Do I Need a Lawyer to Incorporate in BC?

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‍Short answer: No, you don’t need a lawyer to incorporate a business in British Columbia—but having one can help you avoid costly mistakes and set your company up for long-term success.

If you’re a small business owner or entrepreneur in BC, incorporating your company is a big step. It’s exciting—but it’s also a legal process with long-term implications. While it’s true that you can incorporate your business online through the BC government’s website, many business owners in Vancouver and across the province choose to work with a lawyer to ensure they get it right the first time.

So, let’s break it down: when is it okay to DIY your incorporation, and when should you hire a lawyer?

What Does Incorporating a Business in BC Actually Mean?

Incorporation is the process of creating a legal entity—a corporation—that exists separately from you as the owner. This provides limited liability protection, meaning your personal assets are typically protected if the business is sued or faces debt.

In British Columbia, you can incorporate:

Provincially, through BC Registries (only for businesses operating primarily in BC)
Federally, through Corporations Canada (if you plan to operate across multiple provinces or internationally)

Can I Incorporate in BC Without a Lawyer?

Yes, you can incorporate a company in BC without hiring a lawyer. The BC government offers an online incorporation service that walks you through the basic steps.

But here’s the catch: the government site only files your incorporation paperwork. It doesn’t help you:

Set up proper share structures
Draft shareholder agreements
Navigate tax planning
Ensure you’re compliant with the Business Corporations Act (BC)

These are all critical decisions that affect how your business runs, who controls it, and how future disputes will be handled.

When Should You Hire a Lawyer to Incorporate?

Here are some common scenarios when hiring a business lawyer is a smart move:

✅ You’re starting a business with one or more partners

Disputes between co-founders are one of the top reasons startups fail. A lawyer can help draft a shareholder agreement—a legal contract that outlines each partner’s rights, responsibilities, and what happens if someone wants out.

✅ You plan to raise investment

Investors will want clean and well-structured incorporation documents, including proper share classes, resolutions, and clear ownership structures. Mistakes here can scare off funders or cause delays later.

✅ You’re concerned about tax planning or liability

A lawyer (working with your accountant) can help you choose a corporate structure that supports your business goals—whether that’s minimizing taxes, reducing personal risk, or preparing for future M&A (mergers and acquisitions).

✅ You want to avoid costly legal mistakes

DIY incorporation can save a few hundred dollars upfront—but it might cost you thousands to fix errors later.

What Does a Lawyer Actually Do When You Incorporate?

At Fulcrum Law, here’s what we typically handle during the incorporation process:

‍

Task	DIY Incorporation	With Fulcrum Law
Name reservation & filing	✅	✅ (with legal review)
Articles of Incorporation	Basic template	Custom tailored
Share structure setup	Default (limited)	Flexible & tax-aware
Shareholder agreement	Not included	✅ Professionally drafted
Minute book setup	❌	✅ (digital or print)
Ongoing legal & tax advice	❌	✅ As needed

‍

We also make sure you’re compliant with the Business Corporations Act of BC—and ready for future growth, investment, or sale.

How Much Does It Cost to Incorporate with a Lawyer in BC?

Legal fees vary depending on your business complexity. At Fulcrum Law in Vancouver, our flat-rate incorporation packages typically range from $1,200 to $2,000 plus taxes and government filing fees.

We’ll walk you through everything—no jargon, no upselling—just legal support that makes sense for small businesses and startups.

Pros and Cons: DIY vs. Hiring a Lawyer

Here’s a quick checklist to help you decide:

✅ DIY Incorporation (when it’s okay)

You’re the only founder
You have simple needs and understand the risks
You’re comfortable with government forms and templates

✅ Incorporating with a Lawyer (recommended if…)

You have co-founders or investors
You’re not sure how to structure shares
You plan to grow, sell, or raise capital
You want to avoid long-term legal issues

FAQ: Common Questions About Incorporating in BC

Do I need a lawyer to register a business name in BC?

No. You can reserve and register a business name through BC Registries online. However, a lawyer can help ensure your name doesn’t infringe on another business’s trademark.

What are the risks of incorporating without a lawyer?

Poor share structures, missing minute books, and the absence of shareholder agreements can lead to legal disputes or investor red flags later.

Can I incorporate federally and still operate in BC?

Yes. If you incorporate federally, you’ll still need to register your business in BC as an extra-provincial corporation.

What’s the difference between incorporation and sole proprietorship?

A sole proprietorship is simpler to start, but it doesn’t offer personal liability protection. Incorporation separates your personal and business assets.