Introduction

Starting a business is exciting—until you realize how many decisions you’re expected to make without a roadmap. From branding to banking to building a team, it’s easy to get caught up in the momentum and overlook what really protects the business long-term: your legal infrastructure.

The truth is that many entrepreneurs don’t fail because their idea didn’t work. They fail because they didn’t take the time to set things up correctly. They built income, not infrastructure. And while income can be fleeting, infrastructure is what sustains and scales a business.

If you're launching or growing a business, here are five legal moves every entrepreneur should make in their first year—before the stakes get higher.

1. Form the Right Legal Entity

Don’t skip this step or rush through it online. The entity you choose—LLC, S Corp, C Corp—affects everything from taxes to liability to how investors view your business. A properly formed entity can protect your personal assets, position you for growth, and help you avoid unnecessary tax burdens. But it has to be done correctly, with a clear operating agreement or bylaws in place—not just a certificate from the state.

2. Get It in Writing

If you’re working with anyone—co-founders, investors, contractors, even friends—put it in writing. Clarity upfront prevents confusion (and litigation) later. Every business relationship should be documented in a contract that outlines rights, responsibilities, and what happens if things change. Don’t wait until there’s a disagreement to start thinking about documentation.

3. Protect Your Brand

Your brand is one of your most valuable assets. The name, logo, and content you’re building equity around should be protected early. This doesn’t mean you have to file a trademark on day one, but it does mean you need to know whether you’re infringing on someone else—and whether you’ll be able to protect your own brand as you grow. Too many entrepreneurs get years into building a business only to realize the name isn't legally theirs.

4. Create a Client or Customer Agreement

Whether you’re selling services or products, your business needs clear terms. A well-drafted client agreement protects your income, limits your liability, and outlines what happens when things don’t go as planned. It also communicates professionalism and builds trust—because real businesses have real policies.

5. Plan for the Business You Want, Not Just the One You Have

Your legal setup should reflect where you're headed, not just where you are. Are you planning to bring on partners? Offer equity? Apply for funding? Build a team? Your agreements, structure, and governance documents should be designed with growth in mind. Don’t wait for success to start acting like a CEO—structure the business like it’s going somewhere from the beginning.

At The Law Offices of Antoinette M. Solomon, we help entrepreneurs build businesses that are legally sound, strategically positioned, and prepared to scale. Whether you’re just getting started or correcting course, our team can help you put the right foundation in place.

Schedule a consultation today and make sure your business is built to last.