A complimentary legal clinic for small business startups is scheduled for Saturday at the University at Buffalo’s Allen Hall, hosted by the WNY Law Center. From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., the clinic will provide advice on registering as a limited liability company (LLC) and address other legal issues involved in establishing a business. Participants must bring the $235 New York State registration fee. The legal clinic aims to assist entrepreneurs in navigating the complex legal framework surrounding business formation, ensuring their ventures start off on solid ground.
Scope of Services Offered
In addition to providing guidance on LLC registration, experienced attorneys will be available to answer questions, discuss intellectual property rights, and offer advice on various forms of contracts crucial for any new and growing business. This event marks the third partnership between the WNY Law Center and Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes’ office, with a specific focus on assisting minority- and women-owned businesses in the East Side district.
Assisting Underrepresented Business Owners
The organization’s goal is to promote equal opportunities for low-income residents and foster economic growth. By providing essential resources and guidance to these businesses, they aim to create a more inclusive and diverse economic landscape in the East Side district. Through collaboration with local leaders and the community, the WNY Law Center and Assembly Majority Leader Peoples-Stokes are working to ensure that minority- and women-owned businesses have the tools and support needed to thrive and contribute to the district’s overall prosperity.
The Importance of Supporting Minority-Owned Businesses
Paul Zuber, the Executive Vice President of the Business Council of New York State, underscored the significance of supporting minority-owned businesses, due to their role in generating jobs in underprivileged communities statewide. He stressed that these businesses not only contribute to the economic growth of the state but also create opportunities for social mobility among minority populations. By backing minority-owned enterprises, both the public and private sectors can play a crucial part in fostering a more inclusive and diverse business environment, ultimately benefiting the communities they serve.
Small Business Startup Surge Amid COVID Pandemic
Zuber recognized the recent surge in small business startups amid the COVID pandemic, calling for more state-level backing, such as improved access to capital, educational outreach, and a reduction of excessive costs for startups. In response to this trend, he suggests that state governments should be proactive in fostering a supportive environment for these emerging businesses to thrive. By implementing such strategies, these new entrepreneurs will be better equipped to navigate challenges, ultimately contributing to the overall growth of the economy.
Continued Support After the Clinic
WNY Law Center staff attorney Arthur Musarra highlighted that numerous attendees from their previous clinics continue to rely on the organization’s pro bono legal help for various business-related issues, including contracts and leases. He emphasized the importance of providing accessible legal guidance to the community, as it plays a crucial role in empowering small businesses and promoting economic growth.
The Value of Pro Bono Legal Assistance
By offering individualized pro bono assistance, the WNY Law Center enables local entrepreneurs to make informed decisions and navigate the complex legal challenges they may face in their business journey. As these businesses grow and face new hurdles, the WNY Law Center will continue to support them, fostering a diverse and inclusive economic landscape, and ensuring that minority- and women-owned businesses have the resources needed to succeed and contribute to the district’s overall prosperity.
Conclusion
The upcoming legal clinic at the University at Buffalo’s Allen Hall is a testament to the dedication and efforts of the WNY Law Center and its partners in promoting equal opportunities for low-income residents and fostering economic growth. By providing accessible legal guidance and resources to minority- and women-owned businesses, they not only serve as a lifeline for these entrepreneurs but also contribute to a more inclusive and diverse economic landscape, ultimately benefiting the communities they serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the legal clinic?
The legal clinic is designed to provide free legal advice and guidance to small business startups, particularly minority- and women-owned businesses in the East Side district. The clinic will cover topics such as registering as an LLC, intellectual property rights, and crucial contracts needed for new and growing businesses.
When and where is the legal clinic being held?
The legal clinic will take place on Saturday at the University at Buffalo’s Allen Hall, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Is there a fee to attend the legal clinic?
There is no fee to attend the clinic. However, participants must bring the $235 New York State registration fee if they plan on registering as a limited liability company (LLC) during the event.
How does the legal clinic support underrepresented business owners?
The WNY Law Center, in partnership with Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes’ office, aims to promote equal opportunities for low-income residents and foster economic growth by providing essential resources and guidance to minority- and women-owned businesses in the East Side district.
Why is it important to support minority-owned businesses?
Supporting minority-owned businesses is crucial because they generate jobs in underprivileged communities and contribute to the overall economic growth of the state. Additionally, they create opportunities for social mobility among minority populations and foster a more inclusive and diverse business environment that benefits the communities they serve.
How does the WNY Law Center offer continued support after the clinic?
The WNY Law Center provides ongoing pro bono legal assistance to entrepreneurs for various business-related issues such as contracts and leases. They are committed to offering accessible legal guidance to the community, empowering small businesses, and promoting economic growth.
Featured Image Credit: Photo by August de Richelieu; Pexels; Thank you!
