common types of corporate law

Maybe you’re an entrepreneur just getting your first startup off the ground. Or maybe you’re a corporate executive overseeing expansion and acquisitions. Or perhaps you’re a small business owner hoping to grow and protect your business.

Whatever your calling, if you’re in the business of business, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the different types of corporate law. 

At Berluti McLaughlin & Kutchin LLP, we’re committed to simplifying corporate law concepts and providing comprehensive legal support so you feel confident going forward. Our attorneys offer custom solutions, combining skill and know-how to provide impeccable client experiences for businesses of all sizes.

Armed with extensive legal know-how, we take a personal approach to client service, ensuring you feel supported and well-informed at every step.

Take a moment to explore the different areas of corporate law below, then give us a call. You can rest assured knowing you’ve secured your company proactive legal advisors and trusted business navigators for life.

Why Choose BMK for Your Corporate Law Needs?

We recognize the intricate legal challenges your businesses face. Our devoted attorneys and professional staff are committed to providing you with excellent client service, technical skills, and personalized attention that will help those businesses thrive. Here are just a few ways we differ from other firms:

  • We understand your unique needs. We tailor our services to your business’s specific requirements and to the owners and executives who run them.
  • We offer practical advice and planning. Our team provides practical advice and planning tips so you can anticipate and avoid problems before they occur, ensuring smooth business operations.
  • We offer sensible solutions for unexpected situations. We help you troubleshoot and devise practical solutions when facing unforeseen challenges.

Contact us today to learn how we can support you and your business endeavors, ensuring you’re well-equipped to handle all corporate law challenges. We’ll build a solid legal foundation safeguarding your company’s success.

What Are Common Types of Corporate Law?

From formation to governance, each type of corporate law shapes the business landscape. Below, let’s explore several of the most common areas of corporate law.

Corporate Formation and Structure

Corporate formation and structure are the legal procedures to establish a business entity. At this stage, an attorney can help businesses decide whether to form a limited liability company (LLC) or a corporation.

Ensuring the proper business structure offers liability and tax protections and safeguards smooth operations as the company grows. Lawyers help with this process by drafting documents like articles of incorporation, partnership agreements, and bylaws so they align with your business’s goals.

Corporate Governance

Corporate governance involves establishing systems, processes, and guidelines to ensure company accountability. Lawyers in this area of law help companies define the roles and responsibilities of the board of directors, executives, and shareholders.

Governance also involves drafting governance policies and conducting regular compliance checks to prevent ethical and legal issues from arising.

Mergers and Acquisitions

Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) cover the legalities of merging with or acquiring other companies. M&A transactions involve:

  • Due diligence, 
  • Valuation, 
  • Negotiation, and 
  • Compliance with regulatory requirements. 

A lawyer’s job during mergers and acquisitions is to evaluate a company’s financial health, existing contracts, liabilities, and other factors that could impact the deal. Additionally, they ensure compliance with antitrust laws to avoid potential legal hurdles.

Employment Law

Employment law covers many corporate employment issues, including hiring practices, workplace safety, wages, and anti-discrimination policies. An employment lawyer can help companies craft legally sound:

  • Employment contracts, 
  • Non-compete clauses, and 
  • Employee handbooks. 

Examples of corporate law in the employment sector include implementing non-compete agreements, which prevent former employees from competing with the employer for a certain period.

Contract Law

Companies routinely enter into contracts with suppliers, customers, employees, independent contractors and others in connection with their business. Contract lawyers help ensure that these contracts accurately set forth the terms of the agreement, protect against risk, and comply with applicable law..

Compliance and Regulatory Law

Depending on the industry, compliance and regulatory law cover many areas, from environmental regulations to data privacy laws. For instance, a compliance and regulatory lawyer can help energy companies comply with federal, state, and local environmental regulations to avoid penalties such as hefty fines, legal challenges, shutdowns, and reputation damage.

Securities Law

Securities law governs the issuance, buying, and selling of securities such as stocks and bonds. Companies seeking to raise capital through public or private offerings especially need to understand this area of law.

Corporate law examples of securities law would be lawyers helping companies prepare for an initial public offering (IPO).

A lawyer can help companies register with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and disclose financial statements, risks, and other material information, allowing potential investors to make informed decisions.

Intellectual Property Law

Intellectual property (IP) law safeguards intangible assets, such as patents, copyrights, and trademarks. An IP lawyer helps to protect a company’s innovations, branding, and creative works from unauthorized use.

Examples of corporate law in an IP context might include a tech company patenting a new algorithm. An IP lawyer can help secure patents and prevent competitors from copying its technology.

Take the Next Step with BMK

At BMK, we provide businesses with peace of mind. Our commitment to excellence is evidenced in our various accolades, including being ranked “Best Law Firm’s” Best Lawyers in 2024 and TopVerdict.com’s “Top 100 Jury Verdicts for Labor & Employment Law.”

But that’s not all; our attorneys have garnered honors such as Best Lawyers in America, “Ones to Watch,” Massachusetts Super Lawyer, and Boston’s Top-Rated AV Preeminent Rated Lawyers.

With our comprehensive understanding of corporate law and over 110 years of combined experience, our devoted attorneys are here to earn your trust and guide you through every legal challenge. Contact BMK Legal today to learn how we can become your trusted partner.