ANSWER: The law does not require that a person be represented by a lawyer in the formation of a business organization. However, the organization of a business involving multiple parties is complex, and it is recommended that each of the founders be represented by an attorney in the negotiations and formation of the new business entity, because complex rights and obligations should be carefully defined, for example, the rights of a party to withdraw from the business, the right of a party to buy the interest of a deceased party, the obligation to invest additional capital, and the right to vote and take part in business decisions. The formation of certain types of business entities, such as corporations and limited liability companies, is complex, and there are traps for the unwary. If the rules are not carefully followed, there may be unintended consequences, including unexpected tax consequences.

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