Business Lawyer in Norman, OK
Legal Guidance for Your Business from Formation to Growth
Starting or managing a business in Norman or the greater Cleveland County area requires careful legal planning. From choosing the right business structure to handling contracts, compliance, and liability issues, a knowledgeable business attorney can protect your personal and business interests.
At the Law Offices of Mark S. Cooper, we guide entrepreneurs and business owners through all aspects of business law, helping you minimize risk, stay compliant, and focus on growing your business.
Business Formation & Structures
Choosing the right business structure is critical for liability protection, tax planning, and operational flexibility.
Sole Proprietorship
A sole proprietorship is easy to form and gives you complete control of your business. You are automatically considered a sole proprietorship if you conduct business activities but do not register as another type of business entity.
Key Points:
- No separate business entity — your business and personal assets are not legally distinct.
- You can be held personally liable for business debts and obligations.
- Ability to register a trade name (“doing business as”).
- Difficult to raise capital — cannot sell stock, and banks are often hesitant to lend.
- Ideal for low-risk businesses or testing a business idea before forming a formal entity.
Partnership
Partnerships are the simplest structure for two or more owners. There are two common types: Limited Partnerships (LP) and Limited Liability Partnerships (LLP).
- Limited Partnerships (LP):
- One general partner with unlimited liability, while other partners have limited liability.
- Limited partners have less control, documented in a partnership agreement.
- Profits pass through to personal tax returns; general partner pays self-employment taxes.
- Limited Liability Partnerships (LLP):
- All partners have limited liability.
- Partners are protected from debts against the partnership and the actions of other partners.
- Ideal for professional services like law firms, accounting firms, or consulting practices.
Limited Liability Company (LLC)
An LLC combines benefits of corporations and partnerships, offering liability protection while allowing flexible taxation.
Benefits:
- Protects personal assets from business debts, lawsuits, or bankruptcy.
- Profits and losses pass through to personal income, avoiding corporate taxes.
- Separates personal and business finances for clearer liability protection.
Considerations:
- Members are self-employed and must pay self-employment taxes for Social Security and Medicare.
- Some states require LLCs to dissolve and re-form when membership changes unless an operating agreement addresses ownership transfers.
Why Work With a Business Attorney
- Legal Guidance for Formation: Choose the right business structure for liability protection and taxes.
- Contracts & Agreements: Draft, review, and negotiate contracts with clients, vendors, or partners.
- Compliance & Licensing: Ensure your business complies with state and federal regulations.
- Dispute Resolution: Handle conflicts with partners, clients, or employees efficiently.
- Business Growth Planning: Protect your interests as your business expands.
Serving Business Owners in Norman & Cleveland County
Our office represents entrepreneurs and established business owners throughout:
- Norman
- Moore
- Noble
- Purcell
- Oklahoma City
- Greater Cleveland County
Contact a Business Lawyer in Norman, OK
Starting or running a business doesn’t have to be stressful. With Mark S. Cooper on your side, you can make informed legal decisions, avoid unnecessary liability, and focus on growing your business.
📞 Call today: (405) 292‑7600
📍 2224 36th Ave NW, Suite 110, Norman, OK 73072
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Free consultation — personalized legal advice for your business.