Business Law Attorney in Coralville, Iowa

From Start-up to Business Succession

The choice of business entity is a fundamental decision in the launch of a start-up venture. The limited liability form (LLC) may be ideal for a company that is to be closely managed by the owners. Start-up companies may opt for a corporation as the business entity. The choice of business entity should be made in consultation with the tax professional for the business as well as the attorney for the business since the choice of an entity designation can trigger certain tax filing deadlines and the choice figures prominently in the rights and responsibilities of each owner.

Whether you are contemplating starting a new business or you’ve been a business owner for some time, you will need the services of a trusted business law attorney to counsel you on funding options, such as government grants and loans, and who introduce you to established, local lenders that can help you fund your business.

Assemble the Right Professional Team

As you grow your business and as you plan for retirement, successfully managing the equity that you’ve accumulated is important. The legal services that Melvin provides includes using relationships that he has established with accountants, financial advisors, lenders, and other professionals who can combine their talents to help you succeed. Contact Melvin O. Shaw today for your business law needs.

Business Formations

Melvin is an experienced business law attorney who represents clients with the formation of limited liability companies, small corporations (S-corps), traditional corporations, partnerships, nonprofits, and persons transitioning from a sole proprietorship to a formal business entity.  

Asset Purchase Agreements

Melvin drafts asset purchase agreements for business buyers and sellers of companies in the service, professional, technology, construction, and other sectors. He assists clients with all aspects of the purchase transaction. Clients can be assured that Melvin will guide them through commercial lender financing and Small Business Administration funding requirements, and structure private financing terms.

Buy-Sell Agreements

Every successful business owner should plan for the day ownership and control of the closely-held business is transferred to a family successor or other person. Among other things, Melvin helps clients better understand how their transition from their company as owner affects their existing or new estate plan objectives. Using a client-centered approach, Melvin thoughtfully tailors his services to meet the unique needs of each client. 

Contract Drafting

Melvin is skilled at commercial contract drafting and negotiations between owners and purchasers. He works diligently to resolve potential breach of contract issues. Melvin approaches contract issues thoughtfully and in the client’s best interest. Often, the best resolution is one designed by the contracting parties who, after realizing the unpredictably of trial, opt for a contract resolution through reasoned consensus in lieu of costly and time consuming litigation.

Diverse Clients

Melvin has also advised clients on buy-sell agreements involving construction, insurance, technology, accounting, and other professional service companies, all of varying sizes. He has successfully represented banks on loan agreements, loan modifications, and in other lender transactions.  

In addition to commercial clients, Melvin represents farmers with farm leases, and land acquisitions. He works with regional farm credit service agencies in agricultural transactions and conducts commercial closings for lenders. 

Knowledgeable

Melvin is writing a manuscript on Iowa business entities for a major legal publisher. The manuscript is due for publication in 2024. Client testimonials illustrate client outcomes, and emphasize Melvin’s particular expertise and attention to their important matters. 

Client-Focused

Melvin’s approach always has been to assess his client’s needs, consult with the client on the methods to be undertaken, help them prioritize their objectives, assess developments, and manage their matter form start to completion.  

Contact Melvin to quickly and efficiently convert from a sole proprietorship, form your LLC, S-Corp, or other business entity, and to review the management structure of your company or law@melvinshaw.com