by Chris SwiecickiSonny Did Not Rollover: Some Perils of Holding and Transferring Nontraditional Assets in IRAs
I was delighted when asked to be co-author with Richard Wise on this article, which first appear in the St. Louis Bar Journal. Richard is a wealth of information on many topics, and I was happy to contribute my two cents on this particular case. Readers who want the full version, complete with footnotes, should check out the edition published by the Bar Journal. With the popularity of using...
by Chris SwiecickiChoosing a Legal Ownership Structure for a New Business
In the early stages of a business, a lot is riding on every decision. Choosing the legal ownership structure, for example, can impact taxes, legal liability, and the business’s day-to-day operations. While it is possible to change the structure of a business after setting it up, that can involve unnecessary hassle. It is better to understand the pros and cons of each structure and its...
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 Swiecicki