New Business & Company Formations Legal Advice Our corporate team are experts in advising start-ups and new businesses

At Heald Solicitors in Milton Keynes, we can advise you on the legal steps you need to take to put the right structure in place for your business. We will ensure that no crucial points are left out and help you make the necessary decisions to set up a robust platform for the future.

By going through the right procedures and putting all of the necessary legal documentation in place from the start your business will have the flexibility and strength to deal with issues that may arise as well as a reduced chance of disputes.

A strong legal base will demonstrate to those you deal with that you understand the commercial aspects of running a business and that your enterprise is well run. If in time you choose to apply for finance, restructure, merge or exit a sound legal footing will help show that your business is robust and well-organised

Legal advice for new businesses and start-ups

When you are starting a business, there are a number of ways in which an experienced corporate and commercial solicitor can help you.

One of the first decisions you will have to make is what business structure to choose. Options include operating as a sole trader, in a partnership, or as a limited company. A solicitor will be able to advise you on the implications of each and ensure that the right agreements are in place, such as a partnership or shareholders agreement.

Our team can advise you in respect of a range of legal issues, including the following:

• Business Structure
  We offer advice on setting up the formal structure for your new enterprise, ensuring you start on the right foot.
• Registration
  Let us handle registering your business with Companies House, streamlining your launch process.
• Company Documentation
  We help with drafting essential agreements, such as shareholders’ or partnership agreements, to solidify your business foundation.
• Drafting Contracts
  From terms and conditions for your services to employment contracts, we ensure your contracts are airtight and compliant.
• Licences
  We make sure your business has all the necessary licenses to trade legally, avoiding any operational hiccups.

In addition to choosing a business structure, there are several other key legal considerations to keep in mind:

• Raising Finance
  Securing funding is essential for growth, but it comes with legal ramifications. Understanding contracts, investor agreements, and financial regulations is crucial to ensure compliance and protect your interests.
• Protecting Ideas and Brand
  Intellectual property protection is vital in maintaining your competitive edge. Whether it’s patents, trademarks, or copyrights, securing your innovations and brand identity is essential.
• Employing Staff
  Hiring involves navigating employment laws to avoid potential disputes and liabilities. From drafting contracts to understanding employee rights, legal guidance is invaluable.

If you will be taking on premises, please take independent legal advice before signing a tenancy agreement. A commercial lease can be particularly onerous and it is important to fully understand the implications before signing in particular if the landlord wants to issue you with a “fully repairing lease”, with reference also to the term “dilapidations”. We can also advise you on other more flexible arrangements which may be available and request that break clauses are provided for at regular intervals.

By addressing these key areas with the guidance of a knowledgeable solicitor, you can set a solid legal foundation for your business, potentially making the difference between success and failure.