Legal Question in Business Law in Florida

I offered a guy a 40% equity stake in my start-up business in exchange for him to design, build and maintain the website. I have a feeling that this is a bit much. I don't believe I should pay someone forever for this. Since this is new territory for me I have no idea what is a common deal in this situation.


Asked on 10/26/11, 2:47 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Stephen Orchard Law Offices of Stephen Orchard

There is no standard when it comes to this type of business transaction. Whatever the parties determine as fair and equitable, then that's the deal. You're both taking a risk here. If the startup business fails, the web disigner gets zero. If your business is a smashing success, you will owe the web designer a disproportionate amount of your earnings.

Not necessarily a legal observation but maybe a businessman observation, but you will be much better off paying for services needed to start the business rather than offer an equity stake unless the equity partner has a continuing obligation to the business, something more than devoloping a website.

With all of that said, you should consult with a business law attorney to ensure that your agreement and business are properly set for whatever your ultimate agreement becomes.

Best of luck

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Answered on 10/28/11, 4:18 pm


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