You Know Your Business. We Know the Law.
Protecting your business at every stage from startup to sale.
MEET KELLY BAGLA
San Diego’s Corporate and Business Attorney based in Carlsbad, California
Kelly is an international award-winning corporate and securities attorney who has been providing expert legal counsel to domestic and international clients for over 17 years. Kelly’s passion is helping entrepreneurs start, run, and grow their businesses with the right legal structure and the right legal contracts. Kelly has authored four books and has been recognized by prestigious publications for her achievement, innovation and determination in helping business owners.
I had the pleasure of working with Kelly Bagla on the sale of one of my businesses. Not only was the price fair but she went above and beyond. When I was ready to throw in the towel with a difficult buyer she calmed me down and guided me towards victory. I will use her for all my legal needs.
David Aguirre
I’ve known Kelly for over 10 years and she is a very professional and knowledgeable attorney. I know that I can reach out to her at any time for any reason and that she will be communicative and give me the peace of mind that I am looking for as one of her business-owner clients. Thanks for all you do, Kelly! I will continue to refer my clients to you when they are in need of an attorney.
Dylan McGrath
Working with Kelly was an absolute joy. With plans to start my own business, I contacted her to help me set up an LLC. She was very knowledgeable, responded to my questions quickly and handled everything from start to finish. The process was a breeze because of her knowledge and hard work. I HIGHLY recommend you reach out to Kelly!
Melissa Gonzalez
Within just a few hours of working with Kelly, I had solved problems and answered questions that had stressed me out for the last two years!
Thank you so much Kelly for making this process easier and being so awesome at what you do! I will definitely be sending friends and family your way
Mary E.
Legal Protection with Class. Excels at business formation and asset protection that keeps you out of trouble when it comes. And yes, it will come. This attorney you’ll actually enjoy working with. No BS. Kelly just gets it done with class.
John Biethan
Kelly was amazing in helping me with my business formation and filing my trademark. I have been looking for a business attorney for some time now and when I met Kelly, she immediately put me at ease and I love working with her.
Jacqui S.
Kelly was amazing. A combination of professionalism and charisma. She made me feel at ease throughout the entire process and was always available to answer questions. She has fair, flat rate pricing for large projects so there are no hidden/surprise costs. I would highly recommend her services to anyone looking for both asset protection and business startups!
Corey Drozdowski
Services
Latest News
- 1Sep
What are the most common mistakes of AI when drafting a Buy/Sell Agreement?
Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly changing the world, and the legal profession is no exception. AI-powered tools are now being used to draft contracts, including buy/sell agreements. While AI can be a valuable tool, it...13Jul5 Major tips when starting your first business
Starting a business is a big undertaking, but it can be incredibly rewarding. If you’re thinking about starting your own business, here are five major tips to help you get started: 1. Do your research.... - 13Jul
How can I protect my online business legally?
Starting an online business is an exciting prospect, but it’s important to be aware of the legal risks involved. Here are a few tips on how to protect your online business legally: 1. Choose the...13JulWhich state is the best state to register a corporation in the US?
When starting a new business, one of the most important decisions you will make is where to register your corporation. There are many factors to consider when making this decision, such as the state’s corporate... - 14Jun
How a Business Lawyer Can Help When Selling a Business
Selling a business can be a complex and intricate process that involves numerous legal considerations. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or a first-time business owner, enlisting the assistance of a skilled business lawyer can make...14JunHow a Business Lawyer Can Help in Buying a Business
Acquiring an existing business can be an exciting opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to expand their operations or venture into new markets. However, the process of buying a business can be complex and laden with legal... - 23May
The Risks of Starting a Business with Family Members
Starting a business with family members can be an attractive option for many entrepreneurs. It offers the opportunity to work with people you know and trust, and it can also be a way to keep...12AprWhat Are Bylaws in Corporations?
Introduction: In the world of business, the formation and governance of corporations play a significant role in ensuring stability and growth. A crucial aspect of corporate governance is the establishment and adherence to bylaws. This... - 13Mar
What to Include in Shareholder Agreements
A shareholder agreement is a legal document that outlines the rights and obligations of shareholders in a company. It is an essential document for any business with multiple owners, as it can help prevent disputes...6MarWhat to Do if You’re Ready to Sell Your Business
Selling a business can be an exciting and lucrative opportunity, but it can also be a complex and challenging process. From determining the value of your business to negotiating with potential buyers, there are a... - 27Dec
What is a Trust?
Trusts can be used for so many different things including estate planning, tax benefits, income in the case of disability or illness, passing on a family business, and asset protection. If you own a business,...19DecStrategies to Protect Your Assets as a Business Owner
If you’re planning to start a business, or you already own one, you’re probably wondering how to avoid future lawsuits. If you’re not wondering that, well you should be. Statistics show that 90% of all... - 25Nov
Will a Trust Protect my Assets from a Lawsuit in California?
If you own a business or property, you may be wondering how best to protect your assets from government seizure or creditors. Lawsuits can happen to any person and any business, but forming a trust...22SepBenefits of an LLC over a Corporation
Each business entity has its advantages and disadvantages. There isn’t an overall perfect business type; only a business type that is perfect for your business. Here, we’ll discuss the benefits of LLCs over corporations. Separation... - 15Sep
How to Form an LLC in San Diego
You’ve looked into the different business entity options and discussed your business goals with an experienced attorney. You’ve finally decided that you want to form an LLC, but now what? Here we’ll explain the steps...22AprWhat Type of Assets Should You Protect?
If you own any assets, you need asset protection. Protecting your assets is as important as acquiring them in the first place. If you do not protect your assets, all the hard work you put... - 24Feb
5 Important Things to Know about Setting up Your Corporation
Business owners of all types need to familiarize themselves with the concept of incorporating. No matter what kind of business you undertake or the service you provide, there are several significant benefits to becoming a...19FebHow Does a Non-Profit Corporation Work?
A non-profit corporation is a type of business entity. In contrast to other kinds of corporations, nonprofits exist for the benefit of some collective, social, or public benefit rather than to generate a profit for... - 12Feb
Business Litigation Dangers You Need to Know
As an owner of a small business avoiding the danger of litigation should be a top priority for you. Legal issues can take you by surprise and seriously hurt your bottom line. To help protect your business, watch for these common legal issues:8JanBEFORE STARTING A BUSINESS
By Kelly Bagla, Esq. Thinking about starting a business? If you are – Brilliant! Congratulations on taking control of your life and being part of the 31.7 million small businesses in the USA. Before jumping... - 6Dec
END OF YEAR LEGAL CHECKLIST FOR ALL BUSINESSES
The year is quickly coming to an end and as a small business owner, you’re probably already thinking about the new year and all of the exciting projects you have lined up. But before you...10NovFROM VETERAN TO BUSINESS OWNER
By Kelly Bagla, Esq. Did you know out of the 27.9 million businesses in the United States, 2.45 million of them are owned by Veterans? 70% of American consumers are more likely to buy from... - 5Oct
Employer’s Guide to COVID-19 Vaccination, Verifications, Exemptions
The world has been turned on its axis over the last 17 or so months as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Small businesses have been hit particularly hard and will continue to be harmed...24Sep3 Reasons Why This California Business Attorney Chose Carlsbad
Bagla Law Firm, a leading expert in business formation and asset protection, has been doing business in Carlsbad, California for more than a decade. Why did business attorney, Kelly Bagla, Esq. choose Carlsbad? And why... - 8Sep
DETAILS MATTER. ESPECIALLY IN LEGAL AGREEMENTS
Have you ever wondered if that contract you were reading actually needed all those legal terms? Every term, condition, and individual facet of a legally binding contract can make a world of difference. Wording can...9Aug2021 COVID-19 SUPPLEMENTAL PAID SICK LEAVE
With the 2021 COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave law, which became law effective March 29, 2021, many qualifying employees now have access to 80 hours of paid time off for virus-related reasons. Covered employees in... - 6Aug
MINIMUM WAGE LAW IN CALIFORNIA
With the new year comes new laws and the one that every employer needs to know is the minimum wage increase in California. The minimum wage is the minimum hourly rate that nearly all California...4AugMUST HAVE CHECKLIST FOR STARTUPS
Starting your own business can be a difficult task and complying with all of the legal requirements can be overwhelming. The following list includes the most important elements any startup should meet to avoid a... - 30Jul
WHAT IS A COPYRIGHT?
There is much confusion around what people can trademark or copyright. A copyright is a type of legal protection given to content creators and artists. When a person creates a story, a work of art,...26JulCHOOSING THE RIGHT STATE TO REGISTER YOUR BUSINESS IN 2021
The real question is: “Which State do you want to get sued in?” Embarking on a new business venture can be both challenging and rewarding. One of the biggest challenges a new business owner faces... - 23Jul
WHEN IS THE RIGHT TIME TO INCORPORATE?
Have you been thinking about starting a business or incorporating a business or an existing sole proprietorship? If so, you might be wondering what’s the best time to incorporate. Should you try to squeeze it...19JulSERVICE DOGS AND WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Many people with disabilities use a service animal in order to fully participate in everyday life. Dogs can be trained to perform many important tasks to assist people with disabilities, such as providing stability for... - 16Jul
HELPING YOUR KID START A LEGAL BUSINESS
Lemonade stands and lawn mowing are popular ways for kids to earn pocket change, but could they get in legal trouble for their entrepreneurial activities? Kids just want to be kids, but kids also want...15JulBUSINESS CONTRACTS POST COVID-19
Small business owners affected by COVID-19 know all too well the importance of written agreements in these uncertain times. What gets included, and what doesn’t, can make or break a small business when the unexpected... - 2Oct
COVID-19 LIABILITY WAIVERS
As we are nearing the holiday session, there is no clear date for businesses and activities to fully reopen across the United States and California. More and more attention has been given to what protections...2SepLegal Eagle – STARTING A BUSINESS IN AFTERMATH OF COVID-19
We are living during a strange time in history. In a matter of a few short months, our way of life has changed on a global scale. Businesses have had to change the way they operate in response to the coronavirus epidemic and it is certain that because of these changes things will never be the same. - 4Aug
BEST PRACTICES TO PROTECT YOUR TRADEMARK
Ferrari is notoriously protective of anything and everything that bears even a remote connection to the Ferrari brand and has, along the years, earned a reputation for being quick to fire cease and desists and...1JulLegal Eagle – CELEBRATING AMERICA AND AMERICAN MADE
As we celebrate the greatest country on earth – AMERICA, great businesses also should be celebrated, as some companies seem able to weather any storm – the dream of a true entrepreneur.
- 10May
Legal Eagle – Straight-forward legal tips for Military and Veteran Business Owners
By Kelly Bagla, Esq. CHESS – A GAME OR REALITY? If you want to learn about running a successful business then you’ll find no better teacher than a chess board. Chess is a game of...21FebCould This Be Your Business?
By Kelly Bagla, Esq. Margaret Thatcher once famously said, “If you want anything said, ask a man. If you want something done, ask a woman.” The number of female founders and owners of businesses has... - 21Feb
Fall In Love With Your Business
By Kelly Bagla, Esq. With each new year, entrepreneurs look to turn their vision into a business. These startups are often overflowing with tremendous ideas, energy and optimism, but don’t always have a roadmap for...21FebNew California Law Affecting Independent Contractors And Freelancers
By Kelly Bagla, Esq. California has done it again, making it even harder for independent contractors and freelancers to make a living in the State of California. Last year the California Supreme Court announced a... - 21Feb
Trademarks – What’s in a name?
By Kelly Bagla, Esq. Intellectual property law impacts every business, whether you know it or not. For example, the moment a name is used in relation to your business, your goods or services, certain trademark...1OctTrick Or Treat? Scary Government Regulations Every Business Must Know
By Kelly Bagla, Esq. No matter what type of business you run, you must comply with federal, state and local statues and regulations administered by legislative bodies and carried out by regulatory agencies. Some regulations... - 1Sep
LLC or S-Corporation? Which One’s Right For You?
By Kelly Bagla, Esq. As a business attorney, the number one question I am asked is: “Should I be an LLC or an S-Corporation?” The business structure, in terms of the legal entity you choose...1AugFunding Your Startup
By Kelly Bagla, Esq. Contrary to popular belief, money does not grow on trees. If you want to start your own business but do not have the funding, you can still get it off the... - 1Jul
Importance Of A Partnership Agreement
By Kelly Bagla, Esq. As a business attorney, I frequently encounter disputes between business partners, which can be easily avoided. Even the best of friends or close family friends should create and sign a business...1JunIs Your Website Legal?
By Kelly Bagla, Esq. It doesn’t take much these days to start your own website. In just a few simple steps and without ever learning a single word of code you can use intuitive website... - 1May
Legal Issues For The Entrepreneur
By Kelly Bagla, Esq. When it comes to starting a business, you might be a pro, but what about when it comes to working through all the legal issues you must consider as an entrepreneur...3AprSan Diego Veterans April 2019: INSIDE THIS ISSUE
April is designated as the Month of the Military Child, underscoring the important role military children play in the armed forces community.
The Month of the Military Child is a time to applaud military families and their children for the daily sacrifices they make and the challenges they overcome.
- 3Apr
SMALL BUSINESS LAWSUITS: WHAT ARE MY CHANCES OF GETTING SUED?
[img src=”/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2019/04/Homeland-cover.png” class=”aligncenter”] Starting and running your own business can be incredibly rewarding, but it is also inherently risky. Maybe you’re doing something entirely new and putting your money, time and dreams on the line...5FebGet It In Writing
[img src=”/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2019/02/Get-It-In-Writing-feature.png” class=”aligncenter”] With agreements being the cornerstone of most business arrangements, I am surprised by the number of business owners who continue to ignore the importance of putting it in writing – that’s right,... - 2Aug
Legal Tips for Veterans Thinking about Starting a Business
[img src=”/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2018/08/cover.jpg” class=”aligncenter”] Fact: People with military experience tend to make excellent entrepreneurs. Starting a business involves planning, making key financial decisions, and completing a series of legal activities. If you are a veteran or...6MayStarting a home-based business? Ask yourself these critical questions before launching
What do Amazon, the Walt Disney Co. and Apple have in common? Believe it or not, these iconic, mega-sized companies all started out as home-based businesses. For most entrepreneurs, this is a common—and best—starting point... - 3May
8 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ON STARTING A BUSINESS
Having been a start-up lawyer and entrepreneur, I have been asked many of the following questions over the years from entrepreneurs when starting their company.28MarSIGNING A BUSINESS CONTRACT?
We all overlook stupid stuff once in a while. That’s why professionals in many fields use checklists to help them do their jobs with greater confidence. - 9Feb
STARTING A BUSINESS
As a San Diego business attorney, I am frequently asked: “What type of business should I be?” It generally depends on what kind of business you want to conduct. The type of business entity should reflect the kind of business you do.9JanCHOOSING THE RIGHT BUSINESS ENTITY FOR YOU!
As a San Diego business attorney, I am frequently asked: “What type of business should I be?” It generally depends on what kind of business you want to conduct. The type of business entity should reflect the kind of business you do. - 10Oct
INDEPENDENT CONTRACTORS TOP 10 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
For many individuals, self-employment as an independent contractor can be a rewarding and satisfying career option. As is true with any employment relationship you enter, it’s important to understand the roles and responsibilities of everyone...10Oct20 MOST COMMON BUSINESS STARTUP QUESTIONS
In the months leading up to opening a business, there are hundreds of questions that come up. It’s part of the process to have questions that you want answered; it means your mind is dedicated... - 10Oct
10 BIG LEGAL MISTAKES MADE BY STARTUPS
As an attorney involved with startups, I have seen plenty of legal mistakes made by entrepreneurs and startup companies. The following are some of the more common and problematic legal mistakes we have seen. NOT...10OctTOP 10 BUSINESS PLAN MISTAKES
When it comes to creating a business plan that attracts investors, these tips will help you get it right the first time. Every business should have a business plan. Unfortunately, despite the fact that many... - 10Oct
CHECKLIST OF MUST HAVE CONTRACTS FOR STARTUPS
When you come up with an amazing idea for a new product, service, or anything else really, it’s a very exciting time. Having your very own startup is probably the most exciting time of your...10OctEXIT STRATEGY CHECKLIST
As a private business owner, you know that every major decision required careful thought and preparation; and what bigger decision is there than deciding to sell your business? To sell your business is not as... - 10Oct
THE FIVE MOST IMPORTANT ISSUES TO CONSIDER IN A BUY-SELL AGREEMENT
Business owners who have other partners, members, or shareholders need to consider what will happen to their ownership interest on retirement, death, divorce, or permanent disability. The same is true for co-owners of major investment...10OctHOW TO START A BUSINESS IN 8 STEPS
For those of you who have not already started a business, or are trying to figure out how best to start your business, this article will help you learn the 8 steps of the process.... - 9Oct
PIERCING THE CORPORATE VEIL
One of the biggest advantages to incorporating a business is the Owners enjoy protection from being held personally responsible for the debts and liabilities of the corporation. A “Corporate Veil” is created between the Owner’s personal assets and [...]9OctLIMIT YOUR LIABILITY AND PROTECT YOUR BUSINESS AND PERSONAL ASSETS: INCORPORATE!
The limitations of sole proprietorships. Many small business owners launch their companies as sole proprietorships. This means that you and your business are essentially one and the same. This also means that your assets and those of the business are also one and the same and [...] - 9Oct
INCORPORATING: THE KEY TO LIMITED LIABILITY AND PERSONAL PROTECTION
Many small business owners launch their companies as sole proprietorships in which they and their businesses are essentially one and the same. However, changing the format of a small business to a corporation can offer personal protection in case debts or […]8JunTop 10 Legal Mistakes Small Businesses Make That Prevents Them from Selling Their Business
In my extensive work with small businesses I have found a number of common legal issues that come up over and over again. This list describes the problems and options to avoid each. No formal [...]
- 8Jun
An Ounce of Prevention is Worth a Pound of Cure: Is Your Business in Compliance with the CA Healthy Workplace Healthy Family Act of 2014?
The California Healthy Workplaces Healthy Families Act of 2014 is now fully in effect, providing paid sick leave to employees as well as significant potential for liability for employer [...]
8Jun5 Legal Issues Faced by Businesses
As an owner of a small business, the danger of crippling litigation should be at the top of your priorities. Legal headaches can take you by surprise and severely hurt your bottom line. Here are [...]
- 23Mar
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