This is one of those gray legal areas where the answer is “it depends on the facts of the situation.” Previously, I wrote about the basics of non-compete and non-solicitation agreements that are becoming increasingly common in all industries. At their core, non-compete agreements restrain the free labor market, and are therefore analyzed under the…
Tag: starting a business
4 Must Have Legal Documents for New Business Owners
Whether you are a one-man computer whiz coding the next blockbuster iPhone app, or a five-employee manufacturer making parts for a Tier 1 auto supplier, you need basic corporate forms to protect your assets and investments. A limited liability company (or LLC) is the preferred way to organize and obtain this protection. Plus, if you…
Terror From Beyond the Grave: 5 Critical Mistakes To Avoid When Terminating Your Company
It is a classic horror movie plot line. The good guy finally killed off that scary monster/evil janitor/gremlin. Hooray! Triumphant, the hero turns his back to celebrate with fellow survivors when SUDDENLY the monster/evil janitor/gremlin rises from the dead to take down that one final victim! In the business world, if you do not take…
‘Tis the Season for (Corporate) Resolutions!
What do you associate most with the start of a new year? I personally think of resolutions and how the gym used to get crowded with all those who resolve to get in shape. So for many, the New Year is about a new start, a chance to set goals, and a chance to catch…
Starting a Business? Choose Your Organizational Structure!
Every business owner needs to incorporate. Forget about sole proprietorships or a partnership — running your business without formally organizing is like driving without insurance: You will be OK so long as you don’t get into an accident. But when someone rear-ends you, you will be in dire financial straits regardless of who caused the…
Why Annual Meetings Are Critical to Protecting Your Personal Assets From Business Debts.
As a new and growing business owner, you read my articles on incorporation and essential corporate documents, and took my advice to heart. You retained an attorney and accountant, drafted and filed the basic forms, and Small Business LLC is up-and-running. However, you are not done — there are important steps to take for you…
5 Often-Overlooked Essentials When Selling Your Business
You finally got that phone call from the California venture capital firm that wants to buy your start-up for a couple of million dollars. You are eager to sell and use that money to pursue other projects and passions. The attorneys and accountants have been retained, and the Asset Purchase Agreement has been drafted. But…