Business Law

Business and commercial law lies at the heart of the law practice of Noriega & Associates.  We assist all types and sizes of business with their initial and daily legal needs, whether the business is just starting out, growing and expanding, or winding up operations.  Our lawyers have a great deal of experience with oil and gas companies, real estate and construction issues, and can assist in negotiating leases, sales and acquisitions.  We are available to serve as corporate counsel throughout all phases of the existence of a business.

Formation of Business Entities

An initial decision in starting a business is determining what type of entity to operate your business in.  This decision is significant, because different corporate forms have vastly different implications with respect to:

• The amount of taxes paid by the company and its individual owners
• Liability of the company and personal liability of its owners and officers for acts of the company or its employees
• Ownership, management and control
• Change of ownership or change of activities the company engages in
• Winding up or dissolution

Partnerships and corporations are the traditional forms available for businesses.  Advice and consultation from an experienced business attorney is essential to deciding upon the best form for a new business.  The main forms available to California businesses include:

• Sole Proprietorship
• C Corporation
• S Corporation
• Limited Liability Company
• General Partnership
• Limited Partnership

Our background and experience enables us to guide our clients in determining which form to choose.  Further, we can prepare and file the necessary legal documents required to establish the new business entity.  We can then continue to assist in maintaining the entity in compliance with government recordkeeping and reporting requirements.  Establishing the entity correctly from the start will help minimize any troubles and avoid potential disputes in the future.

Contracts and other Business and Commercial Transactions

From purchasing property and equipment to hiring employees to making sales, the contract is the basic tool present in nearly all agreements and transactions.  Having contracts drafted or reviewed by competent legal counsel helps to ensure that your rights and interests are protected at the time of the transaction and in the event of a dispute arising later on.  We can assist in negotiating, drafting and reviewing contracts, including contracts related to the purchase and sale of equipment and property, employment contracts, and contracts between merchants.

Seek Experienced Business Counsel

For advice and assistance in Central California and Southern California establishing and managing a business, including negotiating transactions and preparing or reviewing any contracts or other legal documents, contact the Bakersfield office of Noriega & Associates to speak with one of our experienced business attorneys.