Best Investment & Business Structuring Lawyers in Fort Lauderdale

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Founded in 1891
1,287 people in their team
English
For 130 years, Baker Donelson has built a reputation for achieving results for our clients on a wide range of legal matters. While providing legal services is our focus, it is how we deliver them that sets us apart. Our goal is to provide clients with more than what they have come to expect from a...
Greenberg Traurig, LLP.
Fort Lauderdale, United States

Founded in 1967
2,300 people in their team
English
Five decades ago, while at lunch in a South Florida deli, attorneys Larry J. Hoffman, Mel Greenberg, and Robert Traurig saw an opportunity to establish a new breed of law firm for South Florida; a firm that mirrored a New York style firm. In 1967, they founded the law firm Greenberg Traurig...
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About Investment & Business Structuring Law in Fort Lauderdale, United States

Investment and business structuring law governs how a business is formed, operated, funded, and dissolved. In Fort Lauderdale, this includes choosing the right entity type, drafting governance documents, addressing investor rights, and ensuring compliance with state and local rules. The Florida statutes create the framework, while local authorities handle licensing and business operations in Broward County and the City of Fort Lauderdale.

Key concerns include entity formation, ownership structures, management control, transfer of interests, and ongoing requirements such as annual reports and registered agent updates. Lawyers in this field help align legal structures with financial goals, tax planning, and risk management. This area also covers securities considerations when raising capital from investors, including exemptions and disclosures required by law.

For residents of Fort Lauderdale, practical considerations also include navigating Broward County and City of Fort Lauderdale requirements, and coordinating state level statutes with local business licenses and permits. Working with a qualified attorney can help you avoid common pitfalls in multi-party deals and cross border arrangements.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

  • Starting a Florida LLC to acquire and operate a Fort Lauderdale real estate project with multiple investors requires an operating agreement and clear equity allocations. A lawyer can draft the document to prevent disputes later and ensure compliance with Chapter 605 of the Florida Statutes.
  • You plan a joint venture for a marina development or a commercial property in Broward County. A lawyer can structure the investment, draft a comprehensive partnership or operating agreement, and handle securities law considerations if outside investors participate.
  • You are converting a sole proprietorship into a formal entity due to growth or asset protection concerns. An attorney can ensure proper formation, seamless tax planning, and correct designation of ownership interests.
  • You anticipate issuing securities to local investors in Fort Lauderdale. A legal advisor can determine exemptions under Florida Statutes Chapter 517 and prepare necessary disclosures to avoid state securities violations.
  • You need to dissolve or liquidate a Florida business, or you must reorganize due to debt or merger. A lawyer can manage filings, creditor relationships, and compliance with dissolution procedures under Chapter 605 or Chapter 607 as applicable.
  • You operate in Fort Lauderdale with a complex multi jurisdiction ownership structure. An attorney can coordinate Florida entity formation with any federal and international considerations and ensure proper cross border compliance.

Local Laws Overview

Florida law covers how business entities are formed, governed, and dissolved. Entities like LLCs, corporations, and partnerships each have dedicated statutory chapters, and securities offerings are regulated to protect investors. Below are the core statutory frameworks relevant to Fort Lauderdale business structuring.

  • Florida LLCs are governed by Chapter 605, Florida Statutes. This chapter covers formation, management, member rights, and dissolution of limited liability companies in Florida.
  • Florida Corporations are governed by Chapter 607, Florida Statutes. This chapter addresses corporate formation, governance, fiduciary duties, mergers, and dissolution of corporations in Florida.
  • Florida Partnerships are governed by Chapter 620, Florida Statutes. This chapter includes the Revised Uniform Partnership Act provisions for partnerships formed in Florida.
  • Securities offerings in Florida are governed by Chapter 517, Florida Statutes. This includes exemptions, antifraud provisions, and registration requirements for securities offerings in the state.
The Florida Revised Uniform Partnership Act, Chapter 620, governs formation, operation, and dissolution of partnerships in Florida.

Source: Chapter 620 - Florida Statutes

The Florida Business Corporation Act, Chapter 607, regulates corporate governance and transactions for Florida corporations.

Source: Chapter 607 - Florida Statutes

The Florida Limited Liability Company Act, Chapter 605, sets out formation and governance rules for Florida LLCs.

Source: Chapter 605 - Florida Statutes

For local administration and business licensing in Fort Lauderdale, the City requires a Business Tax Receipt and compliance with local licensing rules. Contact local authorities for the latest requirements before commencing operations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is investment and business structuring law in Fort Lauderdale?

It covers entity formation, governance, funding, and regulatory compliance for businesses in Florida and Broward County. It also includes securities, tax, and cross jurisdiction considerations relevant to Fort Lauderdale projects.

How do I choose between an LLC and a corporation in Florida?

Consider liability protection, management structure, taxes, and fundraising needs. Florida statutes Chapter 605 covers LLCs and Chapter 607 covers corporations, with distinct governance rules.

When is a share transfer subject to Florida securities law?

Transfers may trigger securities law if the offering constitutes a security sale to investors. Florida Chapter 517 governs such activities and requires compliance with antifraud provisions and exemptions.

Where can I register a Florida LLC or corporation online?

Entity registrations are processed through Sunbiz, the Florida Division of Corporations portal. The site provides forms, fee schedules, and annual report filing instructions.

Why should I hire a Florida lawyer for a startup financing?

A lawyer can structure the funding round, draft term sheets, and ensure compliance with state securities laws and corporate governance requirements.

Can I form a partnership for a Broward County real estate project?

Yes, a partnership can be formed under Chapter 620. An attorney can draft a partnership agreement that allocates profits, losses, and decision rights clearly.

Should I file an annual report for my Florida LLC, and when?

Yes. Florida requires annual reports to maintain active status. The filing is typically due annually and can be completed on Sunbiz.

Do I need a local business license in Fort Lauderdale?

Most operations require a Business Tax Receipt from the City of Fort Lauderdale or Broward County, depending on location and activity. Check local guidance before opening.

How long does it take to complete entity formation in Florida?

Typically 1-2 weeks for standard filings, assuming all documents are complete and fees are paid. Expedited options may be available through Sunbiz in some cases.

What is the difference between a management LLC and a member-managed LLC?

In a member-managed LLC, all owners participate in day to day decisions. In a management LLC, designated managers run the company while members may have limited involvement.

How much does it cost to form an LLC in Florida?

Formation fees vary but generally include state filing fees and local taxes. Check Sunbiz for the current fee schedule and any required local licenses.

Is there a difference between a domestic and foreign entity in Florida when structuring?

A domestic entity is formed in Florida, while a foreign entity is formed elsewhere but operates in Florida. Foreign entities must register with Sunbiz and comply with Florida requirements to do business locally.

Additional Resources

These official resources can help you understand the regulatory framework and practical steps for structuring investments in Fort Lauderdale and Florida.

  • Sunbiz - Florida Division of Corporations - Official portal for entity formation, annual reports, and corporate records in Florida. Sunbiz.org
  • City of Fort Lauderdale - Provides guidance on local licensing, business tax receipts, and permits required to operate in the city. FortLauderdale.gov
  • Broward County Clerk of Courts - Official source for legal and court records related to business transactions and filings affecting Broward County. BrowardClerk.org

Next Steps

  1. Define your business goals and choose the optimal entity type (LLC, corporation, or partnership) based on liability, tax, and funding considerations. Allocate a rough ownership structure before consulting counsel.
  2. Gather key documents such as proposed articles of organization or incorporation, ownership information, and a preliminary budget. Prepare a timeline for formation, licensing, and funding rounds.
  3. Consult a Fort Lauderdale or Broward County business attorney to confirm the preferred entity type and draft essential documents including operating agreements or bylaws.
  4. File the entity formation with Sunbiz and obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. Arrange the initial board or member meeting and adopt governance resolutions.
  5. Apply for any required local licenses and a Business Tax Receipt from the City of Fort Lauderdale or Broward County, depending on location and activity. Ensure zoning and permits align with your business plan.
  6. Draft internal agreements that reflect ownership, management, profit sharing, and dispute resolution. Include securities disclosures if seeking outside investment.
  7. Implement ongoing compliance measures such as annual reports, registered agent updates, and event driven filings. Set reminders for Florida annual report deadlines to avoid penalties.

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Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

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