The Limited Liability Company, or LLC, is a legal form of business organization that offers the advantages of several other traditional structures. Like a sole proprietorship or partnership, an LLC is not taxed as its own entity. However, it still has the advantage of limited liability, the same as a corporation. LLC's, like corporations, can also have as many shareholders, or members, as desired. The LLC, however, is dissolved if one of those members files for bankruptcy or dies. For hundreds of years, limited liability has been a primary goal of some business forms, but since the California legislature enacted laws authorizing its formation, the modern LLC has become more and more popular.

Can My Business Be Formed as an LLC?

A business in California can be organized using the form that it chooses. If the founders want to organize as an LLC, all that is required is filing the appropriate form with the Secretary of State. However, there may be an additional fee required for forming your LLC, determined by California laws that govern the formation and actions of LLC's. When deciding whether to form a LLC, you should consider which laws would apply to your company. Although it may take some time to find, choosing the right business structure for your company will lead to increased profitability.

Can I Change the Form of My Business to an LLC?

Changing business forms in Westlake can be done if a company's situation meets specific conditions. Conversion to a LLC is possible if California law permits it in your situation.

How Can an Attorney Help?

Attorneys practicing business law in California can advise you on whether it would be favorable for your business to form or convert to a LLC.