
Resource Center
Stay in the know with the latest news and expert insights from StartSmart Counsel. Our dedicated team of advisors regularly shares valuable updates, industry trends, and business wisdom to help you navigate the entrepreneurial journey. Explore our curated collection of news articles and blog posts to gain valuable insights and stay ahead in your startup endeavors.


OCC Clarifies Bank Authority to Engage in Crypto-Asset Custody and Execution Services
The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) has issued Interpretive Letter #1184, confirming that national banks and federal savings associations are allowed to offer and outsource crypto-asset custody and execution services. This guidance offers important clarification about how banks can legally engage in digital asset services while following existing regulations.

Lessons from the Field: Legal Challenges Faced by First-Time Fund Managers
Launching your first investment fund is an exciting milestone—but it’s also a legal minefield if you’re not prepared. From fundraising compliance to fund governance, first-time fund managers often encounter hurdles that can delay launches, damage investor confidence, or trigger regulatory issues.

Building Legal Infrastructure for Multi-Fund Strategies
As fund managers grow and evolve, many expand from a single fund into a multi-fund platform. Whether it’s launching follow-on funds, sector-specific vehicles, or co-investment opportunities, managing multiple funds requires more than just ambition—it demands a solid legal foundation.

Choosing a Registered Agent: What Startups Need to Know
Establishing a strong legal foundation is critical for any startup, and selecting the right registered agent is a key component of this process. A registered agent serves as your startup’s official point of contact for receiving legal documents, government correspondence, and compliance notifications. This article outlines why registered agents matter, what startups should consider when selecting one, and how the decision impacts long-term business operations.

Common Legal Mistakes Startups Make in Miami (And How to Avoid Them)
Launching a startup is an exciting endeavor, but legal oversights during the early stages can lead to costly consequences. Founders who fail to address key legal considerations risk jeopardizing their intellectual property, investor relationships, and long-term growth potential.
This article outlines the most common legal mistakes new startups make and provides guidance on how to avoid them. The content is tailored for startup founders, small business owners, and venture capital professionals navigating the Miami business landscape.

LLC vs. C-Corp: What's Best for Your Startup?
Choosing the appropriate legal structure is a foundational decision for any startup. Among the most common choices are the Limited Liability Company (LLC) and the C Corporation (C-Corp). Each structure offers distinct advantages and drawbacks that can significantly impact your company’s financing, taxation, and long-term growth strategy.
This article provides a comprehensive comparison of LLCs and C-Corps, with a focus on the unique needs of startup founders, venture capitalists, and small business owners in Miami and beyond.

The Legal Steps to Take After Forming Your LLC or C-Corp
Establishing an LLC or C-Corporation is a critical first step in launching a legally compliant and scalable startup. However, many founders mistakenly believe that forming an entity is the end of the process. In reality, incorporation is just the beginning of a broader legal framework necessary to operate a business successfully—especially in Miami's fast-paced, startup-driven market.
This guide outlines the essential post-formation legal steps for startup founders and venture capital professionals to protect their business, attract investors, and ensure regulatory compliance.
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