When starting a business you must first decide whether or not to incorporate. This decision is not automatic and will depend upon the particular circumstances that surround your business. You must determine whether you can shield yourself from personal liability. Finances and taxation issues are also important.

You may have partners or shareholders and want to clarify your rights by agreement, or provide for rules of governance of the company. Major issues and potential problems should be dealt with in advance so that all concerned will know how to act when certain situations arise.

When purchasing a business, whether it be a retail operation, service enterprise, manufacturing company or a distribution network, we will assist you in negotiating purchase or sale price and conditions, and we will act in such a manner that your rights and remedies are protected.

We have experience in the drafting and negotiation of leases for retailers, manufacturers, service companies and professional practices. We can even help you to locate the right place to operate and suggest creative and effective modes of business development.

You may wish to take on additional shareholders. New partners must be properly incorporated into your business. This may be an appropriate time to review the share structure of the company.

Your business may expand. You might purchase the assets of another business. You may however not want to take on the debts and liabilities of an already existing company, thereby requiring a thorough asset and liability review.

We will ensure that monies loaned or funds due on or after closing are received and secured. We will follow up with you to remind you of ongoing obligations and advances made.

For many companies, trademarks are their most valuable asset. A trademark must be properly protected in order to prevent others from using your good name. We can help you to determine a Brand Management Strategy and position your company to ensure success of the Strategy and Trade Mark Applications.

Some successful entrepreneurs develop franchise systems instead of taking on shareholders. A franchising system is developed in conjunction with your trademark patents and Brand Management Strategy. We can help to structure your franchise relationships so that both parties are successful. We can also help if you are looking to enter into the business world through one of the many franchises that are available.

When expanding your market share, you will have to decide whether to incur the cost of setting up a distribution network; whether to subcontract to an established distributor and whether to license your product or retain control through a joint venture. We can help you find the right partner. We will also prepare an appropriate agreement which sets out the rights and obligations of each party.

As legal counsel for United States and Canadian software developers, as well as european corporations, we have the expertise to help your technology venture get off the ground and expand.

Sometimes the best ideas are those that have proven to be successful in foreign markets. If you have access to innovative technology or system abroad, we can help to secure your rights to transfer the technology to North America, while protecting your international partners' interests. At Costa Law Firm we can help smooth the waters so that you enjoy clear business sailing.

It sometimes becomes necessary to protect your interests or take an aggressive stance. At Costa Law Firm we have litigators who can develop defence and attack strategies in conjunction with our commercial department so that you can lead and attack on many fronts and defend your weak areas. We will help you maximize your potential should you go to court or decide to settle a commercial matter.