Avoid legal pitfalls when founding an online start-up

Founding an online start-up requires not only entrepreneurial skill, but also a solid legal foundation. Company founders are confronted with a multitude of legal challenges that can have considerable consequences if they are not observed. Early legal protection is therefore essential in order to avoid complications and costly legal disputes later on. This article highlights the key legal aspects that founders of an online start-up need to consider in order to put their company on a solid legal footing. From choosing the right legal form and complying with data protection regulations to drafting legally compliant contracts – careful planning and implementation of these aspects can be crucial for the long-term success of the start-up.

Choosing the right legal form

The choice of the appropriate legal form is a fundamental decision when founding an online startup, which has far-reaching effects on liability, taxes and administrative expenses. For many start-ups, it is advisable to found a UG (haftungsbeschränkt) or GmbH, which offer limited liability and are popular with investors. However, these corporations require a minimum amount of capital as well as higher formation and administration costs. Alternatively, sole traders or small teams can consider a GbR, which is easier to set up but comes with personal liability. When making a decision, founders should consider the specific requirements of their business model, growth plans and potential investor preferences. Professional legal advice can help to identify the optimal legal form and ensure that the company is legally compliant. The correct choice of legal form lays the foundation for successful company development and minimizes legal risks.

Ensuring data protection and GDPR compliance

In the digital age, compliance with data protection regulations, in particular the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), is of central importance for online start-ups. A robust data protection concept includes the creation of a legally compliant privacy policy, the implementation of technical and organizational measures to protect personal data and the regular training of employees. Particular attention must be paid to the lawful collection and processing of customer data, including obtaining the necessary consent and guaranteeing the rights of data subjects. The appointment of a data protection officer or the involvement of external expertise can ensure GDPR compliance and minimize the risk of fines and reputational damage. Startups should not view data protection as a mere compulsory exercise, but as an opportunity to build trust with customers and partners. A proactive approach to data protection can therefore become a competitive advantage.

Drafting legally compliant contracts and general terms and conditions

The creation of legally compliant contracts and general terms and conditions (GTC) forms the legal backbone of an online start-up. Well-formulated contracts regulate essential aspects such as the scope of services, payment terms, limitations of liability and warranty rights. In the case of online stores, specific regulations such as revocation instructions and information obligations in accordance with Sections 312c et seq. BGB must be observed. General terms and conditions must meet the requirements of Sections 305 et seq. BGB, in particular they must be formulated clearly and comprehensibly and must not contain any surprising or unreasonably disadvantageous clauses. The correct inclusion of the GTC in the conclusion of the contract must be ensured, for example through clear notification and the opportunity to take note of them before the contract is concluded. For international transactions, the legal requirements of the target markets must be taken into account. In view of the complexity and potential legal consequences, it is advisable to seek legal advice when drafting contracts in order to create a solid contractual basis for the startup and minimize legal risks.

Author: Marian Härtel

Marian Härtel ist Rechtsanwalt und Fachanwalt für IT-Recht mit einer über 25-jährigen Erfahrung als Unternehmer und Berater in den Bereichen Games, E-Sport, Blockchain, SaaS und Künstliche Intelligenz. Seine Beratungsschwerpunkte umfassen neben dem IT-Recht insbesondere das Urheberrecht, Medienrecht sowie Wettbewerbsrecht. Er betreut schwerpunktmäßig Start-ups, Agenturen und Influencer, die er in strategischen Fragen, komplexen Vertragsangelegenheiten sowie bei Investitionsprojekten begleitet. Dabei zeichnet sich seine Beratung durch einen interdisziplinären Ansatz aus, der juristische Expertise und langjährige unternehmerische Erfahrung miteinander verbindet. Ziel seiner Tätigkeit ist stets, Mandanten praxisorientierte Lösungen anzubieten und rechtlich fundierte Unterstützung bei der Umsetzung innovativer Geschäftsmodelle zu gewährleisten.