The Role That Keeps Lawsuits From Blindsiding You

Author

Amanda Beale
June 21, 2025

Hey ,

Most business owners don’t think about what happens if they get sued or how they’d even find out.

That’s where a Registered Agent comes in.

And not having one (or choosing the wrong person) could mean missing important legal documents like a service of process- the formal notification that a lawsuit has been filed against your business.

Yes! This can happen…

⚠️ What’s Non-Compliant

If you’ve formed an LLC or corporation, you’re legally required to have a Registered Agent in your formation state.

This person or company accepts legal notices, tax forms, and official government correspondence on your behalf- including a service of process if you’re ever sued.

But here’s what too many business owners get wrong:

→ Using a friend, family member or random virtual address.

→ Ignoring mail that looks like junk.

→ Using themselves as the Registered Agent but not available at business address during business hours.

Missing a service of process can result in a default judgment-which means you lose a case you didn’t even know about.

✅ Compliance Tip

Always be available during business hours or use a professional Registered Agent service.

Using a professional Registered Agent service will protect your privacy (their address is public, not yours), ensures you don’t miss critical documents, and keeps you in good standing with the state.

🛠️ Action Steps: Fix It Now

  • ✅Check if you are listed as your own Registered Agent (you’ll find it on your business formation documents or on your secretary of state’s website)

  • ✅If so, switch to a professional service- especially if you value privacy and peace of mind.

  • ✅Choose a provider that includes mail scanning and multi-state coverage if you plan to expand.

📣 Northwest Registered Agent

A professional woman in a light blue blouse sits at a desk writing in a notebook while looking at a phone, with a laptop open in front of her. The “northwest REGISTERED AGENT” logo is prominently displayed across the center of the image.

Image courtesy of Northwest Registered Agent. This isn’t a sponsored post and I am not currently affiliated with Northwest registered Agent. However, I like the options that they provide for business owners and am considering them for my own compliance needs.

They have helped over 3 million businesses stay compliant by offering real humans, no hidden fees, and privacy by default.

📌 Disclaimer

The information provided in this newsletter is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or financial advice. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, laws and regulations change, and individual circumstances vary. For advice specific to your business, please consult a qualified professional.

When in doubt, consult a licensed attorney to review your compliance needs.
If you don’t have one, I’m happy to help you get connected, just schedule a quick call.

Thank you for reading.

Keep showing up, protect the business that you are building and share what you learned with a friend !

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Until next time💛