Explaining The Different Tax Implications Between Business Structures
One of the most important decisions that a California business owner can make is which legal form it should take. From sole proprietorships to corporations, there are various entities to choose from. The choice you make will have an impact on your and your organization’s taxes.
Knowing the tax...
Violating Non-Disclosure Agreements: Consequences and Remedies
Non-disclosure agreements are designed to help businesses protect an array of ideas and information from being stolen. Without one of these agreements, also called an NDA, a company could be at the mercy of employees, contractors, and others who might exploit their business relationship for their own personal and financial gain. But...
How a Lawyer Can Help in Commercial Leases
Commercial leases in California set the framework for the relationship between landlords and tenants, impacting everything from the day-to-day operations of a business to long-term growth. These agreements address critical details like rent, property maintenance, and tenant improvements. The terms are often complex, and how they’re structured can significantly affect the future...
Characteristics (and Red Flags) to Look for When Buying a Business
Buying a business can be an exciting opportunity, but it’s also a decision that requires careful consideration. Beyond the sales pitch, every business has details that can reveal its true health and potential. Knowing what to look for—both positive characteristics and possible red flags—can help you make a well-informed decision. By recognizing...
Key Considerations When Opening a Brick and Mortar Storefront
To set up a brick-and-mortar storefront in California, you need to take several legal and practical steps that can significantly impact your business's success. From choosing the right business structure to following local regulations, each decision is vital for getting your storefront ready for operation. Understanding California’s specific requirements, like zoning...
Start-up Business: When Is the Best Time to Consult with a Lawyer?
Starting a new business is an exciting and challenging journey requiring careful planning and strategic decision-making. However, new businesses sometimes overlook one crucial aspect of starting a business: consulting an attorney.
Speaking to a lawyer early on can help start-ups avoid potential pitfalls and put them on the...
How to Legally Prepare Your Restaurant for Success in California
In 2023, restaurant openings in the U.S. were higher than pre-pandemic levels, with many hopeful restaurateurs diving into the industry despite the risks. However, the food industry can be unpredictable and volatile. If you’re planning to open a restaurant in California, legal planning is crucial to avoid common pitfalls that lead...
The Connelly Case: A Wake-Up Call for Small Business Owners with Buy-Sell Agreements Funded by Life Insurance
Connelly vs. Internal Revenue Service: A Critical Legal Development for Small Business Owners
Small business owners often rely on buy-sell agreements to ensure the smooth transition of ownership upon the death of a partner. These agreements, commonly funded by life insurance, provide a vital safety net, ensuring...
Selling a Business: Tips to Prepare for a Seamless Sale
The decision to sell a business in California is one of the most consequential ones an entrepreneur can make. Whether you're looking to retire, pursue new opportunities, or capitalize on your success, the process of selling a business can be complex and emotionally charged.
As experienced business law...
Protect Your New Business with Preventative Legal Planning
Most people are familiar with the idea of “preventative” legal action. The term refers to anticipating legal issues and conflicts and working to prevent them rather than solving them or “winning” them once they occur. Companies can benefit from implementing preventative legal strategies as this approach is often less expensive than litigation,...