Forming a limited liability company (LLC) in New York provides business owners with legal protection and a flexible management structure. Entrepreneurs can register an LLC with the New York Department of State by choosing a name, designating a registered agent, and filing Articles of Organization. Whether launching a startup or formalizing an existing partnership, an experienced business law attorney can guide you through the LLC formation process and position your business for long-term success.
Why Clients Choose Kohan Law Group
Business formation is more than just paperwork—it’s about creating a structure that supports your goals and shields you from risk. At Kohan Law Group, we guide business owners through every stage of LLC formation with precision and foresight.
What sets us apart:
- Strategic planning tailored to your business model and growth goals.
- Experience with multi-member LLCs, family-owned businesses, and professional entities.
- In-depth understanding of New York’s filing and publication requirements.
- Guidance on operating agreements, capital contributions, and management roles.
- Seamless coordination from formation through ongoing compliance.
We’ll make sure your LLC is built on a strong legal foundation—so you can focus on running your business.
Steps to Forming an LLC in New York
Starting an LLC in New York involves several legal and administrative steps:
- Choose a unique business name that meets state naming requirements.
- Designate a registered agent to receive legal documents.
- File Articles of Organization with the Department of State and pay the filing fee.
- Complete New York’s publication requirement, which involves publishing formation notices in two local newspapers for six consecutive weeks.
- Prepare an operating agreement, even if you are the sole member—this document defines how your LLC will function.
Completing these steps properly not only ensures compliance but also protects your limited liability status.
Do I Need an Operating Agreement for an LLC?
An operating agreement is the backbone of your LLC. It defines ownership percentages, management responsibilities, voting rights, and profit distributions. Without one, New York’s default laws apply—and they may not reflect what you and your partners intended.
Our attorneys help draft and review operating agreements that:
- Minimize the risk of internal disputes.
- Clarify how decisions will be made and how profits will be shared.
- Address buyouts, capital contributions, and dissolution procedures.
A well-drafted operating agreement can prevent misunderstandings and provide stability as your business grows.
What Are the Benefits of an LLC?
One of the main advantages of forming an LLC is limited personal liability. Owners (members) are generally not personally responsible for the company’s debts or obligations.
For professionals or investors in New York real estate, this liability protection makes the LLC a preferred structure.
How to Handle Ownership Changes and Disputes
Even well-planned businesses encounter change. Adding or removing members, reallocating ownership, or resolving disputes requires careful attention to both the operating agreement and state law.
We assist clients in:
- Drafting amendments for ownership changes.
- Resolving member disputes before they escalate.
- Preparing buy-sell agreements
- Managing transitions during mergers, acquisitions, or dissolutions.
By addressing potential issues early, you can protect both your investment and your company’s reputation.
Legal Help for Forming LLCs in New York
At Kohan Law Group, we bring both foresight and legal depth to every business formation. Our team has represented entrepreneurs, real estate investors, and professional partnerships across New York in entity selection, operating agreements, and related disputes. When you partner with us, we provide the individualized attention your business deserves, supported by a litigation-ready team when conflicts arise. Contact us today for a consultation.
FAQs About LLC Formation in New York
What is the publication requirement for a New York LLC?
After forming your LLC, you must publish notices of its formation in two local newspapers for six consecutive weeks and then file a Certificate of Publication with the Department of State.
Can a single person form an LLC in New York?
Yes. New York allows single-member LLCs, which provide the same liability protection as multi-member entities. You’ll still need to create an operating agreement and comply with all filing requirements.
What happens if LLC members disagree on major decisions?
Disputes are resolved in accordance with the operating agreement. If no agreement exists or the terms are unclear, state law governs. Legal counsel can help interpret the agreement and mediate or litigate when necessary.