If you are a businessman planning to put up a business or invest in Los Angeles, it is best to get the services of a lawyer to assist you in the intricacies of the corporate world. A lawyer who specializes in business law can help you set up and settle in California’s business capital.

Establishing a business is a complicated process. Initially, you must consider the following factors before starting a business:
•    business goals, location for your business, and your financial situation
•    a list of all the business transactions you need to take, such as hiring a lawyer, establishing a line of credit, and getting business insurance
•    a list of all the pre-opening steps you need to take, including reviewing building codes, obtaining business licenses, and joining professional organizations
Anyone who plans to do business in one of the country’s most dynamic business hubs will require the services of an attorney in many of the transactions that he will conduct.
A start-up businessman must be aware of the following transactions where the skills of an experienced business lawyer will be needed:
A.    Business names, licensing, permits and zoning concerns
A business owner must acquire a new business name, the required licenses and permits, and deal with possible zoning concerns. In this area, you will need a knowledgeable business attorney to handle your concerns.
A business owner should also consider applicable rules and regulations of the state, county and city. The type of license you need will depend on the type of business you are engaged in, the location of your business, and the federal and local laws that govern business in the area.

The following businesses or professions that typically require state licenses are:
1.    contractors and trade workers
2.    doctors, physicians
3.    dentists
4.    lawyers
5.    teachers
6.    accountants
7.    barbers
       Some cities and counties may require permits for businesses like:
1.    construction
2.    equipment operations
3.    seller’s permit

       On the other hand, zoning requirements are determined by the state government which is carried out by a city or county ordinance as an enabling act. Before purchasing land, a business owner must check all the zoning rules in the area to make sure his business complies with restrictions such as height of the building on the property, etc.
B.    Employee issues like hiring, compensation, etc.

State laws generally apply in the advertising of openings, interviewing, hiring, and the actual employment of workers. A business owner must be aware of the following concerns before hiring staff for business:

1.    Avoid discrimination
2.    Observe and respect privacy rights
3.    Obey relevant age regulations
4.    Safeguard against hiring of illegal immigrants

To do this, you must study and consult legal authority on the subject. An attorney who is knowledgeable in business planning can help you in this area of concern.

C.    Insurance

As a business owner, you must protect your new investment against potential risk exposure. There are laws or contractual agreements for certain types of policies for your business and employees which a competent business attorney can help you with.
Some of the types of insurance available for new business include:

•    Business owner’s policy
•    Property insurance
•    General liability insurance
•    Malpractice or professional liability insurance
•    Product liability insurance
•    Business interruption insurance
•    Business vehicle policy
•    Umbrella insurance

On the other hand, these are the types of insurance for owners and employees:
•    Worker’s compensation insurance
•    Health insurance
•    Life insurance
•    Disability insurance
•    Keyman insurance