Helping Small Businesses and Non Profit Companies Grow

Business today is increasing complicated. Pat Tauchert can help simplify the complexities of business start up and operations, and let you focus on building your business.  Incorporating under the proper structure can save both time and money. An accurate buy-sell agreement can help eliminate disputes, provide a clear understanding of the value of the business, and set up a framework for successful growth.  Often overlooked, having the right form agreements for customer and even supplier relationships, can clarify expectations, reduce disputes, and maximize your negotiating position if something does go wrong.  Pat Tauchert can help you streamline your business. 

Pat is experienced in the legal aspects of construction projects, from design to completion. She can help maintain your licenses, work through disputes and file liens to protect your payment rights.

Pat has experience in government contract regulations and can help small businesses take advantage of set-asides and growing businesses conform to regulations. Current regulations require that the Federal government spend 23% of its budget dollars with small businesses. The Federal government spends billions of dollars each year and available funds will increase dramatically under the new Administration. General Service Administration blanket agreements can provide an efficient framework for access to government business. State and local governments often have similar programs.  The opportunities are enticing, but come accompanied by regulations that can be daunting. Pat can guide you through the minefield of regulations to take advantage of the opportunities while staying “legal” and minimizing administrative expenses.

Non Profit Companies face many of the same challenges and legal requirements  as ‘for-profit” companies, with some additional tax and regulatory requirements. Pat Tauchert understands the special regulations governing non profits and can help you avoid common pitfalls.

Wills and Trusts

Why do you need a will?

A will greatly simplifies administration of your estate.  Having a current will insures that your wishes are implemented and that your assets are protected for your loved ones.  Without a will, probate and estate administration expenses may be significant and your estate may not be distributed in the way you choose. For example, if you are married with children and die intestate (without a will) your spouse would receive only half of your estate, and the remainder would be distributed directly to your children.  If both you and your spouse die, the court would determine who would be the guardian of your children. Even when your spouse is the designated guardian, court supervision, bonding,  and reporting may be required.  Everyone should have an up to date will.

Do you need a trust?

Many people do not need a trust. A simple will adequately protects their interests. However, if you have very young children, business property or very significant assets, creating a trust may be in your best interests.

Leaving assets in a trust allows you to extend the time before your children would inherit assets free of supervision of a guardian. Many people believe 18 is too young to be responsible for assets without supervision and that it would be preferable to distribute the assets when the children are older and more able to make wise decisions.

Business interests, such a stock in a family business, may also be better held in a trust. The trustee is able to immediately make business decisions and implement them without court approval. This simplifies the operation of the business during the transition period after the shareholder’s death.

Another instance when a trust may be beneficial is for high asset individuals, who wish to leave life time income interests to some beneficiaries rather than direct gifts or to provide income to later generations, such as their grandchildren and great-grandchildren, while minimizing applicable taxes.  A trust can be a helpful estate planning tool.

There are many forms of trusts and a number of them are quite simple and easily managed.
Let us help you choose the best approach for your situation.