Pam Stevens, Esq. Attorney, Seder & Chandler, LLP
WORCESTER – At the Woostapreneurs Forum, Pam Stevens, Esq. Attorney, Seder & Chandler, LLP tackled the many legal issues that can cause significant problems for start-up businesses. Her session provided tips for new businesses to avoid legal pitfalls, a few of which are highlighted below.
“You need to have some money set aside when starting a business. For the privilege of having a corporate entity – even if you don’t make any money – the Department of Revenue still takes $456 annually.”
“Should you file a ‘doing business as’ certificate? If you plan to name your business other than something with your legal name in it [as a sole proprietor], such a certificate is needed from the City Clerk’s Office in Worcester. The certificate is good for five years and costs about $50.”
“Go to the Secretary of State’s corporations division. There’s a database in there that will tell you if there is another entity that has your business name already. Do a Google search as well.”
