Experienced Business Lawyer
Serving Maryland and Washington, D.C., Businesses Since 1985
Bethesda, Maryland, attorney, Barbara I. Berschler, advises clients pursuing their dream of business ownership as well as those with well-established companies. An experienced business law attorney, Ms. Berschler represents local residents and serves as a registered agent for service of process for businesses in Maryland. To schedule an appointment, contact her at 301-761-4097.
For more information regarding business law questions and answers, view Ms. Berschler's FAQ page or articles section.
Business Start-Up and Operation
Ms. Berschler advises those planning to operate a business, as to the most appropriate business organizational form, whether sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, limited liability company, and other entities. She will draft the necessary documents and counsel you on the requirements of operating within the selected legal structure.
Contract Drafting and Negotiation
Because one cannot operate a business without entering into contracts, it is essential to have the right lawyer on your team to draft or review them. Whether it is necessary to develop your basic sales contract or to review a business proposal being offered to you, it is important to be sure that the language of the document accomplishes the goals you wish to attain. Attorney Berschler's considerable experience in contract drafting and negotiation makes her a high-quality choice for these tasks.
Commercial Lease Negotiation
Leases are a special kind of contract. The lease for your office, store, or warehouse is likely one of the most expensive and important contracts you will sign. Ms. Berschler has had many years of experience in negotiating these documents. Her input can make your lease work in your favor.
Franchise Review and Negotiation
Franchises offer the new entrepreneur an established business model. However, there are many obligations placed upon someone who considers this route. Because this relationship establishes an added level of oversight by the franchisor and additional costs such as royalty, advertising, and training fees, the "Uniform Franchise Offering Circular" (UFOC) provided by the franchisor is one document you want to understand fully. Ms. Berschler can enable you to better understand your obligations under that contract.
Buying or Selling Your Business
Depending on the point you have reached in the growth of your business, you may wish either to sell it or to acquire a "growing concern." In either case, the process not only involves the interests of the buyer and seller but also third parties such as creditors, landlords and employees. Therefore, it is critical to have the right advisor on your team to guide you at every stage.
Creditor Representation in Bankruptcy
In these challenging times, you may find yourself being asked to respond to the bankruptcy filing of a customer, vendor or other service provider. Ms. Berschler can help you navigate the situation to protect your interest in the bankruptcy proceeding. Contact attorney Berschler to discuss the alternatives that may be available.
Registered Agent or Resident Agent
Ms. Berschler offers discreet, economical and comprehensive registered agent services for entities doing business in Maryland.
Software Licensing
As part of her intellectual property practice, Ms. Berschler provides businesses with software licensing representation to ensure your business has the proper licenses for the software it uses.
Attorney Barbara Berschler represents clients in Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia, including Rockville, Chevy Chase, Silver Spring, Baltimore, Columbia, Frederick, Upper Marlboro, Montgomery County, Prince George's County, Howard County, Baltimore County, Frederick County, Alexandria, Fairfax County, Arlington County and Loudoun County, as well as clients throughout the United States.
