A C corporation, involving one person, probably doesn't make sense. You probably want a S corp or LLC. In any case, a lawyer is good but I've always gotten my advice from my accountant. The lawyer knows the rules. The accountant knows how the rules affect your money.
But an LLC is more flexible and generally simpler to start.
If you're looking to build a small profitable company, I'd go LLC. If you're looking for VC money today, go C-Corp. If you're looking to build a profitable company but want VC money in a few years, consider an S-Corp.
Comments
A C corporation, involving one person, probably doesn't make sense. You probably want a S corp or LLC. In any case, a lawyer is good but I've always gotten my advice from my accountant. The lawyer knows the rules. The accountant knows how the rules affect your money.
A S-Corp is easier to convert to a C-Corp, so if you want to go the VC/IPO direction, but want to start simpler, you might want to start with an S-Corp. http://www.feld.com/wp/archives/2006/02/s-corps-vs-llcs.html
But an LLC is more flexible and generally simpler to start.
If you're looking to build a small profitable company, I'd go LLC. If you're looking for VC money today, go C-Corp. If you're looking to build a profitable company but want VC money in a few years, consider an S-Corp.
Talk to a lawyer and accountant, of course.