If you’re an attorney planning to launch a law firm in Florida, you may be wondering: Can a law firm be an LLC in Florida?
The short answer: Yes, a law firm can operate as an LLC in Florida — but it must be structured as a Professional Limited Liability Company (PLLC) and comply with Florida Bar rules.
In this guide, we’ll explain:
- Whether law firms can be LLCs in Florida
- The difference between an LLC and a PLLC
- Florida Bar and state requirements
- How to form a PLLC for a law practice
- Tax and legal benefits of the PLLC structure
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What Is a PLLC and How Does It Differ from an LLC?
A PLLC, or Professional Limited Liability Company, is a specialized type of LLC designed for licensed professionals such as:
- Attorneys
- Doctors
- Accountants
- Engineers
- Architects
Florida law requires licensed professionals to form a PLLC — not a standard LLC — when offering regulated services such as legal representation.
Key differences:
| Feature | LLC | PLLC |
|---|---|---|
| Who Can Form | Anyone | Only licensed professionals |
| Purpose | Any lawful business | Professional services (e.g., legal) |
| Ownership | Anyone | Must be licensed in the profession |
| Subject to FL Bar rules? | No | Yes |
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Can a Law Firm Be an LLC in Florida?
Yes, but only in the form of a PLLC.
According to the Florida Bar and the Florida Department of State:
- A law firm must be owned and managed by attorneys licensed in Florida (or authorized to practice law in the state).
- The firm must register as a PLLC, not a regular LLC.
- The firm name must include the designation “PLLC” or “Professional Limited Liability Company.”
- All members (owners) of the PLLC must be licensed attorneys.
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How to Form a Law Firm PLLC in Florida (Step-by-Step)
1. Check name availability
– Your firm’s name must comply with Florida Bar rules and include “PLLC.”
– Avoid misleading or non-lawful names.
2. File Articles of Organization
– Submit through the Florida Division of Corporations
– Include the professional purpose (e.g., “practice of law”)
3. Designate a Registered Agent
– Must have a Florida physical address
– Can be you, a partner, or a third-party service
4. Draft an Operating Agreement
– Defines the PLLC’s structure, management, and legal responsibility
– Not required by Florida law but highly recommended
5. Apply for an EIN
– Obtain your Employer Identification Number from the IRS for tax and payroll purposes
6. Register with the Florida Bar
– Inform the Bar of your firm’s name and formation
– Follow any additional compliance requirements
7. Apply for Business Licenses (if needed)
– Depending on your county or city
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Legal & Tax Benefits of a Law Firm PLLC
- Limited liability protection for members
- Flow-through taxation (profits pass directly to owners)
- Professional legitimacy
- Easier firm ownership and succession planning
- Easier compliance compared to a corporation
However, a PLLC does not shield members from malpractice liability — each attorney is personally liable for their own professional conduct.
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Can Non-Attorneys Own a Law Firm in Florida?
No. In Florida, only attorneys licensed to practice law in the state may:
- Own equity in a law firm
- Be members of a PLLC for legal services
- Share in firm profits
This rule is designed to protect the public and preserve attorney-client privilege.
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Final Thoughts
If you’re launching a legal practice in Florida, forming a PLLC is the compliant and professional way to structure your firm.
The PLLC offers liability protection, flexible management, and tax advantages — but it must follow Florida’s legal and ethical rules. Make sure every member of your law firm PLLC is a licensed attorney, and register properly with both the state and the Florida Bar.
Need help forming a law firm PLLC? FormLLC can handle your filing, EIN, registered agent, and BOI report with one simple package.
