Free Guides & Ebooks
In-depth resources written by our attorneys to help Chicago business owners navigate complex legal decisions. Download for free — no strings attached.
Business Formation Guide: Choosing the Right Entity in Illinois
A comprehensive guide covering LLC, S-Corp, C-Corp, and partnership structures in Illinois. Includes side-by-side comparisons, tax implications, formation checklists, and real-world scenarios to help you make the right choice for your business.
M&A Preparation Playbook for Chicago Business Owners
Whether you're buying or selling, this playbook walks you through every phase of the M&A process — from initial valuation and deal structuring through due diligence, negotiation, closing, and post-transaction integration.
Corporate Compliance Handbook for Illinois Businesses
Stay ahead of federal, state, and local regulatory requirements with this practical handbook. Covers BIPA compliance, employment law obligations, data privacy, corporate governance requirements, and industry-specific regulations.
Contract Negotiation Strategies for Business Owners
Learn how to identify risky contract provisions, negotiate more favorable terms, and protect your business interests. Includes annotated contract examples, negotiation checklists, and templates for common commercial agreements.
Why We Offer Free Resources
At Sterling & Associates, we believe that informed business owners make better decisions. Our guides reflect the same expertise and attention to detail that we bring to our paid legal work — because trust starts before the first engagement.