by Chris SwiecickiWhen is the Right Time to Bring in an Attorney for a Business Contract?
Every business, no matter how small, will eventually need to enter into some type of transaction that requires a formal contract. Small business owners may be tempted to draft a contract themselves or choose from online sources that promise easy-to-use contract templates. They may not feel the need to involve an attorney unless something goes wrong. While we understand the desire to save time...
by Chris SwiecickiLooking for Business Contract Templates? Read This First
In the world of business, contracts keep transactions running smoothly. Contracts define the rights and obligations of the parties involved and provide the legal framework for business relationships. Online contract templates offer businesses an accelerated, often inexpensive way to get some legal coverage and ensure their interests are represented. After all, having a written contract is...
by Chris SwiecickiKeep it in the Family? Why Family Businesses Need a Good Attorney, Too
A family business can become a lasting legacy, passed down for generations. But professional and personal interests don’t always mix as well as everyone hopes. Even the closest families can find themselves at odds. While some might prefer to keep family conflict to themselves and resolve issues privately, it is better to find a lawyer to help out a family business. A family business lawyer...
by Chris SwiecickiWhat is the “Representations and Warranties” Section of a Purchase Agreement for, and Why is it Important?
When buying or selling a business, an accurate representations and warranties section of a purchase agreement is critical for ensuring a smooth transition. Any size entity, whether a small family business or larger corporation, is bound to the facts stated in the agreement in order to close the transaction. Because there are so many legal details that could result in indemnification...
by Chris SwiecickiIs There a Statute of Limitations on Patent Infringement?
Does your business have a patent that another company has infringed upon? Or are you being blamed for stealing someone else’s idea or product? In either case, you may be wondering how long you have to take legal action. I myself have been co-counsel on a patent-infringement case having to do with a piece of technology (a parking app, to be precise). That said, it’s important to state:...
by Chris SwiecickiWhat Happens When Labor Union Contract Negotiations Break Down?
From time to time, contract negotiations stall between small businesses and their union employees. This scenario can seem daunting for businesses relying heavily on union labor, especially if they are trying to handle negotiations without an employment lawyer. Employment lawyers help business owners make informed, rational decisions. They explain their rights and responsibilities under...
by Chris SwiecickiHow Long Does the Average M&A Deal Take?
Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) are complex business transactions that can significantly impact companies, industries, and even whole economies. They involve the combination of two or more companies, either through a merger (the coming together of equals) or an acquisition (one company purchasing another). Business owners, even though they are aware of the complexity of such deals, are...
by Chris SwiecickiThree Kinds of Conflicts Where a Corporate Lawyer is Essential
“Corporate law” is a broad category involving all legal issues of establishing, managing, and operating a corporate entity. But at the same time, it is a highly specialized area of practice. Out of the 1.3 million attorneys in the American Bar Association, less than 15,000 are classified as corporate lawyers. Within this group, there are specialties within the specialty. For example, an...
by Chris SwiecickiPotential Tax Implications of Employment Settlements
Employee settlements are a fact of life for many businesses. The tax implications of those settlements, however, are too often an afterthought. Both parties involved should know the potential tax implications of employment settlements—understanding the tax treatment of settlement payments, their deductibility, and any reporting requirements can help both sides maximize benefits and avoid...
by Chris Swiecicki