Expert: Mike Dodds - 11/12/2008

Question
Hi there, not sure if you can help with this, but figured it couldn't hurt to ask!

I was recently laid off, and one of my vendors asked if I would be interested
in working for them as a US representative and help they establish a US
branch.  They want me to help them establish us clients, and hire freelance
art designers for them.  They have offered a 1 year commitment.  I am located
in Hillsborough, NJ

My question(s) are

-What steps do I need to take to help them establish a US branch, do I need
to set them up as an LLC? Is it different because they are in Ningbo, China?

-Would you recommend me suggesting that they hire me as a consultant vs
employee and set up my OWN LLC as a consultant company?  What are the
benefits to establishing an LLC vs being self employed and what would you
recommend?

-Based on above recommendation, what are the proper steps to ensure I am
doing this correctly and legally?

They have offered to pay me in USD via monthly bank deposit to a US Bank
account which I set up, which makes me feel they are willing to work with me
and flexible to my requests, and I have worked with this company for 3 years
prior to leaving my old position. I am very confused and need some direction.  

Answer
Dear Jocelyn,

I do not have time tonight to answer this in full as I'm on a business trip.  I've been in similar positions before so I have some experience that directly relates to your situation.  Please give me a couple of days to put together a response.

If you have some ideas about what you'd like to do please feel free to drop me an email, include your return email.  My email is east.west.pm@gmail.com.

I'll respond back in detail this weekend.

Best regards,
Mike Dodds
east.west.pm@gmail.com