In our world of electronic communication, your business needs to be prepared to handle a major risk of litigation in which you could be responsible to produce records, reports and data from your computer network and systems. Electronic discovery could cost your business tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars, if you are sued. […]
Read MoreRidesharing companies like Uber and Lyft have been front and center in recent media stories and court decisions. All across the country, drivers have brought lawsuits arguing that they are employees of these companies, rather than independent contractors. If you own a business and think these stories have no relevance to you, think again. What […]
Read MoreIf you are involved in a lawsuit, the thought of going to trial may be intimidating. Many people have never been in a courtroom, so they envision a large, formal room with wooden trim, an overbearing judge in a long, black robe, and a jury that appears condemning. Most lawsuits, however, never go to trial. […]
Read MoreThe Internet has changed the way businesses negotiate, review and revise their contracts. Sending emails back and forth can make the process faster and more convenient, but you should be aware that it can also lead to inadvertent liability. The use of electronic evidence or digital data has drastically increased in courtrooms across the country. […]
Read MoreMany business owners make the choice to operate as a limited liability company (LLC) for the personal liability protection this business entity provides. Beyond that, they may not give much thought to creating an LLC operating agreement since most states have LLC laws with default provisions that dictate how the LLC will be managed. However, […]
Read MoreWhile there is no such thing as a business with no risk, most savvy business owners look for ways to mitigate risk as much as possible. Being aware of these three legal risks will create an understanding for the future of your business. Trusting a verbal or handshake agreement. This is more common early in […]
Read MoreEvery business owner at one time or another needs legal advice. While it may be tempting to turn to the Internet for your legal needs, there are three important instances when you will want to consult with a real live Family Business Lawyer™: Entity Formation When you are ready to start your business, you will […]
Read MoreTerri Kelly, a mother of six who started her “second life” as an entrepreneur designing comfortable flip-flops, did everything right when she launched her company. First, she designed a great product that addressed a market need. She worked tirelessly to get her product into shops, boutiques and local stores. And she trademarked her unique branding […]
Read MoreEntrepreneurs often make up in enthusiasm what they lack in business experience, but passion alone is not enough to ensure the success of a startup. If you’re starting a new business, you need to watch for the following six legal snares that could potentially sink your startup: Lease agreements. A commercial lease is much different […]
Read MoreAccording to the U.S. Small Business Administration, more than half of small business startups in the last 10 years have been home-based. Whether you are contemplating setting up shop at home as a consultant, a baker or a handy man, there are certain legalities that need to be considered to ensure you have protected yourself […]
Read MoreThese days, many people are reinventing their work lives by investing in a franchise. Franchises offer the benefit of a proven business model, making them attractive to new business owners who seek to manage risk and protect their investment. However, franchise agreements are not forever and there are circumstances when a franchise owner chooses — […]
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