The current registrant of a tradename, trademark or service mark can assign same by completing and signing this form. The form must be submitted, along with the required fee, to the Louisiana Secretary of State.
Louisiana DBA Laws: A Comprehensive Overview Louisiana, like many other states, has specific laws and regulations governing DBA (Doing Business As) names. DBA refers to the practice of conducting business under a name different from the legal name of the business owner or entity. In Louisiana, DBA laws are designed to ensure transparency, legal compliance, and protection for both businesses and consumers. Understanding these laws is essential for business owners planning to operate under a fictitious or assumed name. Types of Louisiana DBA Laws: 1. Filing Requirements: To legally establish and operate a business under a DBA name in Louisiana, business owners are required to file an assumed business name certificate with the Secretary of State. This filing ensures that the public is aware of the true identity of the individuals or entities conducting business. 2. Verification of Name Availability: Before filing for a DBA, business owners must search the Louisiana Secretary of State's database to ensure that the desired name is not already in use by another entity. This step helps prevent confusion or infringement upon existing businesses. 3. Sole Proprietorship and Partnership DBA's: In the case of sole proprietorship or partnerships, where the business is not formed as a separate legal entity, Louisiana DBA laws require the individual(s) or partners to file a DBA certificate with the Secretary of State. 4. Corporation and Limited Liability Company (LLC) DBA's: If a corporation or LLC in Louisiana intends to conduct business under a name different from its legal name, it must file a DBA certificate with the Secretary of State as well. This ensures that the public is aware of the entity behind the DBA. 5. Unlawful Use: Louisiana DBA laws also prohibit the use of deceptive or misleading names that may misrepresent the nature of the business or deceive consumers. Using a DBA name to conduct fraudulent activities or engage in unfair business practices is strictly illegal. 6. Protective Functions: DBA laws also seek to safeguard consumers by mandating that businesses operating under fictitious names display their true names and addresses prominently at their places of business. This requirement helps in identifying the true entity behind a DBA name and establishing transparency. It is important for business owners to carefully adhere to these Louisiana DBA laws to ensure legal compliance, protect their interests, and maintain trust and integrity with their customers. Failure to comply with these laws can result in legal consequences, fines, and reputational damage. Overall, Louisiana's DBA laws provide a framework that promotes transparency, safeguards consumers, and facilitates the smooth operation of businesses under fictitious or assumed names. By understanding and adhering to these laws, business owners can confidently conduct their operations while maintaining legal compliance.
