Is there any difference a lawyer can make in filing a corporation verses you file it yourself online?

Question

If I were to file the corporation myself, is there anything I should be aware of? Is there anything a Lawyer would be able to do veses doing iot myself?

Thanks for your time

Answer 1

You may want to call your state's "Secretary of State" office usually located in the capital building.  Depending on the company's size, factored a number of ways, you can be advised on most beneficial "filing".  If this is your business and only yourself or a few employed you would more than likely file as "Incorporated".

You can acquire, I am certain, on you state's website the different types of company filings, i.e., Corporation, Incorporated, LLC (Limited Liability Company), etc.  The main "objective" is to insure YOUR personal assets, funds, liability, investments, etc., are not at risk.  It is also advisable to consult and retain, if necessary, an attorney familiar with your type business.

Forming a business may also require other expenses, i.e., workers comp, etc. Insure you have a competent CPA to assist.

Good Luck, former your own business can be gratifying.

Answer 2

You can file yourself and probably save some money.  But that doesn't mean you shouldn't consider using a lawyer.

Here's why.  Filing is only part of what you need to do.  There's a lot of things you need to know in setting up a corporation.  Filing the papers with the secretary of state in whatever state you are in is only part of it.  An important part, but not everything you need to do.

For example, did you know you need to get a Federal Tax ID number?  You don't get that automatically when you file online with the state secretary of state?  Did you know that you need to make a decision whether to select subchapter S tax treatment or not?  That's an important decision that will affect how the corporation is taxed; making the wrong decision could cost you thousands of dollars in taxes in future years if you aren't careful.  A lawyer can help you decide what to do there.  Did you know you need bylaws?  Filing the application online doesn't generate a set of bylaws.  Lawyers can do that.

I'm not saying you must have a lawyer, but I am saying that there's more you need to know about incorporating than simply filling out an online form and it may be helpful to consult a lawyer on some things/issues you may not even know are out there.

Answer 3

I don't know what you mean by "filing"

Do you mean you have a problem with a company and want to file a claim to get your money back?  ... if that is the case, I'd advise doing it yourself at a local small claims court.  A lawyer will just charge you for their time to do everything you can do yourself.  And if you have the proof, you don't need a lawyer.  Just write a statement explaining your side, and then appear in court.  You won't be at a disadvantage... if it's small claims.

If you mean you are someone that is looking to become a company (incorporated), then talk with your accountant rather than a lawyer.