Starting a business can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to the legal requirements. This presentation will highlight six key areas entrepreneurs should be aware of to avoid traps and pitfalls associated with their new business: protecting intellectual property, forming and financing your business, employment issues, negotiating contracts, and hiring professional service providers.

Laura Pryor is an associate in the Lafayette office of Allen & Gooch. She received her law degree in 2011 from Louisiana State University after graduating cum laude. After being admitted to the bar, she served as law clerk to the Honorable Marilyn C. Castle, 15th Judicial District Court, State of Louisiana. Laura’s practice is focused on employment law, commercial litigation, and small business representation. Laura is actively involved in the community as a member of the 705 Young Leaders of Acadiana, the Acadiana Entrepreneur Group, the Lafayette Bar Association, and INNOV8. She serves as a Member of the Lafayette Volunteer Lawyers Committee and volunteers for the Counsel on Call Program. Laura is also a Race Board Member of the Susan G. Komen Acadiana Affiliate.

Jessica Allain is an associate in the Lafayette office of Allen & Gooch. She earned her law degree magna cum laude at the Louisiana State University Paul M. Hebert Law Center, where she served as the Online Editor of the Louisiana Law Review. Jessica’s practice is focused on commercial transactions and strategic business planning. As an active member in the community, Jessica is involved in the 705 Young Leaders of Acadiana, the Acadiana Entrepreneur Group, the Junior League of Lafayette, the Lafayette Bar Association, and INNOV8. Jessica volunteers for the Counsel on Call program and serves as the President of the Lafayette Industrial Development Board.