Starting and growing a business can be an exciting journey, but it can also be a daunting one. There are a lot of legal considerations and potential pitfalls to navigate, and many entrepreneurs may not know where to start. That's where a trusted legal advisor can come in.
Adam Williams is the owner and founder at Rust Belt Law Firm, which provides legal services and business advice to small businesses and entrepreneurs. They work with businesses at all stages of development, from those just starting out to established businesses looking to expand or transition to the next generation.
One of the biggest benefits of working with a law firm like Rust Belt is that they can help entrepreneurs avoid legal issues down the road. "Most small business owners don't know what they don't know," Williams said. "They could be lining themselves up for issues and problems in the future that can cost a whole lot of money that we can prevent."
But Rust Belt doesn't just provide legal advice. They also strive to be trusted advisors to their clients, offering guidance and referrals to help businesses grow and succeed. Many of their employees have owned or worked for small businesses themselves, so they understand the challenges and issues that keep entrepreneurs up at night.
One area where Rust Belt has been particularly helpful during the pandemic is with government assistance programs like the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and the Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC). Many businesses were unsure how to navigate these programs and ensure they were taking full advantage of the available benefits. Rust Belt helped businesses across the country with these programs, including the relatively unknown ERTC.
One of Rust Belt's clients, the Brewerie at Union Station in Erie, PA, is a great example of a successful local business, as well as a longtime client and friend to Rust Belt Legal. The Brewerie is not only a successful business but also an active member of the community, with owner Chris Sirianni involved in many local initiatives.
While working with a law firm may not be the first thing that comes to mind when starting a business, it can be an incredibly valuable resource. By working with a trusted legal advisor, entrepreneurs can avoid costly legal issues and receive guidance and referrals to help their businesses succeed. Rust Belt Law Firm is one such advisor that provides both legal services and business advice to help small businesses and entrepreneurs thrive.
