The Limited Liability Company, or LLC, is a legal business structure that seeks to combine benefits from across several other traditional business forms. A LLC has the benefits of a corporation's limited liability, but avoids double taxation like a partnership or sole proprietorship. Like a corporation, the LLC can also have an unlimited amount of shareholders, called members. Unlike a corporation however, if a member dies, files for bankruptcy, or otherwise leaves the LLC, the company is dissolved. For hundreds of years, limited liability has been a primary goal of some business forms, but since the Oregon legislature enacted laws authorizing its formation, the modern LLC has become more and more popular.

Can My Business Be Formed as an LLC?

In Oregon, a business can be formed using the form that it chooses. Opening an LLC simply requires that the business founders file a form with the Secretary of State. Fees are generally charged for opening LLC's, however, and Oregon law determines the costs for creating LLC's. In deciding whether you should organize as an LLC, you should consider carefully the applicable laws. Finding the right business structure for your company can lead to increased profits, but the process may take some time.

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

A business in Multnomah County may change its form under particular conditions. Whether or not a business is eligible for conversion to a LLC is a determination made by applicable Oregon laws.

How Can an Attorney Help?

Attorneys experienced in Oregon business law can give you valuable input on whether your business would be more profitable as a LLC.