Watch DeAnn at Her Desk: In less than two minutes, DeAnn explains what a registered agent is, why every LLC and corporation needs one, and why it’s an important part of protecting your business.

When you form an LLC or corporation, one of the requirements you’ll see is designating a registered agent. It’s not the most exciting part of starting or running a business, but it’s one of the most important.

So, what exactly is a registered agent?

A registered agent is the individual or company authorized to receive important legal and government documents on behalf of your business. Every LLC and corporation is required to maintain one in the state where it is registered.

These documents can include:

• Service of a lawsuit
• Subpoenas
• Government notices
• Wage garnishments
• Tax and regulatory correspondence
• Other official legal documents

The role of a registered agent is simple but critical: receive these documents promptly and make sure they get into the hands of the business owner so there is enough time to respond before important legal deadlines pass.

It’s More Than Just Receiving Mail

Many business owners think a registered agent simply forwards legal documents.

In reality, a registered agent serves as an important point of contact between your business and the state. Having a reliable registered agent helps ensure time-sensitive legal notices don’t fall through the cracks and allows business owners to focus on running their companies with confidence.

Many legal notices come with strict response deadlines. Missing a lawsuit, subpoena, or government notice because no one was available to receive it can have serious consequences, including default judgments, penalties, or other avoidable legal issues.

A Real-World Example

There have been reports of business owners listing their home address instead of using a registered agent service, only to have legal documents left on their front porch by a process server.

In one case, the owner never realized they had been sued because the documents disappeared before they were ever seen. By the time they learned about the lawsuit, it was too late to respond, resulting in serious legal and financial consequences.

How a Registered Agent Helps Protect Your Business

• Ensures important legal notices are received promptly
• Helps prevent missed deadlines and default judgments
• Keeps lawsuits and subpoenas from being served at your home or in front of employees and customers
• Maintains privacy and compliance with state requirements
• Gives you one less administrative responsibility to worry about

While some business owners choose to act as their own registered agent, many prefer the peace of mind that comes with having a professional service handle this important responsibility.

Protect Your Business

Whether you’re forming a new LLC, maintaining an existing corporation, or simply reviewing your business records, it’s worth confirming that your registered agent information is accurate and up to date.

At Chase Law Group, serving as a registered agent is one of the many ways we help protect our business clients. We see ourselves as more than legal counsel—we’re part of your team, helping ensure important legal documents are received promptly so you can stay informed, organized, and focused on running your business.

If you have questions about registered agent services or want to make sure your business is properly set up, we’re happy to help. Contact Chase Law Group at 310-545-7700 to learn more.

Don’t leave your business vulnerable!
Contact Chase Law Group

WWW.CHASELAWMB.COM
310-545-7700

_{Please note that this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice and does constitute an attorney-client relationship. It is recommended to consult with an attorney and your insurance carrier directly for specific guidance pertaining to your business and its practices.}