Yes, absolutely. A Michigan LLC owned by Gonen Statutory Trust — Series AGU can be named Finn’s Fishery LLC.
An LLC’s legal name does not have to include the name of its owner, parent company, or trust.
How the Options Work in Practice
Option A: “Finn’s Fishery LLC” as the Legal Entity Name
You can form the Michigan LLC directly with LARA (Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs) under the legal name Finn’s Fishery LLC.
- State Filings: In the Articles of Organization or internal Operating Agreement, the sole member/owner will be listed as Gonen Statutory Trust — Series AGU.
- Bank & Public View: To the public and on your bank statements, the business is simply Finn’s Fishery LLC.
Option B: “Finn’s Fishery” as an Assumed Name (DBA)
If you form the Michigan LLC under a legal name matching the trust (e.g., Gonen AGU LLC), you can file a Certificate of Assumed Name (Form CSCL/CD-541) with LARA to officially operate publicly as Finn’s Fishery.
Three Rules to Keep in Mind
- Required Designator: In Michigan, the official legal name must include an LLC ending (such as Finn’s Fishery LLC or Finn’s Fishery L.L.C.). If you drop the “LLC” on storefront signs or menus, you should file a $25 Certificate of Assumed Name for Finn’s Fishery.
- Name Availability: The name must be distinguishable on the record from existing active entities in Michigan. Conduct a quick search on the Michigan LARA Business Entity Search system before filing.
- Execution of Contracts: When signing official documents, the sign-off block maintains the asset shield while keeping the public name clean: Finn’s Fishery LLC By: Gonen Statutory Trust — Series AGU, its Sole Member By: ______________________, Trustee / Authorized Signer