Fort Myers Business Law Attorneys

Representing Businesses in Cape Coral and Naples

When you start or manage a business, you need someone in your corner who can help you handle the myriad of legal questions, complications, and conflicts that may come your way. Hiring a local firm to represent you ensures you will be served by legal professionals who are familiar with the unique challenges and opportunities that apply to your venture. 

Our team at Lusk, Drasites & Tolisano is proud to have provided trusted, comprehensive representation to local businesses for over 40 years. Our business lawyers in Fort Myers are results-oriented and committed to protecting your interests. We will work to get a complete understanding of you and your mission so that we are aligned on achieving your company’s short- and long-term objectives. From forming a new company to fighting for you in commercial litigation, we will be there to support you every step of the way.

Your business deserves legal representation with a personal touch, so do not hesitate to call our business law attorneys in Fort Myers at (239) 908-4930 or contact us online today. Se habla español.

Business Law Matters We Handle

Our attorneys can assist you with:

Business Formation

Are you ready to start a new business? Before you move forward, you will need to choose the appropriate business structure, also known as a business “entity.” 

Your entity selection will determine:

• How your business is taxed
• How decisions will be made
• How disputes will be resolved
• Your level of personal liability

Depending on your goals and appetite for risk, each entity will have pros and cons. Your choice will affect the big picture of your new company as well as shape its day-to-day operations, so you should always work with a legal professional to review and understand your options. 

Our Fort Myers business law attorneys can help you form a:

• Limited Partnership (LP)
• Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)
• Limited Liability Company (LLC)
• C Corporation
• S Corporation
• Nonprofit

Starting a new business also requires the creation of applicable formation agreements, such as partnership agreements, operating agreements, and shareholder agreements. Our team at Lusk, Drasites & Tolisano can help draft and finalize these foundational contracts and ensure they are consistent with your objectives while complying with all relevant laws. We will then register all of the necessary paperwork with the Florida Department of State to make your new business official.

Contract Drafting & Review

Whenever your company enters a relationship with an employee, independent contractor, another business, or any other third party, you need a legal agreement that defines the relationship and each party’s rights and obligations. Attempting to do business without the safeguards facilitated by contracts can lead to devastating consequences. A strong contract will also include contingencies for what will happen if another party fails to deliver what was promised or otherwise violates a term of the agreement.

Commercial contracts tend to be complex documents that require a complete knowledge of the law. Our legal professionals can help ensure your agreements are clear, in your best interest, and enforceable. 

We can help draft, negotiate, and review many types of commercial contracts, including:

• Business Succession Planning Documents
• Employment Agreements
• Enterprise Service Agreements
• Formation Documents
• Franchise Agreements
• Independent Contractor Agreements
• Joint Venture Agreements
• License Agreements
• Master Service Agreements
• Nondisclosure Agreements
• Property and Equipment Leases
• Purchase Orders
• Real Estate Agreements
• Vendor Service Agreements

Breaches of Contract, Business Disputes, & Commercial Litigation

Businesses depend on contracts to avoid unnecessary conflict and liability whenever possible. Unfortunately, even the soundest contracts may not be enough to prevent a business dispute from arising. In some cases, commercial litigation may be the only path forward, especially when there is a fundamental disagreement over whether a contractual term was met or if a company outright refuses to comply with an existing agreement.

Our Fort Myers business lawyers are ready to represent plaintiffs and defendants in many types of commercial conflicts, including those involving:

• Breaches of Contract
• Intellectual Property Violations
• Violations of Restrictive Covenants

When a contract is breached, the breaching party may be liable for damages. The wronged party typically has the right to sue the breaching party, and they can potentially obtain compensation if they can show a material breach occurred and that they suffered losses as a direct result. The stakes can be enormously high, and a smaller, local business may be in a perilous position if they are up against a large corporation. We are passionate about fighting for the little guy and will always strive to secure a just outcome, no matter the complexity, nature, or scope of the conflict.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Consider When Choosing a Business Structure?

Selecting the proper business structure is foundational for your company’s success. Considerations include the level of control you wish to maintain, liability protection, and tax implications. For instance, an LLC offers flexibility and limited liability protection, whereas a corporation might be beneficial for larger operations or in attracting investors. Local taxes and regulations in Fort Myers also play a role, as they impact operational costs. Consulting with our Fort Myers business law attorneys can ensure that your chosen structure aligns with your business goals and local compliance requirements.

How Can Contracts Help Protect My Business?

Contracts are vital to defining expectations and responsibilities in business relationships. They safeguard against future disputes by clearly outlining terms of service, deliverables, and payment conditions. A well-drafted contract can also specify processes for resolving disputes, thereby avoiding costly litigation. Our team helps craft contracts that are not only legally sound but also tailored to your specific business context, thus providing peace of mind and security for your operations in Fort Myers.

What Is the Process for Resolving Business Disputes?

Business disputes can occur despite the existence of comprehensive agreements. The first step in resolving disputes typically involves negotiation or mediation. If these measures prove insufficient, litigation may be necessary. Our firm is skilled in both negotiation and courtroom advocacy, ensuring that we explore all avenues for a favorable resolution. We pride ourselves on understanding the Fort Myers business landscape, which enables us to provide strategic advice that aligns with local conditions and court expectations.

Contact Our Business Law Attorney in Fort Myers Today

If you're facing a business-related legal matter, don't navigate it alone. Our Fort Myers business lawyer is here to help you safeguard your interests, minimize risk, and find practical legal solutions tailored to your goals. Whether you're forming a new business, managing a dispute, or negotiating a contract, we're here to assist. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first measure toward securing your business's future.

When your business needs a fierce advocate, turn to our Fort Myers business lawyers. Call (239) 908-4930 or contact us online to discuss your needs with us.