Effective Counsel For Alaska’s Businesses Since 1977

The decisions you make today will inevitably have a major impact on your business tomorrow. To make wise choices, avoid disputes and remain in compliance with all regulations, you should have the counsel of trustworthy business attorneys.

At Baxter Bruce & Sullivan P.C., our team is ready to assist you. Since 1977, we have represented business entities and individuals throughout Alaska. Our attorneys bring sophisticated strategy and skill while remaining down-to-earth counselors who provide you with one-on-one personal attention.

A Broad Range Of Business Law Services

With more than 45 years of practice, our firm has earned an outstanding reputation for delivering results for our clients. Just a few of the matters we can assist you with include:

• Business formation and planning: We assist you in structuring your business entity to align with your strategic goals while ensuring legal compliance.
• Dispute resolution: We work to resolve conflicts efficiently, whether through mediation, arbitration or litigation, to protect your business interests.
• Business startup advice: We guide you through the critical early stages of your business, providing clear, actionable advice to lay a strong foundation.
• Regulatory compliance: We help ensure that your business operations adhere to all applicable laws and regulations, reducing the risk of penalties or legal challenges.
• Contract negotiation and drafting: We draft and negotiate contracts that safeguard your business interests and are tailored to your specific needs.
• Buying and selling: We facilitate smooth transactions, whether you are acquiring a new business or selling your current one, focusing on securing your financial and legal interests.
• Business counseling: We offer ongoing counsel to help you make informed decisions that foster your business’s growth and sustainability.
• Entertainment industry concerns: We address unique legal needs for clients in the entertainment sector, from copyright and trademark issues to contract negotiations.

Our experience has given us insight into when to use negotiation strategically and when to litigate a dispute. We strive to strike a balance between achieving the best results and utilizing cost-effective service that resolves your challenges in a timely manner.

Get The Right Start To Your Animal-Related Business

Do you own or operate an animal-based business practice, or are you interested in establishing one? One of our attorneys, Dr. Rachel Berngartt, is the only attorney in Alaska who practices animal and veterinary business law and is also a veterinarian. As a veterinarian, she understands animal-related business practices in depth and will provide a comprehensive analysis of your business goals to give you the legal tools necessary to launch a successful enterprise.

Frequently Asked Questions About Alaska Business Law

Launching a new venture can be incredibly exciting, but it is critical to consult with a qualified business lawyer prior to making key decisions. Our experienced Alaska attorneys provide personalized counsel and answer questions on a full range of legal concerns.

What is the best business structure for my new business?

Alaska offers entrepreneurs several options when they are considering the legal structure that best suits their business. After discussing your specific circumstances and goals, we can help you assess whether a corporation, partnership, limited liability company (LLC) or other type of entity is the right choice.

What is the difference between an LLC, S-Corp and C-Corp?

You can protect your personal assets from business creditors through an LLC, S Corporation or C Corporation. Many small business owners elect to create an LLC because that structure does not have the same internal governance and filing requirements as a corporation. Both LLCs and S-Corps enable income to pass through directly to owners, so there is no “double taxation.” However, certain businesses are not eligible for S-Corp status, so if the owners wish to establish a corporation, it would have to be a C-Corp, which would be treated as a separate entity for tax purposes.

How do I formally register my business?

Owners register their companies through Alaska’s Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing (DCBPL). Different requirements are in place for different types of entities. You can create a sole proprietorship or general partnership without registering it with the state, but you still will need a business license to begin operations. If you’re looking to establish a corporation, LLC or limited partnership, you must first complete the registration requirements set forth by the DCBPL.

What licenses and permits does my business need to operate legally?

To start, you must obtain a general business license issued by the DCBPL. From there, the authorizations you need from government bodies depend on the nature of your business, your location and other factors. We advise on professional licensing, specialized permits needed to use a particular property, employer requirements, local ordinances and standards that apply to specific industries.

Do I need a partnership agreement if I’m going into business with a partner?

Though a partnership agreement is not technically required under Alaska law, sharing ownership of a business without executing a foundational legal document is extremely risky. Business losses or creditor claims could put your personal assets in jeopardy. Without an instrument setting forth each partner’s rights and responsibilities, you might be left with no legal recourse if something goes wrong.

What should be included in a business contract?

The nature of the particular agreement dictates exactly what terms should go into a business contract. There are, however, certain basic elements that you should include regardless of the specific deal. Parties, payment terms and performance timelines should always be extremely clear, leaving no room for assumptions or differing interpretations. It is also important to anticipate potential conflicts by establishing a procedure for resolving disputes and confirming which law should apply if you’re negotiating with a party from another state.

What happens if someone breaches a contract with my business?

Frequently, a contract breach can be cured relatively quickly without court involvement. Once you suspect a violation, it’s wise to contact an attorney who can assess if a breach occurred and advise on potential remedies included within the agreement, such as a liquidated damages clause. Effective communication or a revision to existing terms might prompt a resolution that satisfies both parties. If not, your attorney will assemble the evidence needed to prove the breach and the extent of the harm resulting from it.

Let’s Talk Business

Meet with us to discuss how we can serve you with all your business endeavors. Contact our Juneau office to schedule your initial consultation with one of our lawyers. To get started, please call 907-789-3166 or send us an email.