Legal Question in Business Law in California

Re: Business card use

Well, it depends on what kind of business you are starting up. If a sole proprietorship or partnership, it's probably ok unless the name infringes on a copyright. I would highly suggest, however, that you file a fictitious business name statement with the county recorder. Most of your daily newspapers will do it for you at a reasonable price, which includes the required public notices (via the newspaper) concerning your use of the "dba." Without a certified Ficititious Business Name Statement, you will not be able to open a business account with a bank and, hence, not be able to receive payments in the name of the business.

If the use is for a corporation or an LLC, I would recommend that, if you will be forming the entity in the next 60 days, you get the name reserved with the California Secretary of State. That way, in the event you incorporate or form an LLC, the name you are using will still be available.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions concerning the formation of your business. Congratulations!