This paper was presented at the Basic Corporate Procedures for Legal Support Staff seminar which was held in Edmonton on April 6, 2011 and Calgary on April 13, 2011.

This paper provides a general overview of the common business structures a client may choose when deciding to start a business, including sole proprietorship, general partnerships, limited partnerships, limited liability partnerships, societies, Part IX companies and corporations. The paper discusses how these structures are created and maintained as well as particulars on the necessary filings and registrations.