Frequently Asked Questions

In this section, we’ve gathered the most common questions applicants ask when it comes to business immigration to Canada, starting and managing a business, or resolving legal disputes.

If you don’t find the answer you’re looking for, simply fill out the contact form and the Shekarian Law Group team will review your case in detail and provide tailored guidance.

What should we prepare before a consultation?

Your cap table (even if informal), founder roles, any existing incorporation documents, key contracts (customers/vendors), IP overview (domain, code, brand assets), and your next 3–6 month business plan.

Can you help if we already incorporated but our documents are messy?

Yes. We can review your existing structure, clean up corporate records, address IP gaps, and update founder/shareholder arrangements so you become investor-ready.

Does the bundle include fundraising documents like SAFEs or convertible notes?

The bundle provides a strong legal foundation. Fundraising instruments (SAFE/convertible note rounds) can be handled as a separate scope depending on your stage, investor terms, and cap table complexity.

Employees vs contractors—does it matter legally?

Yes. Misclassification can create tax and employment liabilities. The right contract structure also affects IP ownership, confidentiality, and termination risk.

Do we need NDAs with everyone we talk to?

Not always. NDAs are useful in specific contexts (strategic partners, contractors, sensitive disclosures), but many investors won’t sign NDAs. We help you choose the right approach.

Why is IP assignment so important for startups?

Investors and buyers want clarity that the company owns its core IP. If IP remains with founders, contractors, or prior entities, it can delay or derail fundraising and exits.

What’s the biggest legal mistake founders make early?

Not documenting equity and roles clearly (or leaving it “informal”). This creates avoidable conflict, messy cap tables, and problems during fundraising or acquisition due diligence.

Do we really need a shareholders’ agreement at an early stage?

Yes. Even with a small founding team, a foundational shareholders’ agreement helps prevent disputes by clarifying decision-making, ownership, transfers, and exit scenarios.

Federal or Ontario incorporation—how do we choose?

It depends on where you’ll operate, how you plan to expand, and your governance/tax considerations. We help you choose based on growth plans and operational footprint.

Is there a separate “startup legal bundle” requirement in Canada?

No. The bundle is a practical package of core legal building blocks that most startups need early to reduce risk, clarify ownership, and be ready for investors.

Shekarian Law PC is a professional corporation licensed by the Law Society of Ontario. We provide strategic legal counsel to founders, investors, and companies building, expanding, and operating in Canada, including cross-border and regulatory matters.