Business Formation & Structuring
Ian Andrew is a lawyer licensed in Ontario. IAN ANDREW LAW helps entrepreneurs and owner-managed businesses build strong legal foundations. Whether you are starting a new venture, restructuring, or planning for growth, I provide tailored legal advice on structuring that takes tax considerations into account — coordinated with your accountant or tax advisor where appropriate — and is designed to support clearer decision-making and help reduce the risk of future disputes.
Build a Strong Legal Foundation for Long-Term Success
Choosing the right structure is one of the most critical decisions a business owner makes. Proper structuring can help manage liability exposure, take tax considerations into account, and can support clearer decision-making among owners. A well-planned framework supports scalability and operational efficiency.
Strategic Structuring Services for Your Business
Incorporations and Corporate Reorganizations
I handle the full process of incorporating new businesses or reorganizing existing entities. This helps ensure your corporate structure aligns with your current goals and is flexible enough to adapt to future growth or changes in the law.
Holding-Company Structures
Implementing holding companies can be structured with tax considerations in mind, alongside asset protection and investment‑income management — with the specific tax implications addressed in coordination with your accountant or tax advisor.
Shareholder Agreements
A clear shareholder agreement sets the rules for ownership, decision-making, and dispute resolution. This document can help reduce the risk of conflict and support a clearer path for exit or succession if a partner leaves the business.
Owner-Managed Business Structuring
Tailoring the corporate structure specifically for owner-managed companies ensures that the setup aligns with personal estate-planning goals, operational needs, and family dynamics. I coordinate structures to support both business profitability, business objectives, estate-planning goals, and family planning considerations.
Who Needs Business Formation & Structuring?
Entrepreneurs launching a new startup
Existing businesses looking to reorganize with tax considerations in mind
Partners or shareholders requiring clear governance agreements
Business owners planning for future growth or sale
How the Process Works
Step 1: Evaluate Your Business and Personal Goals
IAN ANDREW LAW assesses your immediate operational needs, long-term growth objectives, and risk tolerance to determine the most suitable business structure.
Step 2: Design an Appropriate Corporate Structure
Based on the assessment, I recommend a structure — whether a simple corporation, a complex holding company, or a partnership — that addresses tax considerations and liability management in a way that fits your situation.
Step 3: Draft and Execute Essential Documents
I prepare and file the necessary incorporation documents and draft key agreements, such as shareholder agreements and by-laws, to govern the business.
Step 4: Coordinate with Tax and Financial Advisors
Structuring often has significant tax implications. I work with your accountants or financial advisors to ensure the legal structure integrates with your overall tax strategy.
FAQs: Business Formation and Structuring in Ontario
Should I incorporate or operate as a sole proprietorship?
Incorporation can support liability management and potential tax-planning advantages. The best choice depends on your income level, risk exposure, and growth plans.
What is the benefit of a holding company?
A holding company can help separate certain assets from the operating company’s business risks and support more tax-efficient reinvestment planning — with the specific tax implications addressed in coordination with your accountant or tax advisor.
Do I need a shareholder agreement if I have a partner?
Yes. Even with a great relationship, a shareholder agreement provides a roadmap for resolving disputes and handling unexpected events like death, disability, or retirement.
Start Your Business on the Right Foot
Proper legal structuring is an investment in your company's future stability and growth. Contact IAN ANDREW LAW to discuss your business formation and structuring needs.