At Otto Edward Makmot Law Firm, our Business Law practice is dedicated to supporting businesses at every stage of their development, from startups to established corporations. Understanding the legal landscape is crucial for any business to thrive, and our team of experienced attorneys is here to provide the guidance and expertise needed to navigate the complexities of commercial law in Uganda. We offer a full spectrum of legal services tailored to meet the unique needs of each client, ensuring that your business operates smoothly and in full compliance with the law.

Services Offered:

1. Company Formation and Structuring:

   • We assist entrepreneurs and businesses in selecting the appropriate legal structure for their operations, whether it’s a sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC), or corporation. Our services include drafting and filing the necessary incorporation documents, advising on governance structures, and ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements. We help set the foundation for your business to grow sustainably.

2. Corporate Governance:

   • Good corporate governance is essential for the success and reputation of any business. Our team provides advice on establishing effective governance frameworks that comply with legal standards and best practices. We assist in drafting corporate bylaws, advising boards of directors, and ensuring that corporate decisions are made transparently and in the best interest of the company and its stakeholders.

3. Contracts and Agreements:

   • Contracts are the backbone of any business transaction. We offer comprehensive contract drafting, review, and negotiation services to ensure that your business agreements are legally sound and aligned with your interests. Whether it’s a supplier contract, partnership agreement, or employment contract, we ensure that your rights are protected, and potential risks are mitigated.

4. Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A):

   • Mergers and acquisitions can be complex and require careful legal planning and execution. Our firm provides end-to-end legal support for M&A transactions, including due diligence, negotiation, drafting of transactional documents, and post-merger integration. We work closely with our clients to ensure that their strategic goals are achieved while minimizing legal and financial risks.

5. Regulatory Compliance:

   • Operating a business in Uganda requires adherence to a wide range of regulatory requirements, including tax laws, environmental regulations, and industry-specific standards. We provide ongoing compliance support to ensure that your business meets all legal obligations. Our services include compliance audits, training, and representation in front of regulatory bodies if necessary.

6. Commercial Dispute Resolution:

   • Disputes are an inevitable part of doing business, but they don’t have to disrupt your operations. Our Business Law practice offers effective dispute resolution services, including negotiation, mediation, arbitration, and litigation. We strive to resolve disputes efficiently and amicably, preserving business relationships whenever possible. When litigation is unavoidable, we provide robust representation in court.

7. Intellectual Property Protection:

   • Protecting your business’s intellectual property (IP) is critical in today’s competitive market. We offer legal services related to the registration, protection, and enforcement of trademarks, copyrights, patents, and trade secrets. Our team ensures that your intellectual property assets are secure, allowing you to focus on innovation and growth.

8. Franchise and Distribution Law:

   • For businesses looking to expand through franchising or distribution, we provide specialized legal services to ensure that all agreements comply with Uganda’s laws and regulations. We assist with drafting franchise agreements, advising on franchise relationships, and resolving disputes between franchisors and franchisees.

9. Banking and Finance:

   • Our Banking and Finance team offers legal support for a wide range of financial transactions, including loan agreements, credit facilities, and investment contracts. We represent both lenders and borrowers, ensuring that all transactions are legally sound and aligned with our clients’ financial goals. We also provide advice on regulatory compliance and financial dispute resolution.

10. Tax Planning and Advisory:

    • Taxation is a critical aspect of business operations, and our firm provides expert advice on tax planning and compliance. We help businesses minimize their tax liabilities through strategic planning, while ensuring full compliance with Uganda’s tax laws. Our services include tax advisory, preparation of tax returns, and representation in tax disputes.