The best legal resources for businesses include professional legal counsel, government agencies, affordable online legal services, and legal research platforms. These resources offer guidance on a range of issues, from formation and compliance to ongoing operations. 

Professional Legal Counsel

• Attorneys: Experienced attorneys can provide tailored advice, help with critical decisions like choosing a business structure, and proactively identify potential legal problems, which is often cheaper than solving issues after they arise.
• State Bar Associations: These associations provide directories to help you find qualified, local attorneys who specialize in business law.
• Local Bar Associations and Industry Groups: These groups can offer niche insights, networking events, and publications specific to your industry or region. 

Government Resources

• U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA): An independent federal agency dedicated to aiding, counseling, assisting, and protecting the interests of small businesses. Their website provides extensive guidance and connections to local resources.
• Internal Revenue Service (IRS): Provides information and the application portal for obtaining a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN), which most businesses require for tax purposes and to hire employees. The IRS website has online application information.
• Federal Trade Commission (FTC): The Bureau of Consumer Protection Business Center offers guidance on complying with FTC law, covering topics like advertising, privacy, and security. The FTC Business Center is a great starting point.
• Secretary of State (State Level): This office typically handles business formation documents like articles of organization or incorporation, providing necessary forms and filing information.
• Local Government: City and county offices can provide information on local licensing and permit requirements specific to your business and location. 

Affordable Online Legal Services 

These services are a great option for startups and small businesses needing affordable assistance with common legal tasks:

• LegalZoom: Offers an extensive free knowledge center, an attorney directory, and services for specific needs like LLC filing, trademarks, and intellectual property protection.
• Rocket Lawyer: Provides affordable legal consulting, document review, lawyer consultations, and document templates for various needs, including business formation.
• LegalShield: Offers flat-rate monthly plans for on-demand legal consultation services, document review, and assistance with collections. 
• ZenBusiness: An online business‑formation and compliance platform that helps entrepreneurs form LLCs, corporations, and other entities.

Advanced Legal Research Platforms

For businesses with in-house legal teams or complex needs, these platforms are industry standards for comprehensive legal research and analytics: 

• Westlaw Edge/Precision (Thomson Reuters): Offers extensive legal news, information, and data analysis tools.
• Lexis+ (LexisNexis): A global provider of legal, regulatory, and business information and analytics to support decision-making and productivity.
• Bloomberg Law: Provides a comprehensive network of financial data, news, and analysis to help navigate complex challenges. 

Key Legal Documents and Actions for Businesses

Regardless of the resources used, certain legal steps are essential for most businesses:

• Choosing a Legal Structure: Determine whether to operate as a sole proprietorship, LLC, corporation, etc., as each has different tax and liability implications.
• Obtaining an EIN: Apply for a federal Employer Identification Number from the IRS.
• Filing Formation Documents: File necessary articles of organization (for LLCs) or articles of incorporation (for corporations) with the state.
• Securing Licenses and Permits: Ensure you have all necessary local, state, and federal permits to operate legally