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Business law, also known as commercial law, significantly impacts businesses in Atlanta, Georgia. It encompasses all laws dictating how to start, buy, manage, and close a business. Depending on their type of business, owners might need to understand specific areas of the law, including zoning, copyright, trademark, patent, employment and labor law, anti-discrimination law, and more. With Atlanta being a major commercial hub in the United States, understanding these laws becomes crucial for business success.
Legal circumstances where you might require a lawyer include: starting a new business and need to determine the best business structure (partnership, LLC, corporation, etc.), dealing with any kind of contract (with customers, suppliers, or partners), understanding zoning laws, bringing or defending a lawsuit, or needing to lay off or hire employees.
Atlanta, Georgia, boasts specific laws such as zoning laws that businesses need to adhere to. Zoning ordinances control the physical development of land and the kinds of uses to which each individual property may be put. Furthermore, Atlanta follows federal laws regarding employee rights and environmental regulations. However, Georgia's right-to-work laws, no state-level antidiscrimination law beyond federal protections, and a lower minimum wage than the federal standard contribute to a unique local business climate.
Yes, before opening your business in the city of Atlanta, you must apply for and receive a business license.
You can register your business name with the Georgia Secretary of State. If you're operating under a fictitious name or DBA (Doing Business As), you need to file that name with the county's Clerk of Superior Court.
Georgia labor laws include the Right to Work law, stipulations on working hours, and minimum wage requirements. Georgia's minimum wage is $5.15 per hour, although it's generally superseded by the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour.
Businesses in Atlanta are subject to various taxes, including federal income tax, state income tax, sales tax, and property tax. The rates vary based on the type of business and its revenue.
Yes, non-US residents can start a business in Atlanta. However, there are additional steps and requirements they must follow.
The Georgia Secretary of State’s office can assist with many legal needs around business setup and operations. For local business regulations, the Atlanta City Council website provides information on current local laws and ordinances. Furthermore, the Georgia Department of Labor is a useful resource for queries about state labor laws.
If you need legal assistance, consider contacting a business lawyer in Atlanta. This professional will help you navigate through legal obstacles. When choosing a lawyer, look for those who specialize in the area of business law that's most relevant to your needs. For instance, if you're opening a bakery, you'll want someone experienced in food service laws and regulations. Always check your potential lawyer's credentials and reputation before finalizing the selection. You can find and contact these professionals through various online directories or local law offices.
