Engaging in international business can open your company to lucrative new markets and incredible growth potential. However, engaging in foreign markets takes preparation and support to ensure your business is operating within the law and not exposing your business to potential and real threats in the international marketplace.
Our firm excels in helping international businesses establish a successful presence in the U.S. We provide comprehensive support throughout every stage of your market entry, ensuring you understand and comply with the applicable U.S. regulations, as well as adapt to the local business environment.
Call the Lantz Law Group at 719-212-2022 or use our online form to schedule a free consultation.
Our Legal Services for Foreign Companies Looking to Enter the U.S.
Working with an international business lawyer is one of the best options to grow and protect your business, especially if you plan on working in multiple markets. Hiring an experienced international business lawyer can help you keep an eye on the intricacies involved in markets you might not know about. A qualified attorney can help you with business needs like:
- Choosing the right business entity (e.g., LLC, Corporation, Limited Partnership, Branch Office)
- Filing necessary documentation with state and federal authorities
- Obtaining required licenses and permits
- Ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal regulations
What Do You Need to Form and Operate a Business in the U.S.?
Entering the market and operating a business in the U.S. involves adapting to different legal and operational frameworks. Here are some key areas where our firm can help:
Real Estate Leases
Commercial leasing terms in the U.S. differ significantly from those in Europe. We assist in negotiating lease agreements that protect your interests, whether you are leasing office, retail, or industrial space.
Tax Structures
The U.S. has a multi-tiered tax system, including federal, state, and local taxes. Our team provides strategic guidance on navigating these layers, ensuring that your business complies with tax obligations while optimizing your tax position.
Personnel Management
Hiring and managing employees in the U.S. involves understanding employment laws, payroll systems, and benefits structures. We help you implement compliant and effective employment policies, including drafting employment agreements and advising on labor laws.
General Terms and Conditions for Sales
Establishing clear and legally enforceable sales terms is crucial in the U.S. market. We assist in drafting terms that align with U.S. laws and practices while protecting your business from unnecessary risks.
Contracts
Contract law in the U.S. differs from European systems, particularly in how agreements are interpreted and enforced. Our firm helps you draft and negotiate contracts that are compliant, enforceable, and aligned with your business goals.
Purchase Orders
We assist in creating standardized purchase orders that clearly define the obligations between your company and suppliers, helping to avoid disputes and misunderstandings.
Credit Terms for Customers
The U.S. approach to customer credit terms is vastly different from what is common in Germany. American businesses offering customers credit options must carefully document the terms (interest rates, late fees, collection procedures, who pays attorney’s fees if the matter goes into collection, use of the products sold as collateral and securing the transaction with some form of collateral.
U.S. Bankruptcy Law
We also provide guidance on U.S. bankruptcy laws and their potential impact on your business, helping you make informed decisions when extending credit to customers.
Product Warranties
U.S. consumers expect detailed product warranties, and warranty law is more prescriptive in the U.S. We help you develop warranty policies that meet legal standards and manage customer expectations.
Trademark Registrations
Protecting your brand is essential when entering a new market. We assist in registering and maintaining your trademarks with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, ensuring your intellectual property is safeguarded.
U.S. Market Entry and International Business FAQs
International business law has several aspects that can be confusing. Some commonly asked questions include:
What are the most common business structures for international companies entering the U.S. market?
Among the most common structures are Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) and C-Corporations. Each has its own advantages and considerations regarding taxation, liability protection, and operational flexibility. We can help you determine the best structure for your specific needs.
How long does setting up a business entity in the United States typically take?
The timeline can vary depending on the type of entity and the state of formation. Factors that can affect the timeline include obtaining necessary licenses, setting up bank accounts, and securing an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS.
What are the most important considerations when establishing a U.S. presence?
Key factors to keep in mind include choosing the right legal entity, understanding tax implications, ensuring compliance with U.S. employment laws, protecting intellectual property, and navigating contracts and credit terms. Additionally, building a strong relationship with local legal and financial advisors is crucial for ensuring ongoing compliance and success. Lantz Law Group provides legal assistance in all these areas.
Can government programs help with international trade?
The US government provides resources for anyone seeking to engage in outgoing (export) international business. You can contact the Trade Information Center with the Department of Commerce to find export resources. There are directories to help find export solutions or other information related to international trade.
How do I find more information about potential taxes?
The International Trade Administration is a useful resource to help you find and calculate tariffs, duties, and taxes. The administration provides access to trade databases. We also work with other lawyers and accountants locally and in other countries and jurisdictions to help you connect to other resources outside of the United States.
Why hire an international business lawyer?
International trade is complicated. Misfiling documents or using inaccurate information, among other missteps, can lead to serious consequences. Working with a skilled international business lawyer who is local in Denver helps protect your business on inbound transactions and can facilitate connections in other jurisdictions.
“Eric set up my terms and conditions for my travel agency...
and helped me write up all my contracts. He is communicative, patient, extremely knowledgeable and my go-to attorney for anything my business needs. I highly recommend Lantz Law Group!
Is Your Business Looking to Enter the U.S. Market? Lantz Law Group Can Help
Engaging in foreign trade is a reality for most companies these days. Once you have a website, you are, in effect, engaging the world. It is crucial for local companies to engage with attorneys who are familiar with the world marketplace. With our deep understanding of European and U.S. business practices, Lantz Law Group is uniquely positioned to help your company enter and thrive in the U.S. market.
Working with the Lantz Law Group can help your international business meet obligations, so you can use your resources to discover and exploit opportunities in the marketplace. Our business lawyers can help you recognize, identify, and address threats to your international business.
Call 719-212-2022 or use our online form to schedule your initial consultation.