Start Your Business on Solid Legal Ground
Expert business entity formation and ongoing legal support for Southern New Jersey entrepreneurs. Choose the right structure and protect your business from day one.
Your Partner in Navigating Business Formation Legalities
Crafting a solid foundation for your entrepreneurial dreams begins with trusted legal guidance, and as a business formation attorney serving Williamstown, we at Flanagan Law specialize in simplifying this complex journey for our clients. With over 30 years of experience, attorney Brian Flanagan offers expert advice on choosing suitable business entities, from LLCs to corporations, ensuring your new venture complies with legal requirements and is set up for success. Our personalized approach guarantees that every client receives the attention they deserve. Ready to embark on your business journey? Contact us today to secure professional guidance and schedule your consultation.
Expert Legal Services
A Legacy of Legal Expertise for South Jersey
At Flanagan Law, LLC, we offer expert legal services to guide you through key life decisions and business ventures. Whether planning your estate or managing real estate, we're here for you:
Estate Planning Services
Protect your legacy with customized wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and more. Our estate planning services ensure your wishes are respected for generations.
Consumer Bankruptcy
Find relief from overwhelming debt with Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy solutions. Our team provides compassionate guidance to help you regain financial stability.
Legal Guardianship
Ensure your loved ones are cared for with personalized guardianship services. We guide you through the process of appointing a guardian with clarity and compassion.
Real Estate Law
Whether buying, selling, or leasing, our real estate law services offer expert guidance to ensure smooth transactions and resolve property disputes efficiently.
Business Formation
Set your business up for success with tailored advice on entity selection, operating agreements, and partnership structures. Start strong with expert legal support.
Don't know what you're looking for? Get a free consultation today!
Business Formation Services
Starting a business is exciting—but choosing the wrong entity structure can cost you thousands in taxes and expose you to unnecessary liability. We help entrepreneurs make informed decisions and handle all the legal details.
LLC Formation
Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) are the most popular business structure for small businesses and startups. They offer liability protection, tax flexibility, and operational simplicity.
What We Do:
- Evaluate whether an LLC is right for your business
- File Articles of Organization with New Jersey
- Draft customized Operating Agreements
- Obtain your Federal EIN
- Advise on tax elections and structure
Benefits of an LLC:
- Personal asset protection from business debts
- Pass-through taxation (no double taxation)
- Flexible management structure
- Less formality than corporations
- Credibility with customers and vendors
Who Needs This:
Solo entrepreneurs, small business owners, partnerships, and startups seeking liability protection with tax flexibility.
Corporation Formation
Corporations offer the strongest liability protection and are ideal for businesses seeking outside investment or planning significant growth.
What We Do:
- Determine whether S-Corp or C-Corp is best for you
- File Articles of Incorporation
- Draft corporate bylaws
- Issue stock certificates
- Advise on corporate governance and compliance
Types of Corporations:
- S-Corporation: Pass-through taxation, limited to 100 shareholders
- C-Corporation: Separate tax entity, unlimited shareholders, preferred by investors
Who Needs This:
Businesses seeking outside investment, planning significant growth, or needing maximum liability protection.
Partnership Agreements
Going into business with a partner? A solid partnership agreement prevents disputes and protects everyone's interests.
What We Do:
- Draft comprehensive partnership agreements
- Define ownership percentages and profit distribution
- Establish decision-making authority
- Create buy-sell provisions and exit strategies
- Address dispute resolution procedures
Types of Partnerships:
- General Partnerships
- Limited Partnerships (LP)
- Limited Liability Partnerships (LLP)
Who Needs This:
Any business with multiple owners who want to prevent future disputes and clarify roles, responsibilities, and ownership.
Business Contracts
Every business needs solid contracts to protect its interests. We draft and review contracts for various business needs.
What We Do:
- Vendor and supplier agreements
- Customer contracts and terms of service
- Independent contractor agreements
- Non-disclosure agreements (NDAs)
- Non-compete agreements
- Employment agreements
Who Needs This:
Any business that works with vendors, contractors, employees, or customers.
Ongoing Business Legal Support
Business legal needs don't end after formation. We provide ongoing counsel as your business grows and evolves.
What We Do:
- Contract review and negotiation
- Business dispute resolution
- Compliance advice
- Entity restructuring
- Buy-sell agreements
- General business counsel
Who Needs This:
Established businesses that need reliable legal guidance without hiring a full-time attorney.
Choosing the right business entity
LLC vs. Corporation: Which Is Right for You?
The right business structure depends on your specific situation, goals, and needs. Here's a quick comparison:
LLC (Limited Liability Company)
Best For:
- Small businesses and startups
- Solo entrepreneurs
- Businesses not seeking outside investment
- Those who want simplicity and flexibility
Pros:
✓ Simple to form and maintain
✓ Pass-through taxation (no double taxation)
✓ Flexible management structure
✓ Personal liability protection
✓ Less paperwork and formality
Cons:
✗ May be harder to raise outside capital
✗ Self-employment taxes on all profits
Corporation (S-Corp or C-Corp)
Best For:
- Businesses seeking outside investment
- Companies planning significant growth
- Those who want maximum liability protection
- Businesses with multiple shareholders
Pros:
✓ Strongest liability protection
✓ Easier to raise capital and attract investors
✓ Perpetual existence (survives owner changes)
✓ Potential tax advantages (S-Corp)
✓ Stock options for employees
Cons:
✗ More complex and formal requirements
✗ More expensive to maintain
✗ Double taxation (C-Corp)
✗ More paperwork and compliance
Still Not Sure?
Schedule a consultation with Brian. We'll discuss your business goals, tax situation, and growth plans to recommend the best structure for you.
the business formation process
How We Help You Start Your Business
We guide you through each step of the business formation process to ensure a smooth and successful start. Here's what you can expect:
Consultation
We discuss your business concept, goals, ownership structure, and tax situation to determine the best entity type.
Entity Selection
Based on your needs, we recommend an LLC, S-Corp, C-Corp, or partnership structure.
Formation Documents
We prepare and file all necessary formation documents with the State of New Jersey.
Operating Documents
We draft your Operating Agreement (LLC) or Bylaws (Corporation) and any partnership agreements.
Compliance Setup
We help you obtain your Federal EIN, advise on tax elections, and ensure you understand ongoing compliance requirements.
Timeline: Most business formations are completed within 2-3 weeks.
WHY proper business formation matters
Don't Risk Your Business with DIY Formation
Online formation services might seem convenient, but they often leave critical gaps that can cost you later.
Common DIY Mistakes:
✗ Choosing the wrong entity type for your tax situation
✗ Generic operating agreements that don't protect you
✗ Missing important tax elections
✗ Inadequate liability protection
✗ Partnership disputes due to unclear agreements
✗ Compliance failures that lead to penalties
What You Get with Flanagan Law:
✓ Personalized advice on the best entity for YOUR situation
✓ Customized operating agreements and bylaws
✓ Tax planning and election guidance
✓ Maximum liability protection
✓ Clear partnership terms that prevent disputes
✓ Ongoing support as your business grows
ongoing business legal needs
We're Here Beyond Formation
Starting your business is just the beginning. As you grow, you'll face new legal challenges and opportunities. Flanagan Law provides ongoing support, including:
- Contract drafting and review
- Vendor and customer agreements
- Employment matters
- Dispute resolution
- Business expansion and restructuring
- Compliance guidance
- Buy-sell agreements
- Exit planning
Think of us as your outside general counsel—available when you need legal guidance without the cost of a full-time attorney.
What Our Clients Say
Real Stories of Trusted Legal Support
Our clients share their experiences with Flanagan Law, LLC. From estate planning to bankruptcy, discover how we’ve helped individuals and families secure peace of mind and resolve challenges.
Where Can I Find a Trusted Business Formation Attorney in Williamstown?
Starting Your Business
Frequently Asked Questions
Starting a business involves key decisions—let us guide you. Find answers to common business formation questions here:
How much does it cost to form an LLC or corporation?
Formation costs vary based on entity type and complexity. New Jersey charges filing fees ($125 for LLC, $125 for corporation), plus our legal fees for document preparation and filing. We provide transparent pricing upfront during your consultation. While DIY services may seem cheaper, the cost of mistakes can far exceed the savings.
How long does business formation take?
Most formations are completed within 2-3 weeks. The State of New Jersey typically processes filings within 5-10 business days. We can expedite if needed for an additional fee.
Do I need an Operating Agreement or Bylaws?
Yes! While New Jersey doesn't legally require these documents, they're essential for protecting your business and preventing disputes. Operating Agreements (for LLCs) and Bylaws (for corporations) establish ownership, management structure, decision-making authority, and procedures for handling disputes or changes in ownership.
What's the difference between an S-Corp and C-Corp?
Both are corporations, but they're taxed differently. S-Corps have pass-through taxation (like LLCs), avoiding double taxation, but are limited to 100 shareholders and have ownership restrictions. C-Corps are taxed as separate entities (double taxation) but have no ownership restrictions and are preferred by investors. We'll help you choose based on your specific situation.
Can I change my business entity type later?
Yes, but it can be complicated and costly. It's much better to choose the right structure from the start. If your business circumstances change significantly, we can help you restructure when necessary.
Do I need a business attorney if I'm a solo entrepreneur?
Absolutely. Even solo entrepreneurs need proper entity formation, liability protection, and solid contracts. The cost of an attorney is minimal compared to the financial and legal risks of operating without proper structure and documentation.
expert Business formation services
Ready to Start Your Business the Right Way?
Schedule your business formation consultation today.
Contact Information
Flanagan Law, LLC
1120 South Main Street, Suite A
Williamstown, NJ 08094
Phone: (856) 629-5000
Email: info@flanaganlawnj.com
Proudly Serving Gloucester, Salem, Cumberland, Camden, and Atlantic Counties
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Contact Flanagan Law
Since 1995, we’ve helped clients with estate planning, real estate, and more.