Business Card Req: Ownership Structure

I really don't know where to post this...

I was told (by a non-lawyer) that I legally must have my ownership structure (LLC) on my business card. My thoughts are that this is unfounded- unless we were using some sort of disclaimer line (for instance, "Company, LLC is an NASD/SIPC member" or "Company, LLC is a subsidiary of Parent-Company, Inc).

Note: We always used our company designation in legal documents and copyright lines The reason we don't for the business card is that we use a logotype for our branding.

'Anyone have some comments on this?

Karin

karinwaz said:

I really don't know where to post this...

I was told (by a non-lawyer) that I legally must have my ownership structure (LLC) on my business card. My thoughts are that this is unfounded- unless we were using some sort of disclaimer line (for instance, "Company, LLC is an NASD/SIPC member" or "Company, LLC is a subsidiary of Parent-Company, Inc).

Note: We always used our company designation in legal documents and copyright lines The reason we don't for the business card is that we use a logotype for our branding.

'Anyone have some comments on this?

Karin

Click to expand...

What kind of business are you in and why did the lawyer say that? My guess is that the lawyer meant that if you don't use the corporate name it is possible some might believe you are dealing not as the corporation but as an individual. I've never heard of that causing a problem but that isn't to say that someone, somewhere might have had this be of issue.

karinwaz said:

I really don't know where to post this...

I was told (by a non-lawyer) that I legally must have my ownership structure (LLC) on my business card. My thoughts are that this is unfounded- unless we were using some sort of disclaimer line (for instance, "Company, LLC is an NASD/SIPC member" or "Company, LLC is a subsidiary of Parent-Company, Inc).

Note: We always used our company designation in legal documents and copyright lines The reason we don't for the business card is that we use a logotype for our branding.

'Anyone have some comments on this?

Karin

Click to expand...

I believe thelawprofessor misread your post ... that it was a "NON-lawyer" who complained of the wording in your business card. Actually, the LLC designation would depend on your State's laws. Some States require it to be displayed, and some don't. The reason is that if anyone wanted to file a lawsuit or even check the status of a company for other reasons, the Secretary of State is usually where that person would go to find out more info. about the company. Individual business owners, LLC's, corporations, LP's, PC's, profit and non-profit, and the like are all treated differently when it comes to liability and taxation, so that's why some States require the designation when holding your services out to the public (letterhead, business cards, etc.). I would suggest calling your local Secretary of State as to the laws and discussing this particular issue. If you still have remaining questions after speaking with you local SOS, please feel free to post them, and we will try to assist in any way we can.