
Comprehensive Business Law Services
At James River Law, led by Business Law Attorney Alex Mejias, we are proud to support the entrepreneurs, innovators, and business leaders who drive Richmond’s economy. From startups to established enterprises, our tailored legal services empower businesses to build a solid foundation, navigate complex challenges, and secure their futures.
Explore our comprehensive Richmond business law services below to learn how we can help you achieve your goals.

Start Strong: Business Formation with Confidence
Choosing the Right Entity for Your Business
Whether you’re launching a single-member LLC or a high-growth startup, selecting the right entity is critical. Your choice will affect your personal liability, tax obligations, and overall business structure. At James River Law, we provide strategic guidance to help you decide between LLCs, corporations, partnerships, or other entities based on your unique goals.
Types of Virginia Business Entities:
Sole Proprietorship
A sole proprietorship is the simplest business structure, offering complete control but no separation between personal and business liabilities. This means your personal assets could be at risk if your business faces legal challenges or debts.
General Partnership
General partnerships involve two or more owners who share profits, losses, and liabilities equally. While partnerships are straightforward to form, partners are personally liable for business debts, making this option less protective.
Limited Liability Company (LLC)
An LLC combines liability protection with operational flexibility, making it a popular choice for many businesses. Owners (members) are generally not personally liable for business debts, and LLCs offer tax advantages by avoiding double taxation.
Corporations
Corporations, including C-Corps and S-Corps, offer robust liability protection and the ability to raise capital through stock issuance. However, they require more formalities, including annual meetings and detailed record-keeping. C-Corps are subject to double taxation, while S-Corps provide pass-through taxation for eligible businesses.
Limited Partnerships (LPs)
LPs allow for both general and limited partners. General partners manage the business and assume liability, while limited partners contribute capital and enjoy liability protection, making LPs a good choice for investment-heavy ventures.
Nonprofits
Nonprofit organizations operate for charitable, educational, or religious purposes. They can qualify for tax exemptions but must adhere to strict operational rules and guidelines.
Protecting Your Assets from Liability
The right entity can shield your personal assets from lawsuits and business debts. We’ll ensure your business is structured to protect you while also setting you up for success.
Contracts and Licensing: Protecting Your Interests
Contracts are the backbone of any business. At James River Law, we draft and review agreements tailored to your needs, including:
- Letters of Intent (LOIs)
- Due diligence
- Stock and asset purchase agreements
- Post-closing restructuring
Our team ensures your contracts are enforceable, comprehensive, and aligned with your goals.
Licensing for Success
Whether you’re securing intellectual property rights or entering a licensing agreement, we’ll guide you through the process to maximize your benefits and minimize risks.
Protecting Your Creations:
Intellectual Property for Creators and Entrepreneurs
Safeguard Your Brand and Ideas
Your intellectual property (IP) is one of your most valuable assets. James River Law helps Richmond businesses secure and protect IP through:
- Trademark registration for logos, names, and slogans
- Copyright protection for original works
- Trade secret strategies, including NDAs and confidentiality agreements
Managing and Monetizing Intellectual Property
Many Richmond creators and entrepreneurs may not know the totality of their intellectual property. James River Law assists in valuing, licensing, and enforcing your IP, ensuring you maintain control while capitalizing on its value.
Comprehensive Legal Support for RICHMOND Businesses
Strategic Guidance for Business Growth: Mergers and Acquisitions
Navigating Complex Transactions
James River Law provides the experience you need to close a business deal successfully. If you are seeking a business acquisition attorney, we assist with:
- Letters of Intent (LOIs)
- Due diligence
- Stock and asset purchase agreements
- Post-closing restructuring
Protecting Your Business Interests in Richmond
We’ll negotiate favorable terms, minimize liabilities, and ensure your transaction aligns with your long-term business goals.
Building Stronger Company Partnerships
Partnership and Operating Agreements
For businesses with multiple owners, clear agreements are essential. We help draft partnership and operating agreements that address:
- Profit-sharing and ownership percentages
- Voting rights and decision-making processes
- Buyout terms and dispute resolution strategies
Planning for the Future: Business Succession
Securing You and Your Company’s Legacy
A well-crafted business succession plan ensures your company thrives after your departure, whether due to retirement, incapacity, or unforeseen events.
Key Elements of a Succession Plan
- Buy-Sell agreements: Define how ownership transitions will occur.
- Leadership Planning: Identify and prepare future leaders.
- Minimizing Taxes: Use trusts, family limited partnerships, and other strategies to reduce estate and gift taxes.
Without a succession plan, your business could face disruptions, financial losses, or even dissolution. A thoughtful succession plan ensures your business thrives beyond your involvement. We help Richmond business owners create buy-sell agreements, minimize tax liabilities, and prepare leadership transitions to secure your legacy.
Your Richmond Business Law Partner
At James River Law, we provide personalized legal solutions for Richmond entrepreneurs and businesses. Business Law Attorney Alex Mejias and our team are committed to delivering responsive, reliable service that helps you achieve your goals.
Let’s build your business together. Book a call with James River Law today to get started.