Running a business in Norfolk means making decisions that have legal consequences—sometimes significant ones—on a regular basis. From the moment a business is formed to the contracts it signs, the employees it hires, and the transactions it enters into as it grows, the right legal guidance at the right time can prevent problems that are far more expensive to fix later. Inman & Strickler provides comprehensive legal services to businesses of all sizes operating in Norfolk and throughout the Hampton Roads region.
The structure you choose when starting a business has lasting implications for taxation, liability, and how the business operates day to day. LLCs, corporations, partnerships, and other entities each carry different advantages and tradeoffs, and what makes sense depends on the nature of the business, the number of owners, and the long-term vision for the company.
Our attorneys help new businesses get off the ground correctly—drafting operating agreements, shareholder agreements, and partnership documents that establish clear rights, responsibilities, and exit provisions from the start. We also help existing businesses restructure when their current form no longer fits their needs.
A contract that looks straightforward can contain provisions that create significant exposure—or that fail to protect you when something goes wrong. Our attorneys draft, review, and negotiate commercial contracts including service agreements, vendor contracts, lease agreements, non-disclosure and non-compete agreements, and purchase and sale agreements.
Norfolk’s business landscape includes substantial activity in defense contracting, maritime commerce, healthcare, technology, and professional services. We understand the contract environment across these industries and can identify issues that general practitioners might miss.
Buying or selling a business is one of the most significant transactions a business owner undertakes. The process involves due diligence, purchase price negotiations, representations and warranties, financing arrangements, and post-closing obligations—any one of which can create problems if handled improperly. Our attorneys guide buyers and sellers through the entire transaction process, from letter of intent through closing.
Many of our business clients work with us on an ongoing basis—not just when a specific issue arises, but as a resource for the legal questions that come up in the ordinary course of running a company. Having an attorney who understands your business and its history allows for faster, more practical guidance when decisions need to be made.
