Governing Laws: California veterinary corporations must adhere to the Moscone-Knox Professional Corporation Act, California Corporations Code, and other relevant statutes and regulations
Regulatory Body: Overseen by the Veterinary Medical Board
Formation: File articles of incorporation with the California Secretary of State.
No LLCs: Cannot form as an LLC or traditional corporation for veterinary services
Structure: Typically structured as an S-Corporation for tax reasons and to provide liability protection (except for malpractice).
Ownership Requirements
Licensed Professionals: Directors, shareholders, and officers must be licensed veterinarians, except as allowed under certain conditions by Section 13403 of the Corporations Code
Naming Conventions: Must include “veterinary corporation” or similar wording to denote corporate existence
Financial Protocols
Disqualified Persons: A disqualified shareholder cannot accrue benefits from the veterinary corporation.
Stock Regulations: Rules for selling stock of disqualified or deceased persons
Insurance Requirements: Must secure insurance or equivalent for patient claims related to professional services.
Ethical Compliance
Professional Conduct: Must not engage in any act that would be deemed unprofessional under current laws.
Punishable Violations: Violations of the Professional Corporation Act or related regulations can lead to punishment as per Section 4831.
Exemptions and Miscellaneous
Veterinary Premises: Holding a certificate of registration of veterinary premises does not require forming a veterinary corporation.
Starting a Professional Veterinary Corporation in California?
If you are thinking about forming a California veterinary corporation, LawInc is here for you.
We ensure every single legally required formality is handled. This includes customized stock certificates, customized bylaws and the required certification of bylaws.
Either speak with an incorporation attorney or get started with our simple online order form.
With LawInc’s expert focus on corporations for California veterinarians, we’ll make sure your veterinary corporation is set up properly, efficiently, and in compliance with all state regulations.
