I suggest you talk to a small business attorney in your state. It's well worth the cost of one hour of his time.

>I'm going to be doing some side contracting work and want the release from personal liability that an LLC can offer. Do I need to form an LLC, or are there other easier avenues?
>
>I was researching forming an LLC on legalzoom, but quickly found many instances where the lack of personal attention caused problems that needed a legal remedy regardless.
>
>Factors:
>1) Not a primary source of income
>2) Ongoing, with a partner
>3) Would prefer cheap, because it is not a primary source of income