As opposed to randomly picking a laywer and an accountant from the internet or the yellow pages, I thought I'd ask here for some recommendations. I've been developing a software product (not a game, but will be useful to game developers) for the past 18 months or so now. The product is very near completion and I would like to discuss legal and financial details with appropriate expert(s). Some of the details that I would like expert advice on are... 1) Form a regular C-Corporation, S-Corporation or LLC? What are the restrictions on foreign ownership (assuming I form the business entity in the USA)? Which state to incorporate in? From what I've heard, Delaware seems to be the best choice. 2) What other issues need to be considered if I incorporate in the USA without being a US citizen? What are the tax implications etc...? 3) E-Commerce related issues in general. The above being said, can anyone recommend a particular accountant or lawyer? I am currently living in silicon valley, so a recommendation for someone in this geographical area would be great. Thanks.

I would normally recommend using an experienced game industry lawyer IF you were a developer and if you wanted to discuss actual industry issues. However they cost more and if your initial discussions are restricted to company start up issues then you could probably go with a standard commercial (as opposed to family/divorce) lawyer. Sadly I don't know any commercial lawyers but I do have a list of game industry lawyers (which may be useful further down the line when you are seeking to license/sell your product to developers. The list is at http://obscure.co.uk/directory_legal.shtml

As for the E-commerce stuff, have to spoken to any E-commerce providers? They will almost certainly be happy to answer questions (and cost a lot less than a lawyer) if they think you might be a customer. Try them first, then move on to the lawyer.