James M. Hillas, P.C

At Hillas Law, we understand the unique challenges faced by small businesses. We are a boutique law firm dedicated to providing comprehensive legal services tailored to the specific needs of entrepreneurs and growing enterprises. Our mission is to empower our clients to achieve their business goals while navigating the complexities of the legal landscape with confidence.

Experience You Can Trust

Jim Hillas, our founding attorney, brings decades of experience specializing in small business law. He has a deep understanding of the legal issues that entrepreneurs encounter, from the initial stages of startup formation to ongoing operations, growth, and eventual exit strategies. Jim's experience spans a wide range of industries, allowing him to offer valuable insights and practical solutions to diverse business challenges.

Our Services

We offer a comprehensive suite of legal services designed to support small businesses at every stage of their lifecycle:

Starting Your Business

Launching a new business venture is an exciting but often complex process. Hillas Law is here to guide you through the crucial initial steps, ensuring a strong legal foundation for your future success. We assist with:

• Entity Selection and Formation: Choosing the right legal structure for your business (sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, corporation) is a critical decision with lasting implications. We'll help you evaluate your options and file the necessary paperwork to establish your business legally.
• Partnership Agreements: If your business involves multiple owners, a well-drafted partnership agreement is essential to outline roles, responsibilities, profit sharing, and dispute resolution procedures. We'll work with you to create a clear and comprehensive agreement that protects all parties' interests.
• Governing Document Creation: We'll prepare your bylaws, operating agreements, or shareholder agreements, essential documents that set forth the rules governing your business operations and internal decision-making processes.
• Intellectual Property Protection: Protecting your brand, inventions, and creative work is crucial for long-term success. We'll advise you on trademarks, copyrights, and patents to safeguard your valuable intellectual property assets.

Running Your Business

As your business grows and evolves, you'll encounter various legal challenges that require expert guidance. Our ongoing legal services help you manage risk, optimize operations, and ensure compliance.

• Contract Negotiation and Review: From vendor agreements to employment contracts, we'll review and negotiate contracts to protect your interests and minimize potential liabilities.
• Compliance Matters: We'll assist with navigating complex legal requirements, including labor laws, environmental regulations, and data privacy, to ensure your business remains compliant.
• Dispute Resolution: We will work effectively to resolve disputes with clients, vendors, or employees, using negotiation, mediation, or litigation as needed, to safeguard your business interests.
• Strategic Legal Planning: We'll collaborate with you to develop a comprehensive legal strategy aligned with your business goals, anticipating future challenges and opportunities.

Selling Your Business

Preparing to transition your business ownership? Hillas Law provides expert guidance to ensure a smooth and successful sale.

• Valuation and Negotiations: We'll assist in determining a fair market value for your business and negotiate favorable terms with potential buyers.
• Due Diligence: We'll guide you through the due diligence process, ensuring all necessary documents are prepared and reviewed to minimize risks for both buyer and seller.
• Transaction Documentation: We'll draft and review all legal documentation related to the sale, including purchase agreements and closing documents, to protect your interests.
• Post-Sale Matters: We'll assist with any post-sale legal issues, such as employee transitions, contract assignments, and ongoing liabilities.