I'm looking to start a company where I'll be doing mostly webapps, iPhone apps, the usual things companies discussed on here do. I'm doing it by myself for now.
I've read all the advice here about business types (LLC vs S-Corp vs C-Corp) and feel like I'm ready to get started. I've also read all kinds of tales here about paperwork mistakes, tax filing disasters, and improper accounting.
If I haven't made a dime yet, does it make sense to have a lawyer help me set up the company? Likewise, would it make sense to talk to an accountant to help me set up processes so I'm not in trouble on tax day? If so, what are some good resources for finding lawyers/accountants who are experienced in this sort of thing? Randomly picking from the Yellow Pages/Google seems like a bad idea. I'm outside of the valley (live in Wash DC), but general advice would be helpful for others I'm sure. Also, if I were to work with professionals, what kinds of rates are reasonable?
This will cost you money, but it's a valuable investment. Good accountants save you a lot of money and hassle.
I can't advise on rates, etc, as I'm not in the USA. YMMV.