Contract Negotiations

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

What to Do Now that the FTC Has Outlawed Noncompete Agreements

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recently issued a “final rule” that bans noncompete agreements for employees, making them largely unenforceable. This new regulation significantly impacts how businesses can protect their interests, as noncompetes have traditionally been a common tool to prevent employees from joining competitors or starting rival businesses.  However, companies still have...

by Chris Swiecicki

Warning to Real Estate Developers: Get a Lawyer On Board Before You Contract with Engineers and Architects

A large part of real estate development requires entering into contracts with architects, engineers, and construction companies. The contracts can be complex, and worth millions…and if something goes wrong, someone will be left holding the bag—most often the developer. The best way to avoid such problems is by making sure your contract language is clear and comprehensive. This is usually done...

by Chris Swiecicki

When 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 Swiecicki

Looking 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 Swiecicki

Keep 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 Swiecicki

What 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 Swiecicki

Three 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 Swiecicki

7 Tips for Preparing for Contract Negotiations

Running a business involves managing risk in many forms, from economic downturns to severe weather. One risk has more influence over a company’s success than any other: how well its leaders manage contract negotiations.   Without skilled, experienced leaders at the table, businesses may suffer financially in employee contract negotiations. They also may settle for less in deals with business...

by Chris Swiecicki

What is the Difference Between a Merger, an Amalgamation, an Acquisition, and a Takeover?

As a small business owner, one of your long term goals could be to sell your business, or acquire another one to expand your reach. Either way, it’s a big decision, and understanding the different ways companies can combine with each other will give you more options and a greater understanding of the potential outcomes. There are four main types of business combinations: Mergers,...