Although starting a Maryland business can be an attractive prospect, there are some laws and regulations that you need to know before you begin. A Frederick, MD lawyer will give you exceptional support and provide a solid foundation for your business.
These are just a few of the steps you can take to get your business off on the right foot.
Learn more about Maryland’s Workforce
Maryland offers many opportunities for business owners, including a highly-educated workforce, strong structures, and modern infrastructure. According to the Maryland website
- Maryland is ranked #1 in science and technology workforce
- #1 in the highest concentrations of Ph.D. scientists
- #1 in the country for professional and graduate degree attainment
- #5 in attainment of a bachelor’s degree
You’ll find the best talent and leaders to grow your local business.
Maryland Business Laws and Regulations That You Must Know
There are several steps to starting a business in Frederick or nearby Maryland cities. These are the key topics that will help you get started.
Register a business name
To find a name for your business, you can use the Maryland Secretary Of State’s website. Names must be unique and not be confused with other businesses in the state. Register your name here or meet with a business lawyer to get started.
Register your company
Maryland allows you to easily establish your business. After you have decided on the type and structure of the business you want to start (a Limited Liability Company-LLC or a Corporation), you can register online at Maryland Business Express. This portal is a great tool for setting up your business. For assistance in forming your Maryland business, consult an attorney. This includes filing Articles of Incorporation and registering with Maryland.
Get Permits and Licenses
Maryland OneStop will help you identify the licenses and permits that you need to keep in the state. These could include professional licenses, requirements for business formation, and licenses to operate different types of businesses. Each city has its own regulations regarding permitting operations.
Navigate Maryland’s Employment Standards and Wage Payment Requirements
Although employers in Maryland must meet all federal regulations, all employers must adhere to a set wage payment and employment standard. These are under the control of the Maryland Department of Labor. These are some of the key areas:
- Pay frequency: State employees must be paid at the minimum once every two weeks, or twice per month. Some professional, executive and administrative employees may receive less frequently.
- Wages – Employers must pay all wages earned in a timely manner. Employers cannot keep any portion of an employee’s wages, except as security against a type of future risk.
- Minimum wage and overtime In Maryland, the minimum wages are $13.25, which will rise to $14.00 an hour on 1/1/24. This applies to all employers that have more than 15 employees. As of 1/1/23, employees below this amount must be paid $12.80 an hour. This will increase to $13.40 an hour on 1/1/24. If employees work more than 40 hours per week, they must be paid 1.5x their hourly rate.
- Leave laws Maryland has many leave laws that allow people to take time off work without losing their job. Flexible Leave Act, adoption leave, time for a family member to be ill, or upon their death, as well as deployment leave for employers with more than 50 employees. Many employees also require parental leave.
- Employment at Will: Employees in Maryland work “at will” for their employers. This means that employees can be fired or hired for almost any reason. However, discrimination laws still apply to all employees.
To protect your business against fines or even closure, it is important to be familiar with all Maryland business laws relating to the hiring and maintenance of a workforce.
Management and Business Contracting
To help your business start, you should work closely with a Frederick, MD business lawyer. By establishing legally binding contracts, you can accomplish this. They must be drafted in accordance with Maryland law. This ensures that they are legally binding and can be enforced.
It is possible to create contracts for the majority of the work that you do. This applies to:
- Employers
- Independent contractors
- Vendors
- Customers
- Clients
-
Landlords
Let an attorney create a solid plan for your business, taking into account all the needs of your company.
For OSHA Compliance Management, consult an attorney
OSHA plays a significant role in Maryland’s business operations. OSHA will help you ensure that your workplace is safe for your employees. These include:
- Safety at work
- Hygiene and cleanliness
Also, you will need to comply with the requirements of the local health departments. We recommend that you consult an attorney if you face fines or claims against you business for violations such as these.
Litigation Matters
Many business owners don’t think they will have to hire an attorney for litigation. There are many reasons you might need to hire an attorney for litigation.
- Product risk
- Property Liability
- Claims against your company
- Contract disputes
- Corporate issues
It is crucial to have a skilled attorney who can guide and support you in all of these cases. Maryland is very business-friendly, but the laws favor victims. It is always a good idea to have an attorney to help you.
Get in touch with a Frederick, MA Business Law Attorney
A Frederick, MD business lawyer can help you start and run your company confidently. Lusk Law LLC can help you get your business started, make legally binding contracts, as well as support you in building a solid foundation. For any questions regarding business formation, litigation or any other legal issues you might be facing, we encourage you to get in touch with us immediately.
The first Attorney at Law Magazine article was Understanding Maryland Business Law. A Guide for Entrepreneurs In Frederick.