Legal Question in Business Law in Louisiana

Starting a business.

I am trying to start my own photography business. The name is not my own, though it does contain my initials along with the word photography. I do the office type of work such as photo editing, printing and web managment from home, but not the actual photography. I take the photos on site, wherever the client is. ie: I would take wedding photos at the wedding location. I live in an apartment, but my landlady has no problem with me doing this because it's quiet work and not disturbing anyone. Also no clients will be coming here. I do plan to get an actual seperate building once the business takes off.

I know is that my business is going to be a sole proprietorship, and that as a sole proprietorship I don't have to apply for an EIC, but I do have that option. I plan to do that in order to help keep the business idenity seperate from my own and establish a good credit rating for the business. I do know where to do that and that it is free.

What I don't know is where to begin with registering my business name, exactly what licenses & permits I need (federal and state) how much they are and where to obtain them. I

Basically I need to know what I HAVE to do to legally operate in my business.

Thanks in advance!


Asked on 8/29/07, 2:17 am

3 Answers from Attorneys
Johm Smith tom's

Re: Starting a business.

I agree with Nick, it isn't very expensive to get your business going, and banks like Chase are giving perks to startups in the Katrina affected region. But do get an attorney to advise you on what you need to know both for your business and for the IP rights relating to your business.

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Answered on 8/29/07, 12:18 pm
Curtis Shelton Ayres, Warren, Shelton & Williams, LLC

Re: Starting a business.

I would also suggest that if you are going to have any kind of employee in the futire, you check out the information available online with the Louisiana Department of Labor. Also, get the help of a good accountant to show you how to set up your books, track expenses, keep records, etc. It will save you more money than you pay for the help come tax time.

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Answered on 8/29/07, 5:56 pm
Nick Pizzolatto, Jr. Pizzolatto Law Office

Re: Starting a business.

Go to the Louisiana Secretary of State Site.... http://www.sos.louisiana.gov/ and scroll around. They can tell you all that is required as far as the State is concerned. I would suggest an LLC but that is your decision. Then go to your Parish and see what is needed from them...probably nothing..and then to your City administration....you will probably need an Occupational License.....all toll, you will probably have to spend $300-500 bucks.....including Atty fee for the LLC....it is not very expensive. Good luck....

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Answered on 8/29/07, 8:18 am


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