Do I Need a Lawyer to Start a LLC in Illinois?
Starting an LLC As often one of the smartest moves, you can make as a small business owner in Illinois. But here’s a big question: Do you really need a lawyer to form your LLC—or can you just do it yourself online?
The answer depends on how much protection you want. While you can file your own LLC paperwork, working with a lawyer ensure you’re legally covered from day one—and it may save you thousands in the long run.
What an LLC Does (and Doesn’t Do)
Not long ago, I met with a boutique business owner in Frankfort who had thought she was protected by just filing her LLC online. When a dispute with a client escalated, she learned the hard way that she had no Operating Agreement in place which meant her personal savings and home were at risk. We fixed it, but the stress and expense could have been avoided from the start.
This is exactly why understanding what an LLC actually does—and doesn’t do—is so important. On paper, an LLC can separate your personal assets from your business, but the protection only works if everything is set up correctly. Here’s what that really means for small businesses owners in Illinois.
An LLC (Limited Liability Company) Separate your business from your personal assets. That means if your business faces a lawsuit or debt, Your home, car and savings are generally protected.
But here’s the catch:
An LLC filing alone doesn’t cover you if your contracts are weak.
You still need an Operating Agreement to spell out ownership, responsibilities, and payouts.
If you make a Filing mistake, it can cause tax issues or even invalidate your liability protection.
Can you file an LLC yourself in Illinois?
Yes, you can file through the IllinoisSecretary of State website. But the forms are generic and don’t count for your unique business set up. That’s why many business owners run into problems like:
Forgetting to create an Operating Agreement (not required by the state, but crucial in court).
Not structuring the LLC for taxes correctly.
Using boiler plate online forms and contracts that don’t comply specifically with Illinois law.
Why Work With a Business Lawyer?
A lawyer doesn’t just “file the papers.” A good business lawyer will:
Draft a custom Operating Agreement that protects you fully under the law in disputes.
Ensure your LLC is structured correctly for liability and tax purposes.
Review or create contracts that prevent expensive problems.
Provide legal business strategy for growth and comprehensive business protection.
It’s not just about forming an LLC—it’s about building a firm foundation your can trust.
What About Starting a Business in Illinois (Beyond the LLC)?
Many people search for how to start a business in Illinois. An LLC is just one piece of the puzzle. You’ll also need:
An EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS.
A business bank account.
The right licenses or permits for your location and industry.
Custom contracts with clients, vendors, contractors or partners.
This is where working with a lawyer makes a huge difference—making sure all of the legal pieces fit together so you and your business are legally protected.
How Marketti Law Firm Helps Local Entrepreneurs
At Marketti Law Firm, we’ve worked with hundreds of small businesses across Frankfort, New Lenox, Mokena, Will County, and beyond. For one flat fee we:
File your LLC with the State of Illinois.
Draft a custom Operating Agreement specific to your unique business.
Set up custom contracts to protect you and your business from day one.
So you can focus on growing your business—not worrying about the legal.
Ready to launch your LLC with confidence? Schedule your free consultation with Marketti Law Firm today.