Clients
The SBC offers clients no-cost assistance (other than outside fees and costs) in selecting and forming a legal entity, drafting bylaws and partnership and LLC agreements, developing shareholder agreements, drafting contracts, evaluating business legal issues and filing for federal tax-exempt status. Because the clinic is a free service, and its services are in high demand, the SBC's resources require that it limit the number of cases it takes on each semester.
Each potential client is interviewed by the SBC director, often along with a law student. After this initial consultation, the SBC will determine whether the SBC can accept a case. A prospective client will be notified by telephone or mail of the SBC's decision. Whether or not the SBC accepts a case is based upon several factors, including the complexity of the case, the size and variety in the SBC case load, and whether the client has a business plan. Once accepted for representation, the SBC student assigned to the case will prepare a formal Engagement Letter with the client, clearly defining the specific project to be completed.
Once a case has been accepted and the client has agreed to the terms of, and signed the Engagement Letter, the SBC will begin work on the matter. Draft or final documents can usually be delivered to the client within several weeks, depending on the complexity of the matter and the client's diligence and attention to the case. In order to accomplish this, the client should promptly review and return draft copies of documents to the student with the client's corrections or feedback. Clients need to attend scheduled meetings with the student assigned to the case, and call the student if they need to cancel a scheduled meeting. There is no charge for the SBC's services. However, the client is responsible for filing all legal papers with the appropriate government agency and paying any and all filing fees and other costs associated with the work performed. The SBC reserves the right to terminate its relationship with any client who is not an active and positive participant in any matter, including any client who is not complying with requests for information or neglects to call when they cannot attend a scheduled meeting.
The Clinic does not serve as ongoing legal counsel for any business. Legal services are provided on a short term basis. Clients may reapply for SBC services with respect to subsequent matters or any matters not handled by the initial engagement.
