Practice Areas

Small Business Office Hours & Legal Counseling

Affordable, group-based legal guidance for freelancers, creators, and early-stage founders who need answers—not a $5,000 retainer.

Starting or running a small business comes with a lot of questions:

  • “Should I form an LLC or stay a sole proprietor?”
  • “What contracts do I actually need?”
  • “How do I protect my brand without spending a fortune?”
  • “A client hasn’t paid me—what are my options?”

If you’re not ready for full legal representation, but need real answers from a licensed attorney, our Small Business Office Hours are for you.

What Are Small Business Office Hours?
Small Business Office Hours are live, small-group video sessions hosted via RingCentral, where you can ask Attorney Lorraine Galvis your most pressing business and legal questions in a small, supportive setting. You’ll receive a secure video link after you register.

How it works:

  • Small groups: 5–10 participants per session
  • Live Q&A format: Bring your questions; get real-time answers
  • Affordable: $75–$100 per person, per session (a fraction of a typical consultation)
  • Topics covered:
    • Business formations (LLC, S-Corp, sole proprietor)
    • Contract basics
    • Trademark 101: Do I need one? How do I get one?
    • Getting paid: Invoicing, collections, and NYC’s Freelance Isn’t Free Act
    • General business strategy and next steps

Who should attend:

  • Freelancers and solopreneurs
  • Creators and influencers building a brand
  • Early-stage startups on a budget
  • Anyone who needs legal clarity but isn’t ready to hire a lawyer full-time

Upcoming Sessions

We announce new sessions via our email list. Sign up below to be notified when the next Office Hours session opens.

Join The Waitlist

Small Business Counseling Galvis and CoFAQs

Q: I’m not in New York or Connecticut. Can I still attend Office Hours?
A: Yes! Office Hours cover general business and legal strategy that applies nationwide, especially for trademark and business formation topics. (Note: We can only provide state-specific legal advice for NY and CT.)

Q: Will my questions be kept confidential?
A: Office Hours are group sessions, so questions are discussed openly (without sharing sensitive details). If you need confidential advice, book a private consultation.

Q: What if I can’t make the live session?
A: We do not provide recordings to protect participant privacy, but you can join the next session or book a private call.

Q: How is this different from hiring you as my lawyer?
A: Office Hours are educational and advisory—not formal legal representation. If your situation requires a lawyer-client relationship (like contract drafting or USPTO filings), we’ll let you know and can discuss next steps.