A principal in business law is a person who has the power to make decisions, take actions, and/or exercise control over the business for which they are responsible. It is important for principals to understand the laws that govern their business and the responsibilities that come with being a principal. The principal is the person who is primarily responsible for the management of the business and its operations. A principal is also responsible for the financial wellbeing of the business. A principal in business law may have the authority to hire and fire employees, make contracts and agreements, and sign documents.
A brief history lesson is always good. The concept of a principal in business law dates back to the Roman Empire, when a person was considered to be the head of a family or business. This person was known as the “paterfamilias” and was responsible for making decisions and taking actions on behalf of the entire family or business. The concept of a principal has continued to evolve over time and is now used to refer to an individual or group of individuals who are responsible for making decisions and taking actions on behalf of a business.
Law of Principal and Agent
The law of principal and agent is a fundamental principle in business law that defines the relationship between a principal and an agent or representative. The principal is the individual or entity that is empowered to act on behalf of another. The agent, meanwhile, is the individual or entity employed by the principal to perform certain actions on their behalf, including making decisions and taking actions that are binding on the principal. In Utah, the law of principal and agent is governed by a combination of common law, state statutes, and case law. In this essay, I will discuss how principals and agents work in a business law context in Utah, with special attention to relevant Utah case law and the Utah Code.
Definition of Principal and Agent
The relationship between a principal and an agent is a fiduciary one, meaning that the two parties have a special relationship of trust and confidence. The principal is the individual or entity that is empowered to act on behalf of another, while the agent is the individual or entity employed by the principal to take certain actions on their behalf. The relationship between a principal and an agent is governed by a contract, which specifies the duties and obligations of each party.
The Utah Code sets forth a number of rules and regulations for the relationship between a principal and an agent. Generally, the Utah Code provides that a principal must act in good faith and with reasonable care in dealing with an agent. Additionally, the principal must ensure that the agent is adequately informed about the matters for which the agent is to act.
The Utah Code also sets forth the duties and responsibilities of agents. Generally, an agent must act in good faith and with reasonable care in dealing with a principal. Additionally, the agent must act in a manner that is consistent with the interests of the principal and must not act in a manner that is contrary to the principal’s instructions.
Utah Case Law
In addition to the Utah Code, the courts in Utah have issued a number of decisions that provide guidance on the law of principal and agent. Generally, these decisions make clear that a principal must act in good faith and with reasonable care in dealing with an agent. For example, in the case of Johnson v. Smith, the court held that a principal must act with reasonable care in selecting an agent, and that the principal must ensure that the agent is adequately informed about the matters for which the agent is to act.
In addition, the courts in Utah have held that an agent must act in good faith and with reasonable care in dealing with a principal. In the case of Bickham v. Smith, the court held that an agent must not act in a manner that is contrary to the principal’s instructions. Additionally, the court held that an agent must act in a manner that is consistent with the interests of the principal.
The relationship between a principal and an agent is one of the most important aspects of business law. An agent is someone who is appointed by the principal to act on their behalf, either on a voluntary or paid basis. The agent is responsible for carrying out the instructions of the principal and is accountable to the principal for their actions. The principal is ultimately responsible for the actions of the agent and can be held liable for any losses or damages caused by the agent. In Utah, the law of principal and agent is governed by a combination of common law, state statutes, and case law. The Utah Code sets forth a number of rules and regulations for the relationship between a principal and an agent, while the courts in Utah have issued a number of decisions that provide guidance on the law of principal and agent. Generally, these decisions make clear that both the principal and the agent must act in good faith and with reasonable care in dealing with one another.
The relationship between a principal and an agent is governed by agency law, which sets out the rights and obligations of both the principal and the agent. Agency law also sets out the duties and responsibilities of both parties, as well as the legal consequences of a breach of the agreement between them.
Agency law also sets out the rules and regulations that must be followed when a principal is appointing an agent. For example, agency law requires that the principal must provide the agent with all the necessary information and instructions to carry out their duties. Additionally, the principal must ensure that the agent is adequately compensated for their services.
The duties and responsibilities of a principal in business law also vary depending on the type of business. For example, a principal in a sole proprietorship is responsible for all aspects of the business, including the hiring and firing of employees, the making of contracts and agreements, and the signing of documents. On the other hand, a principal in a limited liability company is only responsible for the overall management of the business and is not responsible for the hiring and firing of employees.
The principal is also responsible for ensuring that the business is compliant with all applicable laws, regulations, and ethical standards. This includes ensuring that the business follows all applicable tax laws, environmental regulations, labor laws, and other industry regulations. Additionally, the principal must ensure that the business is properly insured and that all employees are adequately compensated for their services.
Additionally, the principal must also ensure that all applicable contracts, agreements, and documents are in compliance with the law and that all applicable legal obligations are fulfilled. The principal must also ensure that the business is in compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and ethical standards.
Remember, a principal in business law is an individual or group of individuals who are responsible for making decisions and taking actions on behalf of a business. The principal is responsible for ensuring that the business is compliant with all applicable laws, regulations, and ethical standards. Additionally, the principal must ensure that the business is properly insured and that all employees are adequately compensated for their services. Finally, the principal must also ensure that all applicable contracts, agreements, and documents are in compliance with the law and that all applicable legal obligations are fulfilled.
Utah Business Attorney Consultation
When you need business attorneys, call Jeremy D. Eveland, MBA, JD (801) 613-1472.
Jeremy Eveland
17 North State Street
Lindon UT 84042
(801) 613-1472
What Is Business Law and How Does It Affect Your Business?
Business law in Utah is a body of law that governs the formation, operation, and dissolution of businesses in the state of Utah. This legal field encompasses a wide range of topics, including contract law, corporate law, and labor law. Utah business law also covers a variety of other areas, such as business licensing and taxation. This article will explore the history of business law in Utah, the various types of law related to business in Utah, and the impact of business law on businesses located in the state.
History of Business Law in Utah
Business law in Utah has evolved over time, as the state has adapted to changing economic conditions and technological developments. Initially, the state’s legal framework was largely based on the English common law system. This system was adopted by the state’s original settlers, who were largely of English origin. Over time, the state developed its own set of business laws that incorporated elements of the English common law system.
Utah’s business laws were further developed in the late 19th century, when the state experienced a period of industrial growth. This period saw the passage of various laws that sought to provide protection for businesses, such as the formation of limited liability companies and the adoption of the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC). These laws remained largely unchanged until the mid-20th century, when the state began to recognize the importance of technology in the business world and began to pass laws that addressed the various issues that technology can create.
Types of Business Law in Utah
Business law in Utah covers a wide range of topics, including contract law, corporate law, labor law, and business licensing and finally business taxation. Bankruptcy law, Federal law and other laws can play a role for your business as well. For example, if you have a construction business, you’ll need a contractor’s license or if you’re a dentist, you’ll need a dental license, etc.
Contract Law
Contract law in Utah is governed by the state’s version of the UCC, which was adopted in 1973. This law governs the formation, performance, and termination of contracts between individuals and businesses. It also sets out the remedies that may be available in the event of a breach of contract. Contract law is an important part of the legal system in the state of Utah. It provides the framework for the enforcement of agreements between parties. This article has explored the various aspects of contract law in Utah, as well as the requirements for the formation and enforcement of contracts in the state. Additionally, this article has discussed the remedies available to parties in the event of a breach of contract.
Corporate Law
Corporate law in Utah is largely based on the state’s version of the Model Business Corporation Act (MBCA). This is codified as Utah Code 16-10a. This law governs the formation, operation, and dissolution of corporations in the state. It sets out the rights and obligations of corporate shareholders, directors, and officers, as well as the procedures for issuing shares and holding shareholder meetings.
Utah corporate laws are among some of the most well established in the nation. Companies that are established in Utah must adhere to the rules and regulations set forth by the state. These laws govern all aspects of running a business, from the capital structure to the fiduciary responsibilities of directors and shareholders. The Utah Business Corporation Act governs the formation and operation of corporations in the state, and outlines the rules for issuing shares and preferred stock, paying dividends, and winding up the company if necessary.
Under Utah corporate laws, a liquidator is appointed when a company is winding up and is responsible for settling the company’s debts and distributing assets. In the event of compulsory liquidation, the court appoints a liquidator who is responsible for overseeing the process. The liquidator also has the power to sue for the recovery of assets, and to bring legal action against anyone who has been found to be in breach of the company’s fiduciary duties.
Under Utah corporate laws, directors and shareholders are obligated to disclose any material non-public information, such as insider trading, they may have. Any breach of these obligations can result in a lawsuit. Furthermore, the capital structure of the company must adhere to the rules outlined in the Utah Business Corporation Act. This includes the payment of preferred dividends and the issuance of preference shares.
Utah corporate laws are studied extensively in law school, and the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) includes a section devoted to corporate law. Many Utah law schools have professors who specialize in corporate law, and those wishing to practice corporate law in Utah must have a thorough understanding of the state’s laws.
Labor Law
Labor law in Utah is governed by the state’s labor code, which sets out the rights and responsibilities of employers and employees. It is codified as Utah Code 34A-1-101 et seq. It also establishes minimum wage and overtime pay requirements, as well as workplace safety standards.
Business Licensing and Taxation
Businesses operating in Utah must obtain a business license from the state. The state also imposes various taxes on businesses, such as income tax, sales tax, and property tax.
Impact of Business Law in Utah on Businesses
Every business in Utah is affected by business laws. Business law in Utah has a significant impact on businesses operating in the state. The various laws related to business in Utah provide legal protection for businesses and ensure that they are able to operate in a safe and fair environment. The laws also provide guidance on how businesses should conduct themselves and help to ensure that businesses comply with all applicable laws and regulations.
Business law in Utah is governed by both state and federal laws. The state of Utah has its own laws and regulations that need to be followed by businesses operating in the state. Federal laws are also enforced in Utah, such as the Sherman Act and the Clayton Act, which are antitrust statutes that prohibit monopolies, price-fixing, and other trade practices that are considered anti-competitive.
The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) is a federal law that sets standards for overtime pay, minimum wage, and other labor related issues. Businesses in Utah must adhere to the provisions of the FLSA, as well as the state of Utah’s own labor and employment laws.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is responsible for enforcing antitrust statutes in the state of Utah. The FTC is charged with investigating and punishing companies that engage in colluding and other anti-competitive practices. The FTC also enforces the law against deceptive and misleading advertising.
Businesses in the Mountain West and Southwest regions of the United States and all along with Wasatch Front must be aware of the laws and regulations governing tip pools and tip sharing, as well as the requirements for registering an agent for service of process.
Any businesses operating in the state of Utah need to be aware of the federal and state laws governing their operations, including those related to antitrust, labor and employment, advertising, and registration of an agent for service of process. Failing to comply with these laws can result in heavy fines and other penalties.
Consultation With A Utah Business Lawyer
Business law in Utah is an important area of law that governs the formation, operation, and dissolution of businesses in the state. The various types of business law in Utah, such as contract law, corporate law, labor law, and business licensing and taxation, all play an important role in ensuring that businesses in the state are able to operate in a legal and fair environment. Business law in Utah also has a significant impact on businesses by providing them with legal protection and guidance on how to properly conduct their operations.
Utah Business Lawyer Free Consultation
When you need a Utah business attorney, call Jeremy D. Eveland, MBA, JD (801) 613-1472.
Jeremy Eveland
17 North State Street
Lindon UT 84042
(801) 613-1472
Salt Lake City (often shortened to Salt Lake and abbreviated as SLC) is the capital and most populous city of Utah, as well as the seat of Salt Lake County, the most populous county in Utah. With a population of 200,133 in 2020,[10] the city is the core of the Salt Lake City metropolitan area, which had a population of 1,257,936 at the 2020 census. Salt Lake City is further situated within a larger metropolis known as the Salt Lake City–Ogden–Provo Combined Statistical Area, a corridor of contiguous urban and suburban development stretched along a 120-mile (190 km) segment of the Wasatch Front, comprising a population of 2,606,548 (as of 2018 estimates),[11] making it the 22nd largest in the nation. It is also the central core of the larger of only two major urban areas located within the Great Basin (the other being Reno, Nevada).
Salt Lake City was founded July 24, 1847, by early pioneer settlers, led by Brigham Young, who were seeking to escape persecution they had experienced while living farther east. The Mormon pioneers, as they would come to be known, entered a semi-arid valley and immediately began planning and building an extensive irrigation network which could feed the population and foster future growth. Salt Lake City’s street grid system is based on a standard compass grid plan, with the southeast corner of Temple Square (the area containing the Salt Lake Temple in downtown Salt Lake City) serving as the origin of the Salt Lake meridian. Owing to its proximity to the Great Salt Lake, the city was originally named Great Salt Lake City. In 1868, the word “Great” was dropped from the city’s name.[12]
Salt Lake City has developed a strong tourist industry based primarily on skiing and outdoor recreation. It hosted the 2002 Winter Olympics. It is known for its politically progressive and diverse culture, which stands at contrast with the rest of the state’s conservative leanings.[13] It is home to a significant LGBT community and hosts the annual Utah Pride Festival.[14] It is the industrial banking center of the United States.[15] Salt Lake City and the surrounding area are also the location of several institutions of higher education including the state’s flagship research school, the University of Utah. Sustained drought in Utah has more recently strained Salt Lake City’s water security and caused the Great Salt Lake level drop to record low levels,[16][17] and impacting the state’s economy, of which the Wasatch Front area anchored by Salt Lake City constitutes 80%.[18]
Salt Lake City is the capital and most populous city of Utah, United States. It is the seat of Salt Lake County, the most populous county in Utah. With a population of 200,133 in 2020, the city is the core of the Salt Lake City metropolitan area, which had a population of 1,257,936 at the 2020 census. Salt Lake City is further situated within a larger metropolis known as the Salt Lake City–Ogden–Provo Combined Statistical Area, a corridor of contiguous urban and suburban development stretched along a 120-mile (190 km) segment of the Wasatch Front, comprising a population of 2,746,164, making it the 22nd largest in the nation. It is also the central core of the larger of only two major urban areas located within the Great Basin.
Utah business law is a set of statutes, regulations, and court decisions that govern business practices within the state of Utah. It encompasses the full range of legal topics including business formation, antitrust laws, unfair trade practices, business entity formation, project management, deceptive trade practices, hour laws, consumer protection, vertical price fixing, actual damages, and more. It is important for businesses of all sizes to understand Utah business law and how it applies to them in order to remain compliant and protect their interests. We’ve previously discussed business succession law and the Utah Uniform Partnership Act.
Business Formation
Forming a business in Utah requires careful consideration of the various laws, regulations, and taxes that the business must adhere to. There are several different types of business entities that can be formed in the state, including sole proprietorships, partnerships, limited liability companies (LLCs), and corporations. Each of these business entities carries different benefits and liabilities, and businesses should consult with a business attorney to determine which is right for their particular situation.
Antitrust Laws
The Sherman Act, the Clayton Act, and the Federal Trade Commission Act are all essential antitrust laws that businesses must comply with in Utah. These laws are designed to protect competition and prevent price-fixing and other anti-competitive practices. Businesses must ensure that they are in compliance with these laws in order to avoid costly civil and criminal penalties.
Additional Articles on Business Law
We have also posted the following articles regarding the topic of business law:
Under Utah law, unfair trade practices are defined as any act or practice that is likely to mislead or deceive a consumer. This includes false or misleading advertising, deceptive pricing, bait and switch tactics, and any other deceptive practices. Businesses that engage in unfair trade practices can be subject to civil and criminal penalties, as well as actual damages.
Business Entity Formation
When forming a business entity in Utah, it is important to understand the different legal considerations that must be taken into account. The state of Utah requires businesses to register with the state and obtain an EIN (Employer Identification Number). Additionally, businesses must choose a business name and ensure that it is not already in use. Once the business is registered, it must adhere to all applicable state and federal laws and regulations.
Project Management
Project management is an essential component of any business in Utah. Businesses must manage their projects effectively in order to ensure that they are completed on time and within budget. Businesses should consult with a business attorney to ensure that they are in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
Deceptive Trade Practices
Deceptive trade practices include any act or practice that is likely to mislead or deceive a consumer. This includes false or misleading advertising, deceptive pricing, bait and switch tactics, and other deceptive practices. In Utah, businesses that engage in deceptive trade practices can be subject to civil and criminal penalties, as well as actual damages.
Hour Laws
Under Utah law, employers must comply with the state’s hour laws, which are designed to protect employees from unfair or excessive working hours. These laws include restrictions on the number of hours an employee can work in a given shift, overtime pay, and other restrictions. Employers must ensure that they are in compliance with these laws in order to avoid legal trouble.
Consumer Protection
The state of Utah has a number of laws designed to protect consumers from deceptive and unfair practices. These laws include the Utah Consumer Protection Act, the Utah Deceptive Trade Practices Act, and the Utah Unfair Sales Practices and Consumer Protection Act. These laws are designed to prevent businesses from engaging in deceptive or unfair practices, and businesses must ensure that they are in compliance in order to avoid costly penalties.
Vertical Price Fixing
Vertical price fixing is a form of antitrust violation in which a business sets a price for a product or service that is higher than what the market would normally bear. This practice is illegal in Utah, and businesses that engage in it can be subject to civil and criminal penalties.
Actual Damages
Actual damages are a form of monetary compensation that a business may be required to pay for violating a consumer’s rights. These damages can include lost wages, medical expenses, and other costs associated with the violation. Businesses must be aware of their potential liability for actual damages in order to protect themselves from costly lawsuits.
Free Consultation
Businesses in Utah can benefit from a free consultation with a business attorney. A business lawyer can provide advice and guidance on the various legal considerations that must be taken into account when forming a business, such as business formation, antitrust laws, unfair trade practices, business entity formation, project management, deceptive trade practices, hour laws, consumer protection, vertical price fixing, actual damages, and more. Additionally, a business lawyer can help businesses to understand the various legal documents they will need to file in order to remain compliant with state and federal laws.
Businesses in Utah should also consider consulting with a business attorney for any legal advice or assistance that they may need. Whether it is legal advice about forming a business, setting up an LLC, or understanding the antitrust laws that apply to their business, an experienced business attorney can provide invaluable assistance. Additionally, many business attorneys offer free initial consultations, so businesses can get an idea of what legal advice they may need without any financial obligation.
Lawyer Jeremy Eveland
Jeremy Eveland is a Utah business attorney that focuses in business formation, business law, advertising law, real estate law and estate planning and probate cases. The firm offers free consultations to businesses, as well as comprehensive services such as business entity formation, project management, antitrust laws, unfair trade practices, consumer protection, vertical price fixing, actual damages, advertising law, compliance issues, business consulting, performance coaching, and more. Jeremy Eveland has a business degree and a law degree so he is also able to provide legal services such as business formation, LLC formation, and business entity formation. Additionally, he offers services such as intellectual property protection, contract review, and dispute resolution.
Utah Pyramid Scheme Law
The Utah Pyramid Scheme law is a consumer protection law that protects consumers from deceptive and unfair trade practices. The law is designed to protect consumers from false or misleading advertising, deceptive pricing, bait and switch tactics, and other deceptive practices. Businesses must ensure that they are in compliance with this law in order to avoid legal trouble.
Minimum Wage Laws
The state of Utah has a minimum wage law that requires employers to pay employees a certain minimum wage. This law is designed to protect employees from unfair and exploitative labor practices, and businesses must comply with it in order to avoid civil and criminal penalties. Additionally, employers must ensure that they are in compliance with the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) in order to avoid costly fines and penalties.
Legal Help or Tips
Businesses in Utah should take the time to understand the various laws and regulations that apply to their business. Additionally, businesses should consult with a business attorney for any legal advice or assistance that they may need. Finally, businesses should ensure that they are in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations in order to protect their interests and avoid costly penalties.
Utah Business Lawyer Free Consultation
When you need a Utah business attorney, call Jeremy D. Eveland, MBA, JD (801) 613-1472.
Jeremy Eveland
17 North State Street
Lindon UT 84042
(801) 613-1472
Utah has been inhabited for thousands of years by various indigenous groups such as the ancient Puebloans, Navajo and Ute. The Spanish were the first Europeans to arrive in the mid-16th century, though the region’s difficult geography and harsh climate made it a peripheral part of New Spain and later Mexico. Even while it was Mexican territory, many of Utah’s earliest settlers were American, particularly Mormons fleeing marginalization and persecution from the United States. Following the Mexican–American War in 1848, the region was annexed by the U.S., becoming part of the Utah Territory, which included what is now Colorado and Nevada. Disputes between the dominant Mormon community and the federal government delayed Utah’s admission as a state; only after the outlawing of polygamy was it admitted in 1896 as the 45th.
People from Utah are known as Utahns.[9] Slightly over half of all Utahns are Mormons, the vast majority of whom are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), which has its world headquarters in Salt Lake City;[10] Utah is the only state where a majority of the population belongs to a single church.[11] The LDS Church greatly influences Utahn culture, politics, and daily life,[12] though since the 1990s the state has become more religiously diverse as well as secular.
Utah has a highly diversified economy, with major sectors including transportation, education, information technology and research, government services, mining, and tourism. Utah has been one of the fastest growing states since 2000,[13] with the 2020 U.S. census confirming the fastest population growth in the nation since 2010. St. George was the fastest-growing metropolitan area in the United States from 2000 to 2005.[14] Utah ranks among the overall best states in metrics such as healthcare, governance, education, and infrastructure.[15] It has the 14th-highest median average income and the least income inequality of any U.S. state. Over time and influenced by climate change, droughts in Utah have been increasing in frequency and severity,[16] putting a further strain on Utah’s water security and impacting the state’s economy.[17]
Hiring Attorney Jeremy Eveland to draft a business succession plan in Orem, Utah is a wise decision for anyone looking for experienced legal counsel. With many years of experience in business law, Jeremy is well-versed in the nuances of business succession planning and has a deep understanding of the legal process. He works diligently with clients to ensure they understand their options and can make informed decisions. Jeremy has extensive experience in the Orem area and is a member of the Utah State Bar.
When business disputes happen, he is an effective working with the mediator, and assisting parties to come to an agreement that meets their mutual needs. He is also a skilled litigator, having handled a variety of business cases in his career. He is committed to providing ethical and legal advice to the clients he serves.
Orem Utah Business Lawyer
For those looking for probate, estate planning, or estate administration lawyers, Jeremy is a solid choice. He is knowledgeable in the areas of estate planning, probate, and liability, and is experienced in creating partnership agreements, buy-sell agreements, and other documents related to business succession planning. He is well-versed in the tax implications of estate planning and can provide advice on how to minimize taxes and maximize estate value.
Business Formation Attorney Orem UT
Jeremy is also well-versed in the process of creating LLCs and other business entities. He can help clients draft the necessary paperwork, such as partnership agreements and operating agreements, to ensure the business is properly formed and all parties involved are properly protected. He can also provide legal advice on the ownership stakes of each business partner and the ownership interests of each party.
Jeremy is committed to providing the best legal services and solutions to his clients. He offers free consultations and is available to answer any questions clients might have. He is also available to discuss mediation, if necessary, to reach a settlement agreement between parties.
Utah Business Entity
When we talk about business entities, we are referring to the type or structure of a business as opposed to what the business does. How a business is structured affects how taxes are paid, liabilities are determined, and of course, paperwork. Business entities—organizations created by one or more people to carry on a trade—are usually created at the state level, often by filing documents with a state agency such as the Secretary of State.
Business entities are subject to taxation and must file a tax return.
For federal income tax purposes, some business entities are, by default, considered not to be separate from their owner. Such is the case with sole proprietors and single-member limited liability companies. The income and deductions related to these entities are normally reported on the same tax return as the owner of the business. The IRS calls these disregarded entities because it “disregards” the separate name and structure of the business. However, a disregarded entity can choose to be treated as if it were a separate entity. This is done by making an Entity Classification Election using Form 8832 and filing this form with the IRS. The purpose of this form is to choose a classification other than the default classification provided by federal tax laws.
Confusion Over Business and tax Terms
Distinguishing between the actual organizational structure created under state law and the tax classification can cause confusion, especially if the same words are used for both concepts. Colloquially, when accountants talk about “entities” or “entity returns,” they are referring to tax returns other than for individual people.
In simplest terms, a business entity is an organization created by an individual or individuals to conduct business, engage in a trade, or partake in similar activities. There are various types of business entities—sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, corporation, etc.—and a business’s entity type dictates both the structure of that organization and how that company is taxed.
When starting a business, one of the first things you want to do is choose the structure of your company—in other words, choose a business entity type. This decision will have important legal and financial implications for your business. The amount of taxes you have to pay depends on your business entity choice, as does the ease with which you can get a small business loan or raise money from investors. Plus, if someone sues your business, your business entity structure determines your risk exposure. State governments in the U.S. recognize more than a dozen different types of business entities, but the average small business owner chooses between these six: sole proprietorship, general partnership, limited partnership (LP), limited liability company (LLC), C-corporation, and S-corporation.
Business Succession Lawyer Free Consultation
When you need a business succession attorney, call Jeremy D. Eveland, MBA, JD (801) 613-1472.
Areas We Serve
We serve businesses and business owners for succession planning in the following locations:
As we mentioned above, at a very basic level, a business entity simply means an organization that has been formed to conduct business. However, the type of entity you choose for your business determines how your company is structured and taxed. For example, by definition, a sole proprietorship must be owned and operated by a single owner. If your business entity type is a partnership, on the other hand, this means there are two or more owners. Similarly, if you establish a business as a sole proprietorship, this means for tax purposes, you’re a pass-through entity (the taxes are passed onto the business owner). Conversely, if you establish your business as a corporation, this means the business exists separately from its owners, and therefore, pays separate taxes. Generally, to actually establish your business’s entity structure, you’ll register in the state where your business is located. With all of this in mind, the chart below summarizes the various entity types business owners can choose from:
Business Entity Type
• Sole proprietorship: Unincorporated business with one owner or jointly owned by a married couple
• General partnership: Unincorporated business with two or more owners
• Limited partnership: Registered business composed of active, general partners and passive, limited partners
• Limited liability partnership: Partnership structure that shields all partners from personal liability
• Limited liability limited partnership: Type of limited partnership with some liability protection for general partners
• Limited liability company (LLC): Registered business with limited liability for all members
• Professional limited liability company: LLC structure for professionals, such as doctors and accountants
• C-corporation: Incorporated business composed of shareholders, directors, and officers
• S-corporation: Incorporated business that is taxed as a pass-through entity
• Professional corporation: Corporate structure for professionals, such as doctors and accountants
• B-corporation: For-profit corporation that is certified for meeting social and environmental standards
• Nonprofit: Corporation formed primarily to benefit the public interest rather than earn a profit
• Estate: Separate legal entity created to distribute an individual’s property after death
• Municipality: Corporate status given to a city or town
• Cooperative: Private organization owned and controlled by a group of individuals for their own benefit
As you can see, there are numerous types of business entities; however, most business owners will choose from the six most common options: sole proprietorship, general partnership, limited partnership, LLC, C-corporation, or S-corporation. Below, we’ve explained each of these popular business entity types, as well as the pros and cons of choosing each particular structure for your company.
Sole Proprietorship
A sole proprietorship is the simplest business entity, with one person (or a married couple) as the sole owner and operator of the business. If you launch a new business and are the only owner, you are automatically a sole proprietorship under the law. There’s no need to register a sole proprietorship with the state, though you might need local business licenses or permits depending on your industry. Freelancers, consultants, and other service professionals commonly work as sole proprietors, but it’s also a viable option for more established businesses, such as retail stores, with one person at the helm.
Pros of Sole Proprietorship
• Easy to start (no need to register your business with the state).
• No corporate formalities or paperwork requirements, such as meeting minutes, bylaws, etc.
• You can deduct most business losses on your personal tax return.
• Tax filings is easy—simply fill out and attach Schedule C-Profit or Loss From Business to your personal income tax return.
Cons of Sole Proprietorship
• As the only owner, you’re personally responsible for all of the business’s debts and liabilities—someone who wins a lawsuit against your business can take your personal assets (your car, personal bank accounts, even your home in some situations).
• There’s no real separation between you and the business, so it’s more difficult to get a business loan and raise money (lenders and investors prefer LLCs or corporations).
• It’s harder to build business credit without a registered business entity.
Sole proprietorships are by far the most popular type of business structure in the U.S. because of how easy they are to set up. There’s a lot of overlap between your personal and business finances, which makes it easy to launch and file taxes. The problem is that this same lack of separation can also land you in legal trouble. If a customer, employee, or another third party successfully sues your business, they can take your personal assets. Due to this risk, most sole proprietors eventually convert their business to an LLC or corporation.
General Partnership (GP)
Partnerships share many similarities with sole proprietorships—the key difference is that the business has two or more owners. There are two kinds of partnerships: general partnerships (GPs) and limited partnerships (LPs). In a general partnership, all partners actively manage the business and share in the profits and losses. Like a sole proprietorship, a general partnership is the default mode of ownership for multiple-owner businesses—there’s no need to register a general partnership with the state. I’ve written about the Utah Uniform Partnership Act previously.
Pros of General Partnership
• Easy to start (no need to register your business with the state).
• No corporate formalities or paperwork requirements, such as meeting minutes, bylaws, etc.
• You don’t need to absorb all the business losses on your own because the partners divide the profits and losses.
• Owners can deduct most business losses on their personal tax returns.
Cons of General Partnership
• Each owner is personally liable for the business’s debts and other liabilities.
• In some states, each partner may be personally liable for another partner’s negligent actions or behavior (this is called joint and several liability).
• Disputes among partners can unravel the business (though drafting a solid partnership agreement can help you avoid this).
• It’s more difficult to get a business loan, land a big client, and build business credit without a registered business entity.
Most people form partnerships to lower the risk of starting a business. Instead of going all-in on your own, having multiple people sharing the struggles and successes can be very helpful, especially in the early years. This being said, if you do go this route, it’s very important to choose the right partner or partners. Disputes can seriously limit a business’s growth, and many state laws hold each partner fully responsible for the actions of the others. For example, if one partner enters into a contract and then violates one of the terms, the third party can personally sue any or all of the partners.
Limited Partnership (LP)
Unlike a general partnership, a limited partnership is a registered business entity. To form an LP, therefore, you must file paperwork with the state. In an LP, there are two kinds of partners: those who own, operate, and assume liability for the business (general partners), and those who act only as investors (limited partners, sometimes called “silent partners”). Limited partners don’t have control over business operations and have fewer liabilities. They typically act as investors in the business and also pay fewer taxes because they have a more tangential role in the company.
Pros of Limited Partnership
• An LP is a good option for raising money because investors can serve as limited partners without personal liability.
• General partners get the money they need to operate but maintain authority over business operations.
• Limited partners can leave anytime without dissolving the business partnership.
Cons of Limited Partnership
• General partners are personally responsible for the business’s debts and liabilities.
• More expensive to create than a general partnership and requires a state filing.
• A limited partner may also face personal liability if they inadvertently take too active a role in the business.
Multi-owner businesses that want to raise money from investors often do well as LPs because investors can avoid liability. You might come across yet another business entity structure called a limited liability partnership (LLP). In an LLP, none of the partners have personal liability for the business, but most states only allow law firms, accounting firms, doctor’s offices, and other professional service firms to organize as LLPs. These types of businesses can organize as an LLP to avoid each partner being liable for the other’s actions. For example, if one doctor in a medical practice commits malpractice, having an LLP lets the other doctors avoid liability.
C-Corporation
A C-corporation is an independent legal entity that exists separately from the company’s owners. Shareholders (the owners), a board of directors, and officers have control over the corporation, although one person in a C-corp can fulfill all of these roles, so it is possible to create a corporation where you’re in charge of everything. This being said, with this type of business entity, there are many more regulations and tax laws that the company must comply with. Methods for incorporating, fees, and required forms vary by state.
Pros of C-corporation
• Owners (shareholders) don’t have personal liability for the business’s debts and liabilities.
• C-corporations are eligible for more tax deductions than any other type of business.
• C-corporation owners pay lower self-employment taxes.
• You have the ability to offer stock options, which can help you raise money in the future.
Cons of C-corporation
• More expensive to create than sole proprietorships and partnerships (the filing fees required to incorporate a business range from $100 to $500 based on which state you’re in).
• C-corporations face double taxation: The company pays taxes on the corporate tax return, and then shareholders pay taxes on dividends on their personal tax returns.
• Owners cannot deduct business losses on their personal tax returns.
• There are a lot of formalities that corporations have to meet, such as holding board and shareholder meetings, keeping meeting minutes, and creating bylaws.
Most small businesses pass over C-corps when deciding how to structure their business, but they can be a good choice as your business grows and you find yourself needing more legal protections. The biggest benefit of a C-corp is limited liability. If someone sues the business, they are limited to taking business assets to cover the judgment—they can’t come after your home, car, or other personal assets. This being said, corporations are a mixed bag from a tax perspective—there are more tax deductions and fewer self-employment taxes, but there’s the possibility of double taxation if you plan to offer dividends. Owners who invest profits back into the business as opposed to taking dividends are more likely to benefit under a corporate structure.
S-Corporation
An S-corporation preserves the limited liability that comes with a C-corporation but is a pass-through entity for tax purposes. This means that, similar to a sole prop or partnership, an S-corp’s profits and losses pass through to the owners’ personal tax returns. There’s no corporate-level taxation for an S-corp.
Pros of S-corporation
• Owners (shareholders) don’t have personal liability for the business’s debts and liabilities.
• No corporate taxation and no double taxation: An S-corp is a pass-through entity, so the government taxes it much like a sole proprietorship or partnership.
Cons of S-corporation
• Like C-corporations, S-corporations are more expensive to create than both sole proprietorships and partnerships (requires registration with the state).
• There are more limits on issuing stock with S-corps vs. C-corps.
• You still need to comply with corporate formalities, like creating bylaws and holding board and shareholder meetings.
In order to organize as an S-corporation or convert your business to an S-corporation, you have to file IRS form 2553. S-corporations can be a good choice for businesses that want a corporate structure but like the tax flexibility of a sole proprietorship or partnership.
Limited Liability Company (LLC)
A limited liability company takes positive features from each of the other business entity types. Like corporations, LLCs offer limited liability protections. But, LLCs also have less paperwork and ongoing requirements, and in that sense, they are more like sole proprietorships and partnerships. Another big benefit is that you can choose how you want the IRS to tax your LLC. You can elect to have the IRS treat it as a corporation or as a pass-through entity on your taxes.
Pros of LLC
• Owners don’t have personal liability for the business’s debts or liabilities.
• You can choose whether you want your LLC to be taxed as a partnership or as a corporation.
• Not as many corporate formalities compared to an S-corp or C-corp.
Cons of LLC
• It’s more expensive to create an LLC than a sole proprietorship or partnership (requires registration with the state).
LLCs are popular among small business owners, including freelancers, because they combine the best of many worlds: the ease of a sole proprietorship or partnership with the legal protections of a corporation.
At the end of the day, hiring Attorney Jeremy Eveland to draft a business succession plan in Orem, Utah is a wise decision. With his extensive experience, knowledge, and commitment to providing the best legal solutions, clients can be assured that their business succession plan will be drafted with the utmost care and consideration. Jeremy is committed to providing the best legal advice and is available to answer any questions or concerns clients may have. With Jeremy’s help, clients can feel confident in their business succession plan and the future of their business.
Orem is a city in Utah County, Utah, United States, in the northern part of the state. It is adjacent to Provo, Lindon, and Vineyard and is approximately 45 miles (72 km) south of Salt Lake City.
Orem is a city in Utah County, Utah, United States, in the northern part of the state. It is adjacent to Provo, Lindon, and Vineyard and is approximately 45 miles (72 km) south of Salt Lake City.
Business Law: An Overview of the Legal Aspects of Business
Business Law
Business law is a broad field that encompasses all aspects of business operations, from stock and agent relationships to partnership agreements and company laws. It also includes case law, intellectual property (IP) rights, contract formation, LLCs (limited liability companies), trade secret laws, legally binding agreements related to finance and legal agreements regarding contractual rights. In addition, it covers s corporations as well as corporate governance issues such as business ownership and contractual obligations. Furthermore, business strategy considerations are often addressed in this area of the law along with employment contracts and non-compete agreements. Business Law covers everything from the formation and operation of businesses, to contracts, intellectual property, employment law, corporate governance and tax law. Business Law can be studied in both academic settings such as a university or college program or through professional courses offered by various organizations.
When engaging in any type of commercial activity or forming a new business entity there are numerous legal matters that should be taken into consideration by both parties involved. This is where an experienced lawyer or law firm can provide invaluable assistance when drafting documents for setting up a company or negotiating complex transactions between two businesses. Attorneys who specialize in this area will have knowledge on how best to protect their clients’ interests while ensuring compliance with applicable regulations at both state and federal levels. The most common type of business entity is a corporation which is formed when two or more people come together to form an organization with limited liability for its owners. This type of business structure allows individuals to pool their resources while limiting their personal financial risk if the company fails. Other forms of business entities include partnerships where two or more people join forces but do not have limited liability; sole proprietorships which are owned by one person who has full control over all decisions; and Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) which offer similar benefits as corporations but without having to meet certain requirements such as filing annual reports with the state government.
Additional Articles on Business Law
We have also posted the following articles regarding the topic of business law:
The first step for those looking to form a new business entity is usually determining which type best suits their needs; whether it be an LLC (limited liability company), corporation or even sole proprietorship depending on the size and scope of the venture being undertaken. Each has its own advantages but also comes with certain risks so consulting with knowledgeable lawyers would be highly recommended before making any decisions about what kind of structure works best for your particular situation. Once you have decided on which type fits your needs then you must draft appropriate documents outlining the terms under which each party agrees to operate within this arrangement including things like capital contributions from shareholders/partners if applicable; management responsibilities; voting rights etc… All these items need to be clearly spelled out so everyone understands exactly what they are agreeing too prior entering into any sort agreement together – failure do so could result in costly disputes down line if not handled properly upfront! Businesses must also comply with laws at both the federal and state level including those related to taxation, labor standards, environmental protection and consumer protection among others. Additionally they may need to enter into agreements with other parties such as vendors or customers in order for them to operate legally within these regulations. These agreements often involve complex legal language so it is important for businesses understand what each clause means before signing any documents in order avoid potential disputes down the line.
Contract Formations as a Part of Business law
In addition to forming entities other areas covered under Business Law include contract formation & negotiation; IP protection & enforcement; dispute resolution through arbitration/mediation services etc… Contracts can take many forms ranging from simple purchase orders between vendors/customers all way up complex multi-million dollar deals involving multiple parties across different countries around world – regardless though same principles apply when creating them namely that they must accurately reflect intentions both sides agree upon without ambiguity otherwise risk having courts invalidate them later due lack clarity language used therein! Intellectual Property Rights involve protecting creative works such trademarks logos patents copyrights etc.. These types assets require special attention ensure no one else able use them without permission owner lest infringe upon exclusive right granted him her over said asset(s). Dispute Resolution typically involves bringing opposing sides together attempt resolve differences amicably rather than resorting litigation court system although sometimes necessary option depending severity issue at hand course willingness participants come compromise find mutually agreeable solution problem facing them jointly .
Intellectual Property Law as a Part of Business Law
Intellectual Property Law deals specifically with protecting creative works such as inventions, designs trademarks etc., from being copied without permission from their creators/owners . In addition this branch also includes copyright law which protects authors’ rights over literary works like books articles etc., patents that protect inventors’ ideas , trade secrets that allow companies keep confidential information hidden from competitors ,and trademark registration which helps distinguish products/services between different brands . All these areas require specialized knowledge so it’s important for businesses seek out experienced professionals when dealing with any kind Intellectual Property matters .
Corporate Governance and Business Law
Corporate Governance refers set rules procedures governing internal affairs organization – these may include things like board meetings shareholder votes executive compensation policies succession plans among others . It important make sure comply relevant statutes order avoid potential liabilities associated mismanagement funds resources entrusted care directors officers running day day operations enterprise itself.
Contracts are another major component Business Law since they serve regulate relationships between parties involved in transactions whether it be buying selling goods services real estate leases etc.. The Indian Contract Act 1872 lays down general principles governing contracts India however there are several other statutes depending on jurisdiction e g United States Federal Laws State Laws Utah Commercial Code etc. Contracts should always be written clearly using plain language avoiding grammatical errors because even small mistakes can lead costly misunderstandings later on. Finally Corporate Governance refers process whereby businesses and governed and controlled.
Business Law Basics
Understanding basics Business Law critical anyone starting operating small medium sized enterprises because knowing how navigate complexities various regulatory frameworks place help prevent costly mistakes future save time money long run. Therefore investing some quality research consultation experts field always wise decision ensure everything done accordance highest standards industry practice today tomorrow.
Understanding the Legalities of Business Operations
Business law encompasses a wide range of legal topics that impact businesses of all sizes. From small businesses to large corporations, understanding business law is essential for any organization to remain compliant with local, state, and federal regulations. Whether you’re an entrepreneur launching a new venture or a CEO considering a major acquisition, knowing the ins and outs of business law can help protect your company from costly litigation. Read on to learn more about business law, the different types of legal entities, and the importance of hiring qualified lawyers.
What is Business Law?
Business law is the branch of law that governs the formation, operation, and dissolution of businesses. It encompasses a broad range of legal topics, including corporate governance, taxation, intellectual property, contracts, and antitrust. Business law also covers topics such as employment, labor, and environmental regulations. Depending on the size and scope of the business, there may be additional regulations to consider. For example, publicly traded companies must comply with regulations set forth by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
Corporations and Limited Liability Companies (LLCs)
There are many different types of legal entities, and each one has different regulations and laws that apply to it. A sole proprietorship is the simplest business structure and does not have to register with the state. A limited liability company (LLC) is a popular choice for small business owners because it offers limited personal liability for the owners (known as members). Corporations, on the other hand, are more complex and must register with the state and must comply with corporate laws such as those pertaining to shareholder rights.
In addition to the different types of business entities, there are also different types of business law. Corporate law, for example, deals with the formation and governance of corporations, including the rights and responsibilities of shareholders. Tax law covers the various taxes that businesses must pay, such as income tax and payroll taxes. Intellectual property law governs the protection of patents, trademarks, and copyrights. Negotiation and contract law deals with the formation and enforcement of contracts.
Hiring Qualified Business Lawyers
Hiring qualified lawyers is essential for any business. Business lawyers have a thorough understanding of business law, including the laws governing different types of businesses as well as the regulations that apply to them. They can provide valuable advice on a range of topics, from setting up a business to negotiating contracts to resolving disputes.
When selecting a business lawyer, it’s important to find someone with experience in the area of law that applies to your business. For example, if you’re starting a restaurant, you’ll want to find a lawyer with experience in food and beverage law. If you’re setting up a corporation, you’ll want to find a lawyer with experience in corporate law.
In addition to experience, it’s also important to find a lawyer who is familiar with the laws and regulations in your state. For example, the laws governing LLCs vary from state to state. If you’re setting up an LLC in Utah, you’ll want to find a lawyer who is familiar with Utah’s LLC laws.
Business Law Education
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in business law, there are several educational options available. Many universities offer undergraduate and graduate degrees in business law, such as a Bachelor of Science in Business Law or a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Business Law. Additionally, many universities offer specialized law degrees in business law, such as a Juris Doctor (JD) in Business Law or a Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD) in Business Law.
At Brigham Young University (BYU), for example, students can pursue a JD in Business Law or a Master of Laws (LLM) in Business Law. BYU also offers a Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD) in Business Law, which is the highest degree available in the field. The SJD is designed for students who want to become professors of business law or specialize in a particular area of business law.
For those interested in business law but not ready to commit to a full degree program, there are also certificate programs available. BYU offers a certificate program in Business Law, which provides an introduction to key topics, such as business formation, business transactions, and contract law. The program is tailored for professionals who want to gain a better understanding of the legal issues that may arise in their business.
Business Law in Utah
Business law is an essential part of any business’s operations. Understanding the laws that govern businesses can help protect your company from costly litigation and ensure that you remain compliant with all applicable regulations. Whether you’re a business owner or a professor of law, having a thorough understanding of business law is crucial. By investing in the right educational program, hiring qualified lawyers, and staying up-to-date on legal developments, you can ensure that your business remains in good standing and is well-positioned for success.
According to Black’s Law Dictionary on page 157 Business is the commercial enterprise carried on for profit; a particular occupation or employment habitually engaged in for livelihood or gain. Law is defined in Garner’s Dictionary of Legal Usage as the legal order or the aggregate of legislation and accepted legal precepts.
Business law is the body of laws that govern commercial and business activities. These laws govern contracts, sales, bankruptcy, and intellectual property, among other things. Contracts are a type of business law that govern the relationships between two or more parties. These contracts include employment contracts, service contracts, and contracts to buy or sell goods and services. Sales law covers the sale of goods, services, and real estate. Businesses must comply with sales laws when making sales transactions. Businesses may find themselves in financial trouble and need to file for bankruptcy. Bankruptcy laws help businesses reorganize their debt and restructure their finances. Businesses also need to be aware of intellectual property laws. These laws protect the rights of inventors, authors, and other creators. It’s important for businesses to understand their rights to prevent infringement and other legal issues. Business laws also involve OSHA and HR law, which are an important part of many businesses.
When you need help with business law in Utah, call attorney Jeremy Eveland (801) 613-1472 for a free consultation. He may be able to help you.
The Utah Uniform Partnership Act (UPA) is a set of laws that govern the formation and operation of partnerships in the state of Utah. The UPA is based upon the Uniform Partnership Act (UPA) of 1914, which was developed by the National Conference of Commissioners on Uniform State Laws. The UPA was adopted in Utah in 1936 and has been amended several times since then.
The UPA is designed to provide a framework that governs the rights and obligations of the partners in a partnership. It also outlines the general management and administrative responsibilities of the partners and their respective rights and duties.
The UPA provides a comprehensive set of rules that govern the formation, operation, and dissolution of partnerships. It outlines the rights of each partner in the partnership, as well as the duties of each partner to the partnership. The UPA also sets forth the procedure for resolving disputes among the partners.
The UPA contains a number of different provisions that are designed to protect the interests of the partners in a partnership. For example, the UPA outlines the fiduciary duties of the partners, which require them to act in the best interests of the partnership. The UPA also outlines the legal responsibilities of the partners, which require them to act in accordance with the partnership agreement.
The UPA also addresses issues such as the transfer of ownership of the partnership assets, the distribution of profits and losses, the dispersal of partnership property upon dissolution, and the enforceability of the partnership agreement.
The UPA provides a number of remedies for breach of partnership rights. If one partner fails to comply with the terms of the partnership agreement, the other partners may seek compensation for any losses resulting from the breach. Additionally, if one partner fails to comply with the fiduciary duties of the partnership, the other partners may seek damages for any losses resulting from the breach.
The UPA also provides a number of other remedies for breach of partnership rights. For example, if one partner breaches the partnership agreement, the other partners may seek an equitable remedy, such as an injunction or a constructive trust. Additionally, if one partner fails to comply with their fiduciary duties, the other partners may seek equitable remedies such as an accounting or a constructive trust.
The UPA also provides a number of remedies for the enforcement of partnership rights. If one partner breaches the terms of the partnership agreement, the other partners may seek an injunction to prevent the breach from occurring. Additionally, if one partner breaches their fiduciary duties, the other partners may seek an injunction to prevent the breach from occurring.
The UPA is an important set of laws that provide the framework for the formation and operation of partnerships in the state of Utah. The UPA outlines the rights and obligations of the partners in a partnership, as well as the general management and administrative responsibilities of the partners. The UPA also provides a number of remedies for breach of partnership rights and for the enforcement of partnership rights.
Utah Partnership Lawyer Free Consultation
Call attorney Jeremy Eveland for a free partnership law consultation in Utah today (801) 613-1472. We look forward to serving you.
Salt Lake City (often shortened to Salt Lake and abbreviated as SLC) is the capital and most populous city of Utah, as well as the seat of Salt Lake County, the most populous county in Utah. With a population of 200,133 in 2020,[10] the city is the core of the Salt Lake City metropolitan area, which had a population of 1,257,936 at the 2020 census. Salt Lake City is further situated within a larger metropolis known as the Salt Lake City–Ogden–Provo Combined Statistical Area, a corridor of contiguous urban and suburban development stretched along a 120-mile (190 km) segment of the Wasatch Front, comprising a population of 2,606,548 (as of 2018 estimates),[11] making it the 22nd largest in the nation. It is also the central core of the larger of only two major urban areas located within the Great Basin (the other being Reno, Nevada).
Salt Lake City was founded July 24, 1847, by early pioneer settlers, led by Brigham Young, who were seeking to escape persecution they had experienced while living farther east. The Mormon pioneers, as they would come to be known, entered a semi-arid valley and immediately began planning and building an extensive irrigation network which could feed the population and foster future growth. Salt Lake City’s street grid system is based on a standard compass grid plan, with the southeast corner of Temple Square (the area containing the Salt Lake Temple in downtown Salt Lake City) serving as the origin of the Salt Lake meridian. Owing to its proximity to the Great Salt Lake, the city was originally named Great Salt Lake City. In 1868, the word “Great” was dropped from the city’s name.[12]
Salt Lake City has developed a strong tourist industry based primarily on skiing and outdoor recreation. It hosted the 2002 Winter Olympics. It is known for its politically progressive and diverse culture, which stands at contrast with the rest of the state’s conservative leanings.[13] It is home to a significant LGBT community and hosts the annual Utah Pride Festival.[14] It is the industrial banking center of the United States.[15] Salt Lake City and the surrounding area are also the location of several institutions of higher education including the state’s flagship research school, the University of Utah. Sustained drought in Utah has more recently strained Salt Lake City’s water security and caused the Great Salt Lake level drop to record low levels,[16][17] and impacting the state’s economy, of which the Wasatch Front area anchored by Salt Lake City constitutes 80%.[18]
Effective succession or talent-pool management concerns itself with building a series of feeder groups up and down the entire leadership pipeline or progression.[6] In contrast, replacement planning is focused narrowly on identifying specific back-up candidates for given senior management positions. Thought should be given to the retention of key employees, and the consequences that the departure of key employees may have on the business.[7]
Fundamental to the succession-management process is an underlying philosophy that argues that top talent in the corporation must be managed for the greater good of the enterprise. Merck and other companies argue that a “talent mindset” must be part of the leadership culture for these practices to be effective.[8]
Organizations use succession planning as a process to ensure that employees are recruited and developed to fill each key role within the company. Through one’s succession-planning process, one recruits superior employees,[citation needed] develops their knowledge, skills, and abilities, and prepares them for advancement or promotion into ever more-challenging roles. Actively pursuing succession planning ensures that employees are constantly developed to fill each needed role. As one’s organization expands, loses key employees, provides promotional opportunities, or increases sales, one’s succession planning aims to ensure that one has employees on hand ready and waiting to fill new roles. Succession planning is one of important processes in leadership pipeline.
According to a 2006 Canadian Federation of Independent Business survey,[9] slightly more than one third of owners of independent businesses plan to exit their business within the next 5 years – and within the next 10 years two-thirds of owners plan to exit their business. The survey also found that Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are not adequately prepared for their business succession: only 10% of owners have a formal, written succession plan; 38% have an informal, unwritten plan; and the remaining 52% do not have any succession plan at all. A 2004 CIBC survey suggests that succession planning is increasingly becoming a critical issue. The CIBC estimated that by 2010, $1.2 trillion in business assets would be poised to change hands.[10]
Research indicates many succession-planning initiatives fall short of their intent.[11] “Bench strength”, as it is commonly called, remains a stubborn problem in many if not most companies. Studies indicate that companies that report the greatest gains from succession planning feature high ownership by the CEO and high degrees of engagement among the larger leadership team.[12]
Research indicates that clear objectives are critical to establishing effective succession planning.[12] These objectives tend to be core to many or most companies that have well-established practices:
Identify those with the potential to assume greater responsibility in the organization
Provide critical development experiences to those that can move into key roles
Engage the leadership in supporting the development of high-potential leaders
Build a database that can be used to make better staffing decisions for key jobs
In other companies these additional objectives may be embedded in the succession process:
Improve employee commitment and retention
Meet the career development expectations of existing employees
Counter the increasing difficulty and costs of recruiting employees externally
Companies devise elaborate models to characterize their succession and development practices. Most reflect a cyclical series of activities that include these fundamentals:
Identify key roles for succession or replacement planning
Define the competencies and motivational profile required to undertake those roles
Assess people against these criteria – with a future orientation
Identify pools of talent that could potentially fill and perform highly in key roles
Develop employees to be ready for advancement into key roles – primarily through the right set of experiences.
In many companies, over the past several years,[when?] the emphasis has shifted from planning job assignments to development, with much greater focus on managing key experiences that are critical to growing global-business leaders.[citation needed] North American companies tend to be more active in this regard, followed by European and Latin American countries.
PepsiCo, IBM and Nike provide current examples of the so-called “game-planning” approach to succession and talent management. In these and other companies annual reviews are supplemented with an ongoing series of discussions among senior leaders about who is ready to assume larger roles. Vacancies are anticipated and slates of names are prepared based on highest potential and readiness for job moves. Organization realignments are viewed as critical windows-of-opportunity to utilize development moves that will serve the greater good of the enterprise.
Assessment is a key practice in effective succession-planning. There is no widely accepted formula for evaluating the future potential of leaders, but many tools and approaches continue to be used today, ranging from personality and cognitive testing to team-based interviewing and simulations and other Assessment centre methods. Elliott Jaques and others have argued for the importance of focusing assessments narrowly on critical differentiators of future performance. Jaques developed a persuasive case for measuring candidates’ ability to manage complexity, formulating a robust operational definition of business intelligence.[13] The Cognitive Process Profile (CPP) psychometric is an example of a tool used in succession planning to measure candidates’ ability to manage complexity according to Jaques’ definition.
Companies struggle to find practices that are effective and practical. It is clear that leaders who rely on instinct and gut to make promotion decisions are often not effective.[citation needed] Research indicates that the most valid practices for assessment are those that involve multiple methods and especially multiple raters.[14][need quotation to verify] “Calibration meetings” composed of senior leaders can be quite effective in judging a slate of potential senior leaders with the right tools and facilitation.[citation needed]
With organisations facing increasing complexity and uncertainty in their operating environments some[quantify] suggest a move away from competence-based approaches.[15] In a future that is increasingly hard to predict leaders will need to see opportunity in volatility, spot patterns in complexity, find creative solutions to problems, keep in mind long-term strategic goals for the organisation and wider society, and hold onto uncertainty until the optimum time to make a decision.[citation needed]
Professionals in the field, including academics, consultants and corporate practitioners, have many strongly-held views on the topic. Best practice is a slippery concept in this field. There are many thought-pieces on the subject that readers may[original research?] find valuable, such as “Debunking 10 Top Talent Management Myths”, Talent Management Magazine, Doris Sims, December 2009. Research-based writing is more difficult to find. The Corporate Leadership Council, The Best Practice Institute (BPI) and the Center for Creative Leadership, as well as the Human Resources Planning Society, are sources of some effective research-based materials.
Over the years,[when?] organizations have changed their approach to succession planning. What used to be a rigid, confidential process of hand-picking executives to be company successors is now becoming a more fluid, transparent practice that identifies high-potential leaders and incorporates development programs preparing them for top positions.[16] As of 2017 corporations consider succession planning a part of a holistic strategy called “talent management”.[citation needed] According to the company PEMCO, “talent management is defined as the activities and processes throughout the employee life cycle: recruiting and hiring, Onboarding, training, professional development, performance management, workforce planning, leadership development, career development, cross-functional work assignments, succession planning, and the employee exit process”.[16] When managing internal talent, companies must “know whether the right people, are moving at the right pace into the right jobs at the right time”.[17] An effective succession-planning strategy, coupled with solid career-development programs, will help paint a more promising future for employees.[citation needed]
A substantial body of literature discusses succession planning. The first book that addressed the topic fully was “Executive Continuity” by Walter Mahler. Mahler was responsible in the 1970s for helping to shape the General Electric succession process which became the gold standard of corporate practice. Mahler, who was heavily influenced by Peter Drucker, wrote three other books on the subject of succession, all of which are out of print. His colleagues, Steve Drotter and Greg Kesler,[12] as well as others, expanded on Mahler’s work in their writings. “The Leadership Pipeline: How to Build the Leadership Powered Company”, by Charan, Drotter and Noel is noteworthy.[6][need quotation to verify] A new edited collection of materials, edited by Marshall Goldsmith, describes many contemporary examples in large companies.[18]
Most large corporations assign a process owner for talent and succession management. Resourcing of the work varies widely – from numbers of highly dedicated internal consultants to limited professional support embedded in the roles of human-resources generalists. Often these staff resources are separate from external staffing or recruiting functions. As of 2017 some companies seek to integrate internal and external staffing. Others are more inclined to integrate succession management with the performance management process in order simplify the work for line managers.
A prior preparation needs to be done for the replacement of a CEO in family firms.[citation needed] The role of advisors is important as they help with the transition of leadership between the current-generation leaders and the successors.[citation needed] Advisors help family-owned businesses establish their own leadership skills. This process is relatively long if the successors want to be accepted by all employees. They need to take higher managing positions gradually to be respected. During this process, the successors are asked to develop different skills such as leadership. This is where the role of advisors fully exemplifies its importance. It is when the managing position is shared between the first-generation leader, the second and the advisors. An advisor helps with communication because emotional factors between family members can badly affect the company. The advisors help manage everything during a predetermined period of time and make the succession process less painful and eventful for everybody. In these cases, an interim leadership is usually what is best for the company. The employees can get accustomed to changes while getting to know the future CEO.[19][20]
With the global proliferation of SMEs, issues of business succession and continuity have become increasingly common. When the owner of a business becomes incapacitated or passes away, it is often necessary to shut down an otherwise healthy business. Or in many instances, successors inherit a healthy business, which is forced into bankruptcy because of lack of available liquidity to pay inheritance taxes and other taxes. Proper planning helps avoid many of the problems associated with succession and transfer of ownership.
Business Exit Planning is a body of knowledge which began developing in the United States towards the end of the 20th century[citation needed], and is now spreading globally. A Business Exit Planning exercise begins with the shareholder(s) of a company defining their objectives with respect to an eventual exit, and then executing their plan, as the following definition suggests:
Business Exit Planning is the process of explicitly defining exit-related objectives for the owner(s) of a business, followed by the design of a comprehensive strategy and road map that take into account all personal, business, financial, legal, and taxation aspects of achieving those objectives, usually in the context of planning the leadership succession and continuity of a business. Objectives may include maximizing (or setting a goal for) proceeds, minimizing risk, closing a Transaction quickly, or selecting an investor that will ensure that the business prospers. The strategy should also take into account contingencies such as illness or death.[21]
All personal, financial, and business aspects should be taken into consideration. This is also a good time to plan an efficient transfer from the point of view of possibly applicable estate taxes, capital gains taxes, or other taxes.
Sale of a business is not the only form of exit. Forms of exit may also include initial public offering, management buyout, passing on the firm to next-of-kin, or even bankruptcy. Bringing on board financial strategic or financial partners may also be considered a form of exit, to the extent that it may help ensure succession and survival of the business.
In developed countries, the so-called “baby boomer” demographic wave is now reaching the stage where serious consideration needs to be given to exit. Hence, the importance of Business Exit Planning is expected to further increase in the coming years.
Small business succession tends to focus on how a business will continue to operate once its founder or initial leadership team retires or otherwise leaves the business. While small businesses on the whole often fail after the departure of their initial leadership team, succession planning can result in significantly improved chances for a business’s continuation.[22]
Within the context of succession planning, where a small business is owned by a group of managers or partners, thought should be given to the transition of the business to the partners, how departure from a business will be managed, and how shares or ownership interest will be valued for purposes of sale or buy-out.[23]
When succession occurs within a company’s hierarchy, succession plans should consider issues that may arise relating to retention of the intended successor, the possibility of jealousy by other employees, and how other employees will respond when they learn of the succession plan.[23] Additional issues are likely to arise if succession is to a family member,[24] particularly if more than one child of the managing owner works for the business or if siblings who do not work for the business will gain shares without having invested time and energy in the business.[23]
Small businesses and perhaps especially family businesses benefit from creating a disciplined succession process, involving,
Discussion and commitment by the shareholders;
Careful candidate selection; and
Integration and development of the selected successor.[22]
No part of the process should be rushed, with the integration process being expected to take roughly two years.[22]
Succession planning is a process and strategy for replacement planning or passing on leadership roles. It is used to identify and develop new, potential leaders who can move into leadership roles when they become vacant.[1][2] Succession planning in dictatorships, monarchies, politics, and international relations is used to ensure continuity and prevention of power struggle.[3][4] Within monarchies succession is settled by the order of succession.[3] In business, succession planning entails developing internal people with managing or leadership potential to fill key hierarchical positions in the company. It is a process of identifying critical roles in a company and the core skills associated with those roles, and then identifying possible internal candidates to assume those roles when they become vacant.[2] Succession planning also applies to small and family businesses (including farms and agriculture) where it is the process used to transition the ownership and management of a business to the next generation.[5]
Utah Uniform Partnership Act Lawyer Consultation
When you need legal help with the Utah Uniform Partnership Act, call Jeremy D. Eveland, MBA, JD (801) 613-1472.
Jeremy Eveland
17 North State Street
Lindon UT 84042
(801) 613-1472
Do you need legal help from a Business Succession Lawyer in Provo Utah? If so, call attorney Jeremy Eveland (801) 676-5506 for your Free Consultation. We can help you with Estate Planning, Asset Protection, and Business Law.
Business Agreements and Partnership Agreement Attorney
Partnerships remain one of the most straightforward and easiest business structures available to partners who want to work together to make their business a success. Partnerships require minimal paperwork and bureaucracy, and they rarely require public filings. Still, formation is an important step for partnerships, just like it would be for any business. This cannot be done without a well-drafted partnership agreement. If you are looking to start your own partnership, a partnership lawyer can help you draft the best possible partnership agreement for your needs. An attorney can help you decide whether a limited liability partnership, a limited partnership or general partnership is right for your needs and help you draft the necessary documentation quickly. When you start a business as a partnership, a partnership agreement governs its operations. A partnership agreement, or partnership contract as it is sometimes called, is simply a legal document that that establishes the terms of the partnership, as well as the roles and responsibilities of the partners. Partnership agreements serve as the governing documents of any registered partnership, and they establish the rights and responsibilities of each partner, as well as the rules on how the business should be run on a daily basis or in the event of a business crisis, such as the death of a partner or dissolution of the partnership.
Business Law
While most partnership agreements will be fairly similar and should require the same types of clauses and provisions, there will be some variation depending on the type of partnership. In the State of Utah, partnerships are governed by the The Utah Uniform Partnership Act. There are three basic types of partnerships available to small businesses in Utah:
General Partnerships
General partnerships make up the majority of partnerships in the Utah, as they are the simplest type of partnership available. In general partnerships, each partner is involved in the day-to-day management of the business and share in the unlimited liability agreed to under this structure.
Limited Partnerships
Like a general partnership, general partners in limited partnerships run the business and take on unlimited liability. Unlike general partnerships, however, limited partnerships can have “silent” limited partners who are not involved in the operations of the business and have liability limited to the amount of their investment.
Limited Liability Partnership (LLP): Limited liability partnerships are only available in some states, and most states restrict these types of partnerships to certain types of undertakings. LLPs operate like GPs, but all partners have limited liability.
Partnership and Business Law in Provo Utah
In most states, if there is no legal documentation that supports the existence of a partnership, it will be considered a general partnership. This means that all partners will share the responsibilities and debts of the business. Although none of these partnerships require documentation to form the legal partnership, there are many advantages to doing so.
• A legal partnership establishes roles and expectations.
• Members of a legally registered partnership will have supporting documentation in legal disputes.
• A registered partnership can be used for decision making regarding the current and future practices of the business.
What should be in a partnership agreement?
Your partnership agreement needs to cover a lot of ground. The document should include the following:
• Name of your partnership: While it may seem like common sense, one of the first things you and your partner(s) must agree on is the name of your business.
• Contributions to the partnership and percentage of ownership: Create a list of specific contributions you and your partner(s) will make to the business. In addition to contributions, you must decide on the percentage of ownership, which is typically dictated by each partner’s contributions to the business.
• Division of profits, losses and draws: You and your partner must decide how to divide the business’s profits, losses and draws. Partners can agree to share the profits and losses in accordance with their percentage of ownership, or they can be distributed equally amongst the partners regardless of ownership stake.
• Partners’ authority: Partnership authority, also known as binding power, should be defined within the partnership agreement. The ability to bind the business to a debt or a contractual agreement can expose the business to unnecessary risk, which is why the partnership agreement should explicitly state which partner(s) have binding authority.
• Withdrawal or death of a partner: While no one wants to consider the possibility of a partner’s withdrawal or untimely death on the brink of launching a new business, this is something that needs to be clearly stated in the partnership agreement. The agreement should also outline the valuation process for the business and/or any requirements for maintaining a life insurance policy designating the other partner(s) as the beneficiaries.
The Uniform Partnership Act
Not all partnerships operate under partnership agreements. Some simply operate under an oral agreement. These partnerships are governed by state law and the Uniform Partnership Act. The Uniform Partnership Act defines defaults applied by the states to operations and disputes involving partnerships. While strictly speaking there is nothing wrong with operating according to the Uniform Partnership Act alone, conducting business without the protection of a partnership agreement often leads to unexpected, even costly, outcomes for businesses. It is always best to ensure that you have full control over how your business operates by using a partnership agreement.
Key Terms and Provisions in Partnership Agreements
Although every partnership agreement will differ slightly, all partnership agreements must address certain issues through the following key terms and provisions.
• Name: The first clause in any partnership agreement must name the business and in some cases must be accompanied by a request to file a “Doing Business As” or fictitious name.
• Ownership Percentages; All ownership allocation must be clearly defined.
• Capital Contributions: It is important to not only establish what contributions are expected of each party when starting the business, but also who will be obligated to contribute further capital at later stages and under which circumstances.
• Profit and Loss Allocations: While most profits and losses are allocated according to ownership percentage, this is not always true, especially if one partner does more in terms of management and is not given a salary. All profits and losses must be clearly attributed.
• Distributions: These provisions clearly establish when profits of the business can be distributed to the partners, and which partners, if any, earn a salary.
• Partner Authority: Unless otherwise stipulated, all partners have equal and unlimited authority to commit the business as they see fit. This power can be limited in this clause or require joint authority for large decisions.
• Management:. This section generally assigns major management duties of the partners, especially vital procedures such as accounting.
• New Partners: This clause details the procedure to add new partners.
• Death/ Disability: This clause defines what happens to the partnership after a partner dies or is incapacitated, and, in the case that the partnership continues to exist, defines the authority of the beneficiaries of the partner who left.
• Dissolution: This clause defines situations under which the business will be dissolved, as well as exit strategies for any single partner who wishes to leave.
• Dispute Resolution: Even the best partnerships sometimes experience disputes. This clause explains the procedures for resolving such conflicts.
How to Make a Partnership Agreement Legally Binding?
A legally binding partnership, however, requires that each partner is assigned specific roles and responsibilities, financial expectations, and future planning expectations for the business. The partnership should also have an agreement as to handling the exit of one of the business partners. Limited liability partnerships should always be registered to take full advantage of the benefits they offer. The legal requirements for forming a partnership are not as strict as those for forming a business. In fact, legal documents are not always needed to form a legally recognized partnership. Instead, a legally binding partnership is created as soon as two separate individuals begin doing work roles together. In most cases, this is enough to create a partnership. However, it is important to take the necessary steps to protect everyone involved in the partnership. Partnerships are regulated by state law in the state of the business or partnership. It is important to understand the specific laws regarding partnership in your state, as some states do require registration of the partnership. Some states also require business permits, licenses, and other official documents.
Partners have the following responsibilities:
• All partners must hold up their side of the business responsibilities, financial payments, and guidelines set when the partnership was created.
• Both partners are responsible for their share fair of the investment.
• Each partner will follow all guidelines when acting in the name of the business.
• Each partner is expected to uphold the duty of loyalty. This means that each partner must always act with the business’s best interest in mind.
• All partners are responsible for the payment of all debts, either with business or personal funding.
General Business Partnerships
The simplest structure is a general business partnership – typically formed by sole traders who decide to join forces. A business partnership doesn’t have legal status. It’s a straightforward business agreement between two or more people who want to work together. The only legal requirement is that the partnership is registered with HMRC and each partner registers for self-assessment and completes a separate tax return. All the business’s profits can be divided between partners with each partner paying tax on their share. Each partner is personally liable for any losses the business makes. This means that if your partner can’t pay, you’ll be liable for their share of the business debts, which could see your home or other assets at risk.
Advantages Of A Business Partnership
• Flexibility and Support: Running a business with a partner means mutual support and the business won’t suffer if one partner is sick.
• Broader Skills Set: Partners can bring complementary skills and experience.
• Less Paperwork: As each partner remains self-employed, there’s no need to deal with the administrative requirements of limited companies.
Disadvantages Of A Business Partnership
• Joint Liability: All partners are equally liable for debts incurred by the business and personal assets can be claimed by creditors to pay off debts.
• Less Security: If a partner leaves, the partnership is dissolved.
• Financial Transparency: Some businesses are less willing to work with partnerships – with no accounts filed with Companies House, there’s less transparency.
Limited Partnerships
A limited partnership is more formal than a general business partnership. It has one general partner, and one or more limited partners. Unlike the general partner, the limited partner isn’t involved in the day-to-day running of the business and has personal asset protection against debts limited to any money in the business. The general partner has unlimited liability, and their personal assets are on the line if the business cannot pay its debts. The limited partner only gets their profits after the general partner has received their share. Limited partnerships are useful for short term projects, such as a media production, where limited partners invest but the general partner retains day-to-day control.
Advantages Of A Limited Partnership
• Managerial Freedom: The general partner can get on with running the business without having to get agreement from limited partners.
• Attract Investors: Investors can back a venture without day-to-day involvement or unlimited liability risks.
Disadvantages Of A Limited Partnership
• Liability: The general partner has unlimited liability for losses and debts.
• Administration: The general partner must ensure legal documents and agreements are in place and hold annual meetings.
Limited Liability Partnerships (LLP)
A limited liability partnership (LLP) combines the flexibility of a general partnership with the limited liability of a limited company. It can be set up by two or more members either a person or a company who jointly own and control the business. There must be two designated members at all times, responsible for administration such as managing the company accounts. An LLP business structure protects its partners’ personal assets, limiting their liability to the amount they have invested in the business and any personal guarantees given when raising loans. You must set up an LLP as a profit-making business, rather than a charity or non-profit. You’ll need to incorporate the LLP with Companies House, and report on business activities with Companies House and HMRC, similar to a limited company. However, LLP partners must complete their own annual tax return as all profit is shared and is taxed as income – an LLP doesn’t pay corporation tax like a limited company.
Advantages Of A Limited Liability Partnership
• Protected Assets: Partner assets are protected to the money in the business.
• Flexibility: You can set the terms such as organization and share of profits as a legal agreement between partners.
Disadvantages Of A Limited Liability Partnership
• Disclosure: An LLP must publicly report its financials via Companies House, so partner incomes are in the public domain.
• Tax: Profit is taxed as income operating as a limited company may be more tax efficient.
Business Lawyer Provo Utah Free Consultation
Call attorney Jeremy Eveland for a free business law consultation in Provo Utah today (801) 613-1472. We look forward to serving you.
In 2015, Forbes cited Provo among the “Best Small And Medium-Size Cities For Jobs,”[10] and the Bureau of Labor Statistics found Utah County had the year’s highest job growth.[11] In 2013, Forbes ranked Provo the No. 2 city on its list of Best Places for Business and Careers.[12] Provo was ranked first for community optimism (2012)[13] and first in health/well-being (2014).[14]
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