Protecting Your Columbia Business from Day One: Key Contracts Every Company Needs

Starting or running a business in Columbia, South Carolina is an exciting and rewarding journey — but it also comes with legal challenges that can impact your success if not handled properly. One of the best ways to protect your business from the very beginning is by putting the right contracts in place.

At Ormond | Dunn Law Firm, we help business owners build strong legal foundations through carefully drafted agreements that protect your interests, define expectations, and prevent costly disputes before they arise. Whether you’re launching a startup or managing an established company, the contracts below are essential for long-term success.

1. Operating Agreement or Partnership Agreement

Every business with more than one owner should have a clear written agreement outlining ownership rights, profit distribution, and decision-making responsibilities.

• Why it matters: Without it, misunderstandings or disagreements can quickly turn into expensive disputes.
• How Ormond | Dunn Law Firm can help: Our attorneys draft comprehensive agreements that reflect your goals, define your structure, and protect your relationships as your business grows.

2. Employment Agreements

If your business has employees, a written employment agreement sets clear expectations from the start. These documents can cover compensation, job duties, confidentiality, non-solicitation clauses, and termination terms.

• Why it matters: Well-drafted employment contracts prevent confusion and reduce the risk of legal issues later on.
• How Ormond | Dunn Law Firm supports you: We help Columbia business owners develop employment contracts that are compliant with South Carolina law and tailored to your company’s unique needs.

3. Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs)

Protecting your business’s confidential information is vital — especially when sharing details with employees, contractors, or potential partners.

• Why it matters: NDAs safeguard proprietary information such as client lists, pricing structures, or business strategies.
• How Ormond | Dunn Law Firm adds value: We ensure your NDAs are clear, enforceable, and designed to protect your most valuable assets — your ideas and data.

4. Service or Vendor Agreements

If your business provides or receives services, you’ll need a contract that outlines responsibilities, payment terms, deliverables, and dispute resolution procedures.

• Why it matters: A well-structured service agreement ensures both sides understand their obligations and reduces the risk of unpaid invoices or unmet expectations.
• How Ormond | Dunn Law Firm helps: Our team reviews and prepares vendor and service contracts to make sure your rights are protected and your business relationships stay strong.

5. Client Contracts

Clear client contracts help manage expectations and protect your bottom line. These agreements should cover payment schedules, scope of work, timelines, and remedies for non-payment or breach.

• Why it matters: Even the best business relationships can face challenges — having a solid client contract in place helps avoid misunderstandings.
• How Ormond | Dunn Law Firm assists: We create client agreements that protect your business while maintaining a professional and transparent relationship with your customers.

6. Lease Agreements

Whether you’re renting office space or commercial property, your lease agreement should protect your rights as a tenant or landlord.

• Why it matters: Many business owners overlook key lease terms that can limit flexibility or increase costs down the road.
• How Ormond | Dunn Law Firm supports you: We review and negotiate commercial leases to ensure you fully understand your obligations — before you sign.

7. Succession or Buy-Sell Agreements

Planning for the future is just as important as managing the present. A succession or buy-sell agreement outlines what happens if an owner retires, passes away, or wishes to sell their share of the business.

• Why it matters: These agreements help ensure a smooth transition and protect both the business and its remaining owners.
• How Ormond | Dunn Law Firm can help: Our attorneys assist Columbia business owners with succession planning strategies that secure long-term stability.

Building a Strong Legal Foundation with Ormond | Dunn Law Firm

The right contracts do more than just manage risk — they empower your business to grow confidently, with clarity and protection at every stage.

At Ormond | Dunn Law Firm, we work closely with business owners in Columbia, South Carolina to craft contracts that fit your company’s goals, values, and operational needs. Whether you’re forming a new venture or refining your legal documents, our team is here to ensure your business is protected from day one and beyond.

📞 Call Ormond | Dunn Law Firm today at 803-805-2121 or visit www.ormonddunn.com to schedule a consultation.