Business Litigation

by Chris Swiecicki

When Your Sales Commission Agreement Isn’t Enough: How Missouri Law Overrides Some Contract Terms

Commission agreements are an important part of running a sales-driven business. They help set expectations, motivate your team, and protect your margins. But even the clearest, most carefully drafted agreement can run into trouble if it conflicts with Missouri law. That’s because some rights, particularly when it comes to paying sales representatives, are written directly into the statutes—and...

by Chris Swiecicki

Choosing 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 Swiecicki

Is 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 Swiecicki

What Does a Business Litigation Attorney Do?

When starting a business, few owners expect to end up facing a lawsuit. But at some point during the life of the company, they may end up on either side of a legal dispute This could be with another business, customers, suppliers, lenders, employees, or a government entity. It can also be between the company’s business partners. These circumstances all call for legal help. What does a business...

by Chris Swiecicki

What is a Merger and Acquisition Lawyer? When Do You Need One?

Merger and acquisition lawyers help companies that are at a crossroads. They facilitate deals and advise owners who are looking to sell their business, buy another business, or combine assets and resources to create a new entity. The merger and acquisition (M&A) branch of law brings together multiple disciplines, including accounting, tax law, real estate, government and industry...

by Chris Swiecicki

What Business Legal Fees are Tax Deductible?

As a small business owner, you know how important it is to seek legal advice and services when needed. From drafting contracts to resolving disputes, legal fees can quickly add up. However, many types of legal fees are tax-deductible, potentially saving you money come tax season. Just which legal fees are eligible for tax deductions? And are there any tax advantages of legal services worth...

by Chris Swiecicki

Mergers and Acquisitions: The Perils of Breaking a Stock Purchase Agreement

At Swiecicki & Muskett, LLC, we often litigate interesting cases that illustrate just how important it is to follow the terms of a contract. One recent case involved our appeal of findings in favor of the seller of a business. We aimed to prove that the company breached its Stock Purchase Agreement (SPA) with the buyer, despite the original court ruling in the seller’s favor. (more…)