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You learned in law school that you should establish a business entity for your new solo law firm, but which one is best? Which business entities are permitted under the Rules Regulating The Florida Bar? What are the pros and cons of each option? These are serious questions. Fortunately, we have the basic information you need to make your decision.
Corporate Creations International, Inc. is a Florida company that provides incorporating services and is a Florida Bar member benefit. It can help you make your decision. A great place to start is reviewing an overview of the options available to you here.
Next, watch this video by Frank A. Rodriguez, Founder, Chairman and Chief Legal Officer for Corporate Creations International, Inc.
Once you have selected your business entity structure, you have to select a firm name. You have undoubtedly put some thought into this decision. However, does your favorite law firm name comply with the Rules Regulating The Florida Bar? Below are some Florida Bar opinions relating to the naming of law firms that you should review before selecting that perfect firm name.
OPINION 76-42, April 12, 1978, A law firm that is merging with a sole practitioner may continue to list deceased partners on its letterhead and may also indicate on the letterhead the name of the firm prior to the merger.
OPINION 76-11, December 19, 1977, It is improper for attorneys who share office space and secretarial services to hold themselves out as a partnership when they are not partners.
OPINION 86-1, April 1, 1986, Committee opinions disapproving use of the term “Associates” in the name of a law firm are withdrawn in light of the Florida Supreme Court decision permitting such use.
OPINION 68-58, January 17, 1969, A professional association that includes the designations “Professional Association,” “P.A.,” or “Chartered” in the firm name gives clients adequate notice of its corporate form. If the corporation operates under a fictitious name, it is sufficient notice if the client is informed at the outset of the retainer that the firm is a professional association.
Now you have your corporate structure and the perfect law firm name. Next, we suggest that you review the Rules Regulating The Florida Bar again to confirm there are not lingering issues out there about which you are unaware.
