What is a Professional Limited Liability Company?
By: Marcus Leonard
What is a PLLC?
Many people are familiar with limited liability companies (“LLC”) including liability protection and other benefits provided by this type of business structure. Slightly different, a professional limited liability company (“PLLC”) is an LLC formed specifically by those who are licensed to provide professional services.
The term “professional service” means any type of personal service to the public which requires someone to obtain a license or other legal authorization to perform such service. Many medical professionals are authorized to form PLLC’s, including chiropractic physicians, dentists, osteopathic physicians, physicians and surgeons, doctors of medicine, doctors of dentistry, and podiatric physicians.
It is important to note that in Florida, a PLLC is only authorized to engage in providing the professional services for which it was organized. Additionally, all members must be licensed to provide the specific professional services offered by the PLLC and remain subject to the rules and regulations of the relevant state professional licensing authorities. For example, a group who wants to form a PLLC for a dental practice is authorized to engage only in dental services and all members must be licensed dentists. Accordingly, while practicing, the dentist will remain subject to the rules and regulations provided by the Florida Board of Dentistry.
PLLC’s Protections
A PLLC, like a standard LLC, offers some personal liability protections but does not shield members from all types of liability. The structure of a PLLC will provide members with protection from creditors attempting to collect unpaid debts owed by the PLLC, liability for the malpractice of other PLLC members, and from malpractice suits and other torts connected with the PLLC. Unfortunately, a PLLC will not protect members from liability if they have personally guaranteed a business loan, engaged in professional malpractice, or were negligent or intentionally committed a tort.
How Do You Form a PLLC in Florida?
Compared to other business structures, forming a PLLC is often more straightforward which is a major benefit for those who want to begin practicing as soon as possible. As mentioned above, it is important that all professional members of the company have the necessary state licenses and certifications. Members must then contact the relevant state licensing board to find out what approval is required for their profession. Those who wish to form a PLLC must draft and file articles of organization with the Florida Division of Corporations. This will include a statement of specific purpose, such as the practice of dentistry, medicine, or another professional service.
Different from a Professional Corporation
A PLLC is not to be confused with a professional corporation (“PC”).  A PLLC, like other LLCs, is comprised of members. On the other hand, a PC is comprised of shareholders. This distinction is important because PLLC ownership consists of membership interests in the business, while PC ownership is based on shares of stock.
In Florida, authorized licensed professionals can form both PLLCs and PCs. Although a PC has its appeal and provides liability protection, it requires more paperwork and, in some cases, does not benefit from the tax advantages of a PLLC.
Conclusion
It is highly recommended to speak with someone who specializes in healthcare when deciding on the best legal entity for your practice. The team at Jones Health Law is eager to assist authorized licensed professionals seeking instruction or guidance with the formation of a Florida PLLC or other business structure.
*****************************************************
It should be noted that I am not your lawyer (unless you have presently retained my services through a retainer agreement). This post is not intended as legal advice, it is purely educational and informational, and no attorney-client relationship shall result after reading it. Please consult your own attorney for legal advice. If you do not have one and would like to retain my legal services, please contact me using the contact information listed above.
All information and references made to laws, rules, regulations, and advisory opinions were accurate based on the law as it existed at this time, but laws are constantly evolving. Please contact me to be sure that the law which will govern your business is current. Thank you.
