Free legal clinic offered for small business owners Nov. 5 

The North Carolina Lawyers for Entrepreneurs Assistance Program (NC LEAP) will present a free legal clinic for small business owners Wednesday, Nov. 5, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Appalachian Enterprise Center at 130 Poplar Grove Connector in Boone.

The free business law clinic will provide low-wealth entrepreneurs an opportunity to have an NC LEAP volunteer attorney conduct a legal audit for their business.

The clinic and legal audit are designed to assist business owners in determining the legal health of their business. Clients will be able to meet with attorneys for up to one hour to review and discuss their legal needs. Clinic space is limited and interested individuals should contact Jessica Griffin at (828) 264-2732 or e-mail DWood@appalachianenterprisecenter.com to reserve a consultation time.

“With the daily costs of living and maintaining a small business increasing substantially, NC LEAP’s services are of paramount importance,” said NC LEAP director Milan Pham. “Very often the difference between a business thriving or failing can be basic legal knowledge and access to adequate legal services. NC LEAP provides the tools which stimulate our local economy and revitalize our communities. We’re here to help.”

The new NC LEAP service area comprises Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Burke, Caldwell, Surrey, Watauga, Wilkes and Yadkin counties.

The Appalachian Enterprise Center is a partnership with Watauga County, the Committee of 100 and Appalachian State University. The collaboration provides a network of support services for early-stage and growing businesses, including office space, access to office equipment, conference rooms, mentoring and business counseling services and communications access.