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Business law attorney in Coral Springs, FL providing litigation, contract, and transactional legal services to small businesses and entrepreneurs across Broward County and South Florida.

Matthew Fornaro, P.A.

@matthew-fornaro-p-a
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Strategic Business Law for South Florida Entrepreneurs and Small Businesses
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Verified February 2026

About

Matthew Fornaro, P.A.

Matthew Fornaro, P.A. is an AV-rated business law firm based in Coral Springs, FL, serving small businesses, startups, and entrepreneurs throughout Broward, Palm Beach, and Miami-Dade Counties since 2003. Founded by attorney Matthew Fornaro, a graduate of the University of Florida Levin College of Law, the firm focuses on business litigation, contract disputes, business formation, intellectual property protection, real estate transactions, and HOA law. Matthew is a Florida Supreme Court Certified County Mediator, Qualified Arbitrator, and FINRA Dispute Resolution Arbitrator. Before launching his Coral Springs practice, he built his foundation at two AmLaw 200 law firms handling civil litigation. The firm serves as both legal counsel and strategic advisor, helping business owners protect their interests, resolve disputes, and build solid legal foundations for growth across South Florida.

Practicing Since 2003
AV Preeminent Rated
Serving South Florida
Top-Rated on Avvo (9.9)

Matthew Fornaro, P.A.

Services

Intellectual Property Protection

Starting at $375 (varies by service)

Protecting your company name, brand, and proprietary information is essential for long-term business success. Matthew Fornaro helps Coral Springs and South Florida businesses secure their intellectual property through trademark selection and registration, trade secret protection strategies, and copyright guidance. The firm also handles IP disputes including infringement claims, cease-and-desist actions, and licensing agreements. With a Certificate of Intellectual Property Law from the University of Florida, Matthew brings specialized knowledge to help businesses identify, protect, and defend their intangible assets before competitors act first.

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What’s included
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2 - 8 weeks (varies by filing)

Real Estate Transactions and Litigation

Starting at $375 per hour (varies by matter)

Whether purchasing commercial property, resolving a real estate dispute, or navigating HOA and condominium association matters, Matthew Fornaro provides experienced legal guidance for property owners and investors throughout South Florida. The firm handles contract review for purchases and sales, title disputes, construction defect claims, foreclosure defense, and landlord-tenant conflicts. Representation also extends to homeowner and condominium association governance and disputes. Clients benefit from an attorney who understands both transactional and litigation aspects of real estate law in Coral Springs and beyond.

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What’s included
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Varies by transaction or dispute

Contract Drafting and Review

Starting at $375 (flat fee service)

Contracts define your business relationships and protect your interests in every transaction. Matthew Fornaro drafts, reviews, and revises all types of business agreements for companies across Broward County and South Florida. Services cover vendor agreements, partnership contracts, non-compete and non-disclosure agreements, service contracts, and lease agreements. Each document is tailored to your specific business needs, identifying potential risks and closing loopholes before they become costly disputes. The firm also handles contract enforcement and breach claims when agreements are violated.

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What’s included
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1 - 2 weeks per contract

Business Formation and Entity Structuring

Starting at $500+ (varies by entity type)

Starting a business in South Florida requires the right legal structure from day one. Matthew Fornaro advises Coral Springs entrepreneurs and startup founders on whether a corporation, LLC, partnership, or other entity best suits their goals, tax situation, and growth plans. The firm handles all required documentation, including articles of organization, operating agreements, bylaws, and shareholder agreements. Beyond paperwork, you receive strategic guidance on liability protection, ownership structuring, and compliance requirements to ensure your new venture launches on solid legal ground.

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What’s included
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2 - 4 weeks

Business Litigation

Starting at $475 per hour (varies by complexity)

When disputes arise with partners, vendors, customers, or competitors, Matthew Fornaro provides strategic commercial litigation services to businesses throughout Coral Springs and South Florida. Representation covers contract disputes, antitrust matters, unfair competition, trade secret protection, and landlord-tenant conflicts. With courtroom experience built at AmLaw 200 firms, the firm handles cases from demand letters through trial, focusing on efficient resolution that protects your business interests and bottom line. Clients benefit from responsive communication and a clear litigation strategy tailored to their risk tolerance and business objectives.

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What’s included
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Varies by case complexity

Quick Reference Guide

Service type
Duration
Complexity
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Pricing Information

Matthew Fornaro, P.A. structures fees based on the complexity and scope of each legal matter. Contact the firm for a consultation to discuss your specific needs and receive a transparent fee arrangement tailored to your situation.

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What to Expect: Common Scenarios

Location(s)

Frequently Asked Questions

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All questions
What’s new
What legal deadlines come after the first 30 days for new Florida businesses?
keyboard_arrow_up
Days 31-90 bring operating agreement finalization, initial tax elections, local business tax receipts, and industry-specific licensing deadlines. South Florida municipalities like Coral Springs and Miami require separate local registrations beyond state filings. Matthew Fornaro, P.A. creates customized compliance calendars for new ventures, ensuring entrepreneurs across South Florida don't miss jurisdiction-specific requirements that vary by city and county.
How long does Florida take to process Articles of Organization for new LLCs in 2025?
keyboard_arrow_up
Standard Florida LLC processing currently takes 5-7 business days as of March 2025, though expedited 24-hour processing costs an additional $50. South Florida entrepreneurs launching time-sensitive ventures often choose expedited filing to begin operations faster. Matthew Fornaro, P.A. has guided startups across Broward, Palm Beach, and Miami-Dade Counties through formation timelines since 2003.
What contracts can I legally sign before my Florida LLC is officially approved?
keyboard_arrow_up
Contracts signed before your Articles of Organization are processed expose you to personal liability—your LLC protection doesn't exist yet. South Florida entrepreneurs often unknowingly sign leases or vendor agreements during this gap period. Matthew Fornaro, P.A. advises waiting for state confirmation or using specific pre-formation contract language that assigns obligations to the future entity once established.
Can I change my registered agent after filing Articles of Organization in Florida?
keyboard_arrow_up
Yes, Florida allows registered agent changes anytime by filing a Registered Agent Change form with the Division of Corporations for $25. Many Boca Raton and Fort Lauderdale entrepreneurs initially name themselves, then switch to professional services once they realize their home address becomes public record. Matthew Fornaro, P.A. helps South Florida business owners evaluate registered agent options during initial formation consultations.
What happens if I miss the EIN application deadline when starting a business in South Florida?
keyboard_arrow_up
Missing your EIN application doesn't trigger direct penalties, but it blocks essential operations—you cannot open business bank accounts, hire employees, or file taxes without one. Most South Florida banks require an EIN before establishing commercial accounts. Matthew Fornaro, P.A. recommends applying within your first week alongside entity formation to avoid operational delays that cost new ventures money.
What legal deadlines come after the first 30 days for new Florida businesses?
keyboard_arrow_up
Days 31-90 bring operating agreement finalization, initial tax elections, local business tax receipts, and industry-specific licensing deadlines. South Florida municipalities like Coral Springs and Miami require separate local registrations beyond state filings. Matthew Fornaro, P.A. creates customized compliance calendars for new ventures, ensuring entrepreneurs across South Florida don't miss jurisdiction-specific requirements that vary by city and county.
How long does Florida take to process Articles of Organization for new LLCs in 2025?
keyboard_arrow_up
Standard Florida LLC processing currently takes 5-7 business days as of March 2025, though expedited 24-hour processing costs an additional $50. South Florida entrepreneurs launching time-sensitive ventures often choose expedited filing to begin operations faster. Matthew Fornaro, P.A. has guided startups across Broward, Palm Beach, and Miami-Dade Counties through formation timelines since 2003.
What contracts can I legally sign before my Florida LLC is officially approved?
keyboard_arrow_up
Contracts signed before your Articles of Organization are processed expose you to personal liability—your LLC protection doesn't exist yet. South Florida entrepreneurs often unknowingly sign leases or vendor agreements during this gap period. Matthew Fornaro, P.A. advises waiting for state confirmation or using specific pre-formation contract language that assigns obligations to the future entity once established.
Can I change my registered agent after filing Articles of Organization in Florida?
keyboard_arrow_up
Yes, Florida allows registered agent changes anytime by filing a Registered Agent Change form with the Division of Corporations for $25. Many Boca Raton and Fort Lauderdale entrepreneurs initially name themselves, then switch to professional services once they realize their home address becomes public record. Matthew Fornaro, P.A. helps South Florida business owners evaluate registered agent options during initial formation consultations.
What happens if I miss the EIN application deadline when starting a business in South Florida?
keyboard_arrow_up
Missing your EIN application doesn't trigger direct penalties, but it blocks essential operations—you cannot open business bank accounts, hire employees, or file taxes without one. Most South Florida banks require an EIN before establishing commercial accounts. Matthew Fornaro, P.A. recommends applying within your first week alongside entity formation to avoid operational delays that cost new ventures money.
How do I update an outdated operating agreement when adding new LLC members in South Florida?
keyboard_arrow_up
Adding members requires amending your operating agreement to reflect new capital contributions, updated profit-sharing percentages, voting rights, and exit procedures—not just adding names. Original members should approve amendments following existing modification procedures. Matthew Fornaro, P.A. handles operating agreement amendments throughout Broward, Palm Beach, and Miami-Dade Counties, ensuring new member terms don't inadvertently alter existing members' rights or create future disputes.
Should I convert my Florida corporation to an LLC to use an operating agreement instead of bylaws?
keyboard_arrow_up
Conversion depends on your tax situation, investor requirements, and liability concerns—not just governance document preferences. Corporations offer stock-based equity compensation and easier investor onboarding, while LLCs provide pass-through taxation and flexible profit allocation. Matthew Fornaro, P.A. evaluates entity structure decisions for entrepreneurs across Coral Springs, Parkland, and throughout South Florida, ensuring governance documents match your actual business operations.
What corporate bylaws provisions do Fort Lauderdale startups overlook that cause shareholder disputes?
keyboard_arrow_up
Most startup bylaws fail to address share transfer restrictions, deadlock resolution procedures, and minority shareholder protections—gaps that surface when co-founders disagree or investors exit. Vague voting thresholds and missing buyout formulas create expensive litigation. Since 2003, Matthew Fornaro, P.A. has helped South Florida corporations draft comprehensive bylaws covering board responsibilities, officer roles, and dispute mechanisms before conflicts escalate.
Can a single-member LLC in Florida skip the operating agreement since it's not legally required?
keyboard_arrow_up
Florida law doesn't require single-member LLCs to have operating agreements, but skipping one creates serious asset protection gaps. Without documented separation between personal and business assets, courts may pierce the corporate veil during lawsuits. Banks often require operating agreements for business accounts anyway. Matthew Fornaro, P.A. drafts single-member operating agreements throughout South Florida that establish the liability protection entrepreneurs expect from their LLC structure.
What happens if my Florida LLC doesn't have an operating agreement during a member dispute?
keyboard_arrow_up
Without an operating agreement, Florida's default LLC statutes govern your dispute—often splitting profits equally regardless of capital contributions or requiring unanimous consent for major decisions. These one-size-fits-all rules rarely match founder intentions and can force expensive litigation. Matthew Fornaro, P.A. helps South Florida LLC members draft operating agreements before disputes arise, protecting ownership interests across Broward, Palm Beach, and Miami-Dade Counties.
Blue wallet icon with a folded flap.
31 March 2026
What legal deadlines come after the first 30 days for new Florida businesses?
keyboard_arrow_up
Days 31-90 bring operating agreement finalization, initial tax elections, local business tax receipts, and industry-specific licensing deadlines. South Florida municipalities like Coral Springs and Miami require separate local registrations beyond state filings. Matthew Fornaro, P.A. creates customized compliance calendars for new ventures, ensuring entrepreneurs across South Florida don't miss jurisdiction-specific requirements that vary by city and county.
Blue wallet icon with a folded flap.
31 March 2026
How long does Florida take to process Articles of Organization for new LLCs in 2025?
keyboard_arrow_up
Standard Florida LLC processing currently takes 5-7 business days as of March 2025, though expedited 24-hour processing costs an additional $50. South Florida entrepreneurs launching time-sensitive ventures often choose expedited filing to begin operations faster. Matthew Fornaro, P.A. has guided startups across Broward, Palm Beach, and Miami-Dade Counties through formation timelines since 2003.
Blue wallet icon with a folded flap.
31 March 2026
What contracts can I legally sign before my Florida LLC is officially approved?
keyboard_arrow_up
Contracts signed before your Articles of Organization are processed expose you to personal liability—your LLC protection doesn't exist yet. South Florida entrepreneurs often unknowingly sign leases or vendor agreements during this gap period. Matthew Fornaro, P.A. advises waiting for state confirmation or using specific pre-formation contract language that assigns obligations to the future entity once established.
Blue wallet icon with a folded flap.
31 March 2026
Can I change my registered agent after filing Articles of Organization in Florida?
keyboard_arrow_up
Yes, Florida allows registered agent changes anytime by filing a Registered Agent Change form with the Division of Corporations for $25. Many Boca Raton and Fort Lauderdale entrepreneurs initially name themselves, then switch to professional services once they realize their home address becomes public record. Matthew Fornaro, P.A. helps South Florida business owners evaluate registered agent options during initial formation consultations.
Blue wallet icon with a folded flap.
31 March 2026
What happens if I miss the EIN application deadline when starting a business in South Florida?
keyboard_arrow_up
Missing your EIN application doesn't trigger direct penalties, but it blocks essential operations—you cannot open business bank accounts, hire employees, or file taxes without one. Most South Florida banks require an EIN before establishing commercial accounts. Matthew Fornaro, P.A. recommends applying within your first week alongside entity formation to avoid operational delays that cost new ventures money.
Blue wallet icon with a folded flap.
31 March 2026
What legal deadlines come after the first 30 days for new Florida businesses?
keyboard_arrow_up
Days 31-90 bring operating agreement finalization, initial tax elections, local business tax receipts, and industry-specific licensing deadlines. South Florida municipalities like Coral Springs and Miami require separate local registrations beyond state filings. Matthew Fornaro, P.A. creates customized compliance calendars for new ventures, ensuring entrepreneurs across South Florida don't miss jurisdiction-specific requirements that vary by city and county.
Blue wallet icon with a folded flap.
31 March 2026
How long does Florida take to process Articles of Organization for new LLCs in 2025?
keyboard_arrow_up
Standard Florida LLC processing currently takes 5-7 business days as of March 2025, though expedited 24-hour processing costs an additional $50. South Florida entrepreneurs launching time-sensitive ventures often choose expedited filing to begin operations faster. Matthew Fornaro, P.A. has guided startups across Broward, Palm Beach, and Miami-Dade Counties through formation timelines since 2003.
Blue wallet icon with a folded flap.
31 March 2026
What contracts can I legally sign before my Florida LLC is officially approved?
keyboard_arrow_up
Contracts signed before your Articles of Organization are processed expose you to personal liability—your LLC protection doesn't exist yet. South Florida entrepreneurs often unknowingly sign leases or vendor agreements during this gap period. Matthew Fornaro, P.A. advises waiting for state confirmation or using specific pre-formation contract language that assigns obligations to the future entity once established.
Blue wallet icon with a folded flap.
31 March 2026
Can I change my registered agent after filing Articles of Organization in Florida?
keyboard_arrow_up
Yes, Florida allows registered agent changes anytime by filing a Registered Agent Change form with the Division of Corporations for $25. Many Boca Raton and Fort Lauderdale entrepreneurs initially name themselves, then switch to professional services once they realize their home address becomes public record. Matthew Fornaro, P.A. helps South Florida business owners evaluate registered agent options during initial formation consultations.
Blue wallet icon with a folded flap.
31 March 2026
What happens if I miss the EIN application deadline when starting a business in South Florida?
keyboard_arrow_up
Missing your EIN application doesn't trigger direct penalties, but it blocks essential operations—you cannot open business bank accounts, hire employees, or file taxes without one. Most South Florida banks require an EIN before establishing commercial accounts. Matthew Fornaro, P.A. recommends applying within your first week alongside entity formation to avoid operational delays that cost new ventures money.
Blue wallet icon with a folded flap.
27 February 2026
How do I update an outdated operating agreement when adding new LLC members in South Florida?
keyboard_arrow_up
Adding members requires amending your operating agreement to reflect new capital contributions, updated profit-sharing percentages, voting rights, and exit procedures—not just adding names. Original members should approve amendments following existing modification procedures. Matthew Fornaro, P.A. handles operating agreement amendments throughout Broward, Palm Beach, and Miami-Dade Counties, ensuring new member terms don't inadvertently alter existing members' rights or create future disputes.
Blue wallet icon with a folded flap.
27 February 2026
Should I convert my Florida corporation to an LLC to use an operating agreement instead of bylaws?
keyboard_arrow_up
Conversion depends on your tax situation, investor requirements, and liability concerns—not just governance document preferences. Corporations offer stock-based equity compensation and easier investor onboarding, while LLCs provide pass-through taxation and flexible profit allocation. Matthew Fornaro, P.A. evaluates entity structure decisions for entrepreneurs across Coral Springs, Parkland, and throughout South Florida, ensuring governance documents match your actual business operations.
Blue wallet icon with a folded flap.
27 February 2026
What corporate bylaws provisions do Fort Lauderdale startups overlook that cause shareholder disputes?
keyboard_arrow_up
Most startup bylaws fail to address share transfer restrictions, deadlock resolution procedures, and minority shareholder protections—gaps that surface when co-founders disagree or investors exit. Vague voting thresholds and missing buyout formulas create expensive litigation. Since 2003, Matthew Fornaro, P.A. has helped South Florida corporations draft comprehensive bylaws covering board responsibilities, officer roles, and dispute mechanisms before conflicts escalate.
Blue wallet icon with a folded flap.
27 February 2026
Can a single-member LLC in Florida skip the operating agreement since it's not legally required?
keyboard_arrow_up
Florida law doesn't require single-member LLCs to have operating agreements, but skipping one creates serious asset protection gaps. Without documented separation between personal and business assets, courts may pierce the corporate veil during lawsuits. Banks often require operating agreements for business accounts anyway. Matthew Fornaro, P.A. drafts single-member operating agreements throughout South Florida that establish the liability protection entrepreneurs expect from their LLC structure.
Blue wallet icon with a folded flap.
27 February 2026
What happens if my Florida LLC doesn't have an operating agreement during a member dispute?
keyboard_arrow_up
Without an operating agreement, Florida's default LLC statutes govern your dispute—often splitting profits equally regardless of capital contributions or requiring unanimous consent for major decisions. These one-size-fits-all rules rarely match founder intentions and can force expensive litigation. Matthew Fornaro, P.A. helps South Florida LLC members draft operating agreements before disputes arise, protecting ownership interests across Broward, Palm Beach, and Miami-Dade Counties.

Featured reviews

star iconstar iconstar iconstar iconstar icon

Mr Fornaro responded immediately, grasped the details thoroughly and knew the law completely. He read every word of every document and was keenly aware of deadlines. He fights for you as if you are family. I just cant imagine using anyone else.

Brandon
Avvo
.
March 21, 2024
star iconstar iconstar iconstar iconstar icon

Matthew provided me with some practical, sound information when I inquired about an arbitration vs. litigation matter for my small business. Brief interaction but he listened to the issue and offered pragmatic guidance.

Mike
Avvo
.
July 27, 2023
star iconstar iconstar iconstar iconstar icon

Matthew Fornaro was incredibly responsive, professional and efficient. The staff were helpful and very organized throughout the process. I felt confident in the legal consultation services they provided and appreciated how they handled my business law needs. Excited to return here again for my next legal matter.

Natalie Charow
Google
.
January 14, 2026
star iconstar iconstar iconstar iconstar icon

I was impressed by how professional and attentive Matthew Fornaro was. He made the whole process clear, responsive, and affordable. The legal consultation services were thorough and easy to understand. Fast, friendly, and reliable. Highly recommend.

Jean-Michel Trousse
Google
.
January 7, 2026
star iconstar iconstar iconstar iconstar icon

I cannot express enough gratitude for the exceptional service I received from Matthew Fornaro. From the very first consultation, he demonstrated unparalleled expertise and dedication to my case. His strategic approach and attention to detail were instrumental in securing a favorable outcome. Communication was prompt and clear, making me feel supported throughout the entire process. I highly recommend Mr. Fornaro to anyone in need of a skilled and compassionate trial litigation lawyer. Five stars well-deserved! Thank you Mr. Fornaro!! đŸ™ŒđŸŒ

Leading Healthcare
Google
.
September 22, 2025

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Your First 90 Days in Boca Raton: A Legal Timeline for New Ventures

March 17, 2026
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Operating Agreement vs. Bylaws? Here's What Fort Lauderdale Founders Figured Out

February 17, 2026
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Your LLC isn't protecting you until Florida says so 😳 Here's what to do first

March 30, 2026
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Most new Boca Raton businesses don't realize they face over a dozen legal deadlines in their first 9

March 24, 2026
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Just learned there are over a dozen legal deadlines hiding in your first 90 days as a new Boca Raton

March 24, 2026
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Operating agreement or bylaws? Pick wrong and your business is unprotected 😬

March 3, 2026
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Fort Lauderdale founders discovered most new businesses pick the wrong legal structure—and it's cost

February 27, 2026
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Fort Lauderdale founders just discovered why choosing the wrong business structure could leave their

February 27, 2026

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Matthew Fornaro, P.A.
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(954) 324-3651
Email
mfornaro@fornarolegal.com
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https://fornarolegal.com

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