Mistake 1

Getting Stuck Paying Ongoing Legal Fees

Some attorneys advertise flat-rate filings on their websites, but these offers often come with significant risks. You may unknowingly agree to be billed at exorbitant hourly rates for additional services, only to find that the work is performed by paralegals or clerical staff—not the attorneys themselves. Worse, these arrangements frequently lock you into predatory contracts, with your credit card saved on file, making it difficult to escape escalating costs. To avoid falling victim to such practices, it’s best to steer clear of lawyers who offer flat-rate services online, as these deals often result in unexpected expenses and minimal access to actual legal expertise.

For this reason, small business owners often prefer to limit a lawyer’s involvement during the business formation process. Instead, they consult a lawyer only when necessary, allowing them to better manage and control legal expenses.

Mistake 2

Assuming a Lawyer Will Form Your LLC

Legal services offering flat-rate LLC formations don’t necessarily use lawyers to do the work. Forming a business right takes time and it’s unlikely that the few lawyers who represent a formation service can handle yours personally. They often use support staff, but charge you lawyer rates. It is important to clarify that a lawyer will be personally giving you the legal guidance you want before purchasing a service.

Mistake 3

Hoping to Receive Actual Legal Help

Just because a company has “attorney” in their name doesn’t mean you’re getting access to an attorney or legal help. You may even incur additional fees if you require legal guidance. To understand what you’re paying for, remember to closely read the fine print. Even if consultation from an attorney is part of the service you are paying for, it is important you understand how much support you will be provided when you encounter legal issues.

Mistake 4

Not Researching DIY Options

LLCs are simple and straightforward business structures that often don’t require an attorney’s involvement during the initial setup. In fact, we offer a free operating agreement and a detailed guide to help you file your Florida LLC independently with the state. This approach allows you to save money by completing the formation process yourself and, if needed, hire an attorney later to review your documents—an option that is typically much more affordable than engaging a lawyer for the entire process.

For those who prefer a quicker, hassle-free experience, there are affordable, non-lawyer services designed to streamline LLC formation. These services enable entrepreneurs to take a DIY approach while maintaining control over their budget and decision-making.

Use our free online tool to complete your Articles of Organization. Just download, print, and mail to the FL Secretary of State with the state filing fee, or save your progress and come back later.

Mistake 5

Hiring a National Law Firm

Be extra cautious when dealing with LLC attorneys who offer business formation services across multiple states. These companies often rely on third-party law firms to establish a presence in each state, which can result in higher costs compared to services that handle all aspects in-house.

Before you hire a service, inquire as to what address in Florida they will be using to file your documents. We recommend researching which law firm is located at this address. If it is not the one you are paying, then you are likely getting overcharged.

Mistake 6

Relying on an Attorney for Compliance

To maintain good standing with the state, your LLC must file an annual report and designate a registered agent. Fortunately, you don’t need an attorney to handle these tasks. Filing your annual report is straightforward, and you can either do it yourself or use a more affordable filing service.

Designating a registered agent is a mandatory step for doing business in Florida, as they receive important legal and state documents on your behalf. While many new business owners focus on the initial setup costs, they often overlook the recurring annual fees for this service. Some attorneys charge hundreds of dollars per year to act as a registered agent, but this isn’t necessary. You can hire a local registered agent service to handle this responsibility at a much lower cost, saving you money without sacrificing quality.

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We’ll Support Your Business as it Grows

Manage and pay for registered agent, domain name, website, phone, and more using a single account. Web and phone services are free for 90 days or more. Keep them all for just $28.80/month! Cancel anytime.

Business Email

We provide a dedicated business email address attached to the domain of your choosing. Inspiring trust in your customers.

Customizable Website

Get your business online with a website that belongs to YOU. Our website team will walk you through the setup process at no charge.

Business Phone

We offer a virtual phone number with a local area code of your choosing, keeping your personal phone number private.

Domain Name

Make it easy for your customers to find you with a domain name that matches your brand. Free for 1 year.

Virtual Office

Run your business from anywhere with unlimited mail scans, along with an office lease for your unique business address.

Conference Rooms

Give your business a professional appearance by using our conference rooms to meet with customers.

The Best Rated Florida LLC Service