What legal steps do I need to take to protect my small business from liability in Georgia?
To protect your small business from liability in Georgia, there are several steps you can take:
- Incorporate your business: By incorporating your business as a Limited Liability Company (LLC) or a Corporation, you can limit your personal liability in case your business is sued. This means that your personal assets won't be at risk, just the assets of the business.
- Obtain business insurance: Even if you incorporate your business, you can still be sued for certain liabilities. Obtaining business insurance, such as general liability insurance, can help protect your business in case of potential lawsuits.
- Comply with rules and regulations: Make sure that your business complies with all rules and regulations in Georgia. This includes obtaining any necessary permits and licenses, and complying with labor laws and safety regulations.
- Have a written agreement with partners and employees: Having a written agreement with partners and employees can help avoid disputes and can be used as evidence in case of a lawsuit.
- Protect your intellectual property: If your business has any intellectual property, such as trademarks, patents or copyrights, make sure to register them with the appropriate authorities to protect them from infringement.
It is important to note that these steps may not completely protect your business from liability, as there may be exceptions and limitations. In some cases, it may be necessary to obtain advice from a licensed attorney to fully assess your business's liability risks and determine additional steps that may need to be taken to protect your business.