CORPORATE AND BUSINESS ATTORNEYS
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Practice Areas
ENTITY MAINTENANCE
Corporate and business law covers the legal framework governing how businesses are formed, operated, and dissolved in Florida. Services include entity formation, contract drafting and review, employment law matters, regulatory compliance, and business dispute resolution. Florida businesses are required to file annual reports with the Florida Secretary of State and maintain accurate corporate records including minutes, stock ledgers, and registered agent designations — failure to meet these requirements can result in administrative dissolution. McFarland Gould Law Firm provides ongoing corporate counsel to Tampa Bay businesses through an entity maintenance program that handles annual filings, minute book upkeep, and compliance reviews. The firm also advises on employment matters including non-compete agreements, wrongful termination claims, age and disability discrimination, and employee benefits. Free initial consultations are available across six office locations in Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Pasco counties. Call 727-461-1111.
Senior Partner Gary W. Lyons provides ongoing corporate counsel to Tampa Bay businesses, drawing on over 30 years of Florida business law experience.
The Entity Maintenance Program at McFarland, Gould, Lyons, Sullivan & Hogan, P.A. (“MGLSH”) keeps client entities in good standing year-round, handling annual report filings, registered agent updates, minute book maintenance, and compliance reviews.
The following services are provided to participating clients:
*In the event your business entity fails to comply with the current legal requirements, you will be billed additional fees for legal services required in order to prepare all documents necessary for legal compliance based upon the current hourly rate for such services.
Frequently Asked Questions
What business law services does McFarland Gould provide?
Our corporate and business attorneys assist with business formation, drafting and reviewing contracts, partnership and shareholder agreements, business acquisitions and sales, non-compete agreements, and resolving disputes between business partners or with third parties. We serve businesses of all sizes throughout Tampa Bay.
What is the best business structure for my company in Florida?
The right structure depends on factors including the number of owners, desired liability protection, tax considerations, and long-term goals. Common options include sole proprietorships, limited liability companies, S-corporations, and C-corporations. An attorney can review your specific situation and help you choose and properly set up the structure that best fits your needs.
What should a strong business contract include?
A well-drafted contract should clearly identify the parties, describe the services or goods being exchanged, set payment terms, address how disputes will be resolved, specify what happens if a party fails to perform, and include appropriate indemnification and limitation of liability provisions. Vague or missing terms are among the most common causes of business disputes.
What happens if someone breaches a business contract?
If another party fails to fulfill its obligations under a contract, you may have a claim for breach of contract. Available remedies can include compensatory damages for your financial losses, specific performance requiring the other party to complete what was promised, or contract rescission. The appropriate remedy depends on the circumstances and the terms of your agreement.
How do I protect my business from a departing employee or partner?
Properly drafted non-compete, non-solicitation, and confidentiality agreements can help protect business relationships, trade secrets, and client lists when an employee or partner leaves. Florida courts enforce these agreements when they are reasonable in scope, duration, and geographic area. An attorney can draft or review these agreements to make them enforceable under current Florida law.
When should a business owner consult an attorney?
Engaging an attorney before problems arise can help you avoid costly mistakes. Key moments include forming a business, entering a significant contract, bringing in a partner or investor, buying or selling a business, and when facing a dispute or threatened lawsuit. Early legal guidance is almost always more cost-effective than resolving problems after they escalate.
STEPS TO GET STARTED
STEP 1
CONSULTATION
Have a case and seeking legal representation? Contact us to set up a consultation.
STEP 2
SIGN UP
We have a quick and easy sign up process. Once you sign up for representation, we take care of the rest.
STEP 3
REPRESENT
We go to battle for you. Our team of powerhouse attorneys will get to work and update you regularly on your case.
LOCATIONS
Main Office
1659 Achieva Way
Suite 128
Dunedin Florida 34698
Suite 128
Dunedin Florida 34698
St. Petersburg
260 1st Ave S
Saint Petersburg, FL
Wesley Chapel
28210 Paseo Dr
Suite 190
Wesley Chapel, FL
New Port Richey
6230 Lafayette St
New Port Richey, FL
South Tampa
1646 W Snow Ave
Tampa, FL
North Tampa
6944 W Linebaugh Ave
Suite 102
Tampa, FL
