Springfield Business Formation Attorneys

Supporting Southwest Missouri Companies in Business Formation & Organization

Neale & Newman, L.L.P.'s Springfield-based business and commercial law attorneys handle business formation and business organization for limited liability companies (LLC) and other types of companies, including:

• Subchapter S corporations
• Closely held businesses
• Joint ventures
• Family and other partnerships

We also handle reorganizations and corporate governance issues, including directors’ and officers’ liability. This includes trademark and copyright issues. We also help with employment issues and with buying, selling, and leasing real estate.

Ready to take the next step? Contact a Springfield business formation attorney now to schedule a consultation. Call us at (417) 670-2520 or reach out online to get started.

Business Formation Areas We Serve

At Neale & Newman, our business formation attorneys provide comprehensive legal services to ensure your business is structured properly, operates smoothly, and is protected in every facet of its operation. We serve clients across a variety of critical areas including:

• Business contracts
• Business disputes
• Buying and selling businesses

Filing for Business Formation in Missouri

One of the most important steps in business formation is to file the appropriate documents with the state. Missouri requires businesses to file certain forms and pay applicable fees depending on the entity type. Springfield business formation lawyers can assist you with the filing process and ensure compliance with state laws.

1. Articles of Incorporation or Organization

For corporations, the formation process begins with filing Articles of Incorporation with the Missouri Secretary of State. For LLCs, the equivalent document is the Articles of Organization. These documents outline the basic details of your business, including its name, address, and management structure. Our Springfield business formation attorneys can prepare and file these documents, making sure all necessary information is accurately included.

2. Operating Agreement or Bylaws

Although not always required by Missouri law, it is strongly recommended that LLCs and corporations create an operating agreement or bylaws. These internal documents establish the rules and procedures for the management and operation of your business. Having clear, written guidelines helps avoid conflicts among owners or shareholders and ensures that the business operates smoothly.

3. Employer Identification Number (EIN)

Most businesses are required to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. The EIN is a unique identifier for your business and is necessary for tax purposes, hiring employees, and opening a business bank account. We can help you obtain your EIN and ensure that it is used properly.

4. State and Local Licensing

In addition to state-level filings, many businesses must obtain local licenses or permits to operate in specific cities or counties. Depending on your industry, you may need additional approvals from regulatory agencies.

5. Compliance with State Regulations

Missouri has various regulatory requirements that businesses must follow. For example, certain businesses must file annual reports with the Secretary of State, maintain certain records, or adhere to industry-specific regulations. Working with our Springfield business formation attorneys ensures that your business stays compliant with these requirements and avoids penalties.

Empowering Women & Minority Business Owners

If you are a woman or minority looking to start a business, you likely qualify for certain preferences under Missouri law when it comes to doing business with the state. Women Business Enterprises (WBE) and Minority Business Enterprises (MBE) benefit from these preferences when competing for government contracts.

Non-Profit? Tax Exempt? We Can Help!

We handle business organizations for non-profit and tax-exempt entities. This includes 501(c) organizations, homeowners’ associations, condominium property owners’ associations, trade associations and the like. We can help you with employment issues and buying or leasing a building.

We want to help your business get a good start. By doing so, we hope to develop an attorney-client relationship that will last into the future. We are a general service law firm that can handle all your business and commercial law needs while helping you to avoid legal conflicts.