Douglas M. McIntyre's Houston Texas Law firm represents small businesses and individuals in such areas as:

Douglas M. McIntyre has been providing commercial Litigation legal services for over thirty one (31) years.

Should I start my own business?
Most small business owners usually start their business with some initial hesitation. To start and effectively run a business requires much work and dedication. You will be your own most important employee, so an objective appraisal of your strengths and weaknesses is essential. Knowledge of the industry and how it operates in your area, as in the Houston, Texas area, can be critical. A small business attorney in Houston, Harris County, Texas can advise you effectively on the industry practices in business contracts, customary contract negotiation practices, local and state tax issues, employee and employer law, what business entity would be most effective, shareholder rights, corporate law, and a whole host of legal issues that are part of owning and operating a business. In most businesses bad debts can become an issue, and a collection attorney becomes a necessary evil. When a client or a customer fails to pay, every dollar that is not collected is a dollar of profit lost. Metaphorically, that dollar comes straight out of the business owner’s wallet. Douglas M. McIntyre can help collect that bad debts in a cost effective manner, often on a contingency fee basis. Bill collectors that only use the phones can often waste time and money, especially on a debtor who is really strained financially. Often such a debtor understands that they do not need to worry about paying that debt until a lawsuit has been filed. Only when a civil litigation attorney or collection lawyer has either sent a demand letter or filed a lawsuit, do they need to consider payment. In Houston, Harris County, Texas acquiring an existing business should begin with hiring an attorney. Purchasing a business always involves a significant financial undertaking. The evaluation of the business should involve an accountant and an attorney. Negotiating the price, and arranging the contractual structure can help save money even years in the future. Contract negotiations should begin after the business entity has been formed. The inclusion of real estate, equipment and machinery, as well as employees, are all important. Covenants not to compete can help retain key employees. Also, a Noncompetition Agreement is must between buyer and seller, for a period of years, within a certain geographical area.

What is a business plan and why do I need one?
A business plan precisely defines your business, identifies your goals and serves as your firm`s resume. Its basic components include a current and pro-forma balance sheet, an income statement and a cash flow analysis. It helps you allocate resources properly, handle unforeseen complications, and make the right decisions. Because it provides specific and organized information about your company and how you will repay borrowed money, a good business plan is a crucial part of any loan package. Additionally, it can tell your sales personnel, suppliers and others about your operations and goals. The choice of business entity formed to operate the business is important, whether a corporation, Limited Liability Company, Limited Liability Partnership, or Limited Partnership, there protection and tax implications can effect profits.

What do I need to succeed in a business?
There are four basics of success in small business;(1) Sound management practices.;(2) Industry experience.;(3) Technical support.;(4) Planning ability. Few people start a business with all of these bases covered. Honestly assess your own experience and skills; then look for partners or key employees to compensate for your deficiencies. Do not save foolish money on legal fees, or “over-lawyer” legal matters. Often, in contract negotiations, or acquiring a business, or merging with another business, a legal evaluation early in the process is money well spent. Reviewing or creating essential contracts with the landlord, or key employees or customers is best done at the start. A good business lawyer can help negotiate binding contracts when the parties are “all smiles.” Many businesses are precarious, such as those with one or two huge customers, or those with a pending tax or employee issue that is large, or one in a dying industry. High hopes and unrealistic expectations will not pay the bills. Lawyers with business experience, and knowledgeable in the fields of debtor relations and creditors rights can recognize potential problems.