Legal Question in Business Law in Virginia

Legal guidance to start indep. travel bus. contracting to Italian comp.

I would like to start a business as an independent sales agent in the travel agency. I would license a sole proprietorship home business in US. The business' mission would be to market and sell travel products from Italy. An Italian travel agency would actually book any requests for these travel products - hotel stays, guided tours, etc. In exchange for any actual bookings made through my American clients they would reimburse me with a commission. I need legal advice on how to start a business of this type, how to deal with an international company, how to draw up contracts so that I will receive fair monetary retribution for my services, etc. Do I need a lawyer? What kind of legal services are available to people who are starting their own business (in the travel industry - independent travel sales)and who need legal guidance and advice? What kind of lawyer can advise me on particulars in international business (dealings with an Italian business)? Thank you.


Asked on 4/21/98, 3:26 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Daniel Press Chung & Press, P.C.

Legal advice re new travel industry business

You need a lawyer. Absolutely. No one should start any kind of business without legal advice.

In terms of what "kind" of lawyer, lawyers are not like doctors in that, at least in most states, there are no officially recognized specialties and it is not allowed to advertise as a specialist. What you need is a lawyer familiar with the ins and outs of starting a small business, and preferably one with international experience and experience in the travel industry.

If you let me know where in VA you are located, my firm may either be able to help you or refer you to someone who can.

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Answered on 5/10/98, 7:08 pm


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