Looking for trusted counsel in Los Angeles? These top-rated firms support startups, SMBs, and entrepreneurs with transparent pricing, practical expertise, and strategic legal guidance—from formation to litigation.
Carbon Law Group, APLC
A highly-rated boutique firm based in Los Angeles known for its focus on startups, intellectual property (IP), and general corporate counsel. They frequently work with founders on entity formation, fundraising documentation, and protecting creative assets in the LA market.
Great for: Startups, freelancers, and businesses needing IP protection (trademarks/copyrights) and early-stage corporate setup.
Structure Law Group, LLP
A multi-office firm with a strong Los Angeles presence, specializing in transactional law, corporate finance, and the “total life-cycle approach” for growth companies. They assist with stakeholder relationships, venture financing, and managing complex equity incentive programs.
Great for: Growth-stage companies, venture-backed startups, and founders needing complex financing and equity structuring.
Duane Morris – Los Angeles
An integral part of a global network, the Los Angeles office provides sophisticated services in corporate law, M&A, complex litigation, and intellectual property. They are ranked nationally for their work and advise both early-stage and mature companies on multi-state and international matters.
Great for:Mid-market companies, M&A, complex corporate transactions, and businesses facing high-stakes litigation or bankruptcy matters.
California business law is significantly more regulated than states like Nevada or Arizona. Los Angeles entrepreneurs should expect additional compliance requirements related to entity maintenance (including the $800 minimum franchise tax), strict independent contractor rules, and unique city-level gross receipts taxes. These factors make early legal guidance essential.
California’s employment laws, including AB5 and worker classification standards, impact nearly every LA business—especially in the gig economy, creative agencies, and production houses. Misclassification issues are a primary source of litigation for local founders; ensuring your “freelancers” are legally classified is a top priority.
Commercial leases in Los Angeles are high-stakes and highly varied. Whether you are leasing a creative warehouse in the Arts District or a retail storefront in Beverly Hills, navigating city-specific zoning, “Change of Use” permits, and complex lease terms requires a local expert to avoid costly delays.
If you simply need to form a California LLC or corporation quickly, LegalZoom offers a streamlined and affordable option for basic entity formation and standardized filings.
Straightforward entity formation
Solo founders and early-stage businesses
Founders who don’t yet need custom contracts or legal strategy
Custom operating agreements involving multiple partners or investors
Entertainment-specific contracts and IP licensing
Commercial leases and high-stakes real estate negotiations
Employment defense and PAGA compliance
Venture capital readiness and securities law
Many LA founders use LegalZoom initially, then transition to local counsel as the business grows or becomes more complex.
Downtown LA & Century City
Santa Monica & Venice
Hollywood & Burbank
Pasadena & Glendale
South Bay & Long Beach
Including this broader service area helps founders find relevant legal support even if their business operates across multiple desert cities.
Los Angeles business owners benefit most when legal decisions are made proactively. Whether you’re protecting a screenplay, forming a tech startup, or negotiating a lease, the right legal structure is the foundation of your success.
If you need help navigating options, Hustler’s Library can help connect you with a provider who is best for your company’s needs.
Entrepreneurs in Los Angeles should consider hiring a business lawyer from the very beginning of their venture, often even before formation. Key times include: Business Formation (choosing the right structure, especially given California’s rules), Contract Drafting & Review (creating or signing agreements with clients, vendors, employees, or partners), and Compliance & Licensing (navigating local LA City Business Tax and complex state regulations). Early legal advice can prevent costly problems down the line, saving time and money.
Business lawyers in Los Angeles, like in many major coastal cities, command high rates, but offer various billing methods. Hourly Rates are traditional but premium. Flat Fees are common for routine services like LLC formation or simple contracts. Retainers are used for ongoing work. Due to the competitive market, many boutique and mid-sized firms offer Subscription/Monthly Packages or Hybrid arrangements (reduced hourly rates plus a success fee) that are ideal for startups seeking budget predictability. Always discuss fees and get a clear engagement letter outlining all costs upfront.
While truly “free” comprehensive legal services are limited, several resources offer low-cost or pro bono assistance in Los Angeles. University Law Clinics (e.g., UCLA, USC) may have programs offering free or low-cost legal services to small businesses or startups. Local non-profit business development centers and the Small Business Administration (SBA) often provide initial consultations or referrals. Many law firms offer a free initial consultation (15-30 minutes); use these strategically to gather information and assess potential lawyers.
To make the most of a lawyer consultation, Los Angeles business owners should ask: What is your experience with businesses like mine (industry, e.g., entertainment, tech, real estate)? How do you specifically handle California-specific issues like AB 5/Worker Classification, PAGA, or LA City business permits? How do you typically bill for services, and can you provide an estimate of the total cost? What is the timeline for resolving this issue or completing this task?