[FL] Is it smart to list your lawyer on LLC paperwork?
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1. Added Cost
Attorneys typically charge an annual fee for serving as a registered agent or public contact. If you’re a small startup or just getting established, this can become a recurring expense that adds up over time.
2. Indirect Communication
All official notices — such as legal service of process, compliance letters, or annual report reminders — will go to your attorney first, not you. Unless you have a clear system for immediate forwarding, you risk missing deadlines or important correspondence if your lawyer’s office is delayed in notifying you.
3. Dependence on One Provider
If your attorney retires, changes firms, or you switch representation, you’ll have to update your LLC’s information with the Florida Division of Corporations. Failing to do so could cause your company to lose good standing or miss renewal deadlines.
4. Public Record Visibility
Your attorney’s address and phone number will appear on Sunbiz.org, Florida’s public database. That means marketing solicitations, junk mail, or process servers may all go to your lawyer’s office — which can become inconvenient for both parties.
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What are the negatives to listing an attorney as the point of contact for public filings of my LLC in Florida?
I understand your concern. Have you encountered any specific challenges or issues with listing an attorney as the point of contact for your LLC in Florida?
No, I haven’t encountered an issue. I’m just seeking advice to determine the best setup for my LLC.
Are you looking to explore alternative options for the point of contact for your LLC’s public filings in Florida?
Yes.
Is there anything else the corporate lawyer should know before I connect you?
No.
Hello, I’m Richard. What kind of company is it?
It’s either going to be a Corporate Event Planning Company or an “Outfitter” — coordinating all-inclusive hunting, fishing, and outdoor events.
Got it. Here are some potential downsides to listing your attorney as the public point of contact (i.e., registered agent or contact person) on your Florida LLC filings:
1. Added Cost
Attorneys typically charge an annual fee for serving as a registered agent or public contact. If you’re a small startup or just getting established, this can become a recurring expense that adds up over time.
2. Indirect Communication
All official notices — such as legal service of process, compliance letters, or annual report reminders — will go to your attorney first, not you. Unless you have a clear system for immediate forwarding, you risk missing deadlines or important correspondence if your lawyer’s office is delayed in notifying you.
3. Dependence on One Provider
If your attorney retires, changes firms, or you switch representation, you’ll have to update your LLC’s information with the Florida Division of Corporations. Failing to do so could cause your company to lose good standing or miss renewal deadlines.
4. Public Record Visibility
Your attorney’s address and phone number will appear on Sunbiz.org, Florida’s public database. That means marketing solicitations, junk mail, or process servers may all go to your lawyer’s office — which can become inconvenient for both parties.
I hope this helps clarify the pros and cons. If you have any other questions, feel free to ask.
Okay, thank you.
No problem!
If I wanted to contact an attorney about being my public point of contact, what would that be called? I understand there’s a “registered agent” fee for attorneys — but what specific service should I ask for if I want them to be my public contact?
There really isn’t a formal name for that service. You would simply be hiring an attorney on retainer to serve as your registered agent or designated public contact for your LLC. It’s a common request — just let them know you’d like them to act as the public point of contact for your business filings and correspondence.
