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Why litigation experience matters when choosing a lawyer
When the big law firms hire lawyers, they often look to recent law school graduates, evaluating them by their grades, their class rank and other simple metrics. And many of these new hires turn out to be excellent lawyers: they’re smart, hard-working and committed. But anyone who has worked in...
Continue ReadingAm I completely barred from using noncompetes now?
One of the many tools that small businesses owners use to protect their business is noncompete clauses and contracts to protect their business secrets. However, in a pivotal decision, the Federal Trade Commission has voted to prohibit for-profit United States employers from enforcing noncompete clauses in employment contracts. This potentially...
Continue ReadingWhat happens to a family business in divorce?
Your marriage is over, and you are heading for divorce. Property division is a major part of the divorce process in Pennsylvania. This process can be complex, and the situation becomes even trickier if you own a business with your spouse. Chances are you and your spouse were not contemplating...
Continue ReadingIf you are a landlord, you are a small business owner
Many people in the Lancaster area may own an extra home in the area. Others may even rent space in their own residence to make some extra money. While they might not think of it this way, any Pennsylvania landlord is also a small business owner. This is true even...
Continue ReadingWhat are the differences between LLCs and corporations?
Starting a business in Pennsylvania is an exciting time for many people. It can also be nerve-wracking as there are many aspects of running a business that people need learn when they get started. People may understand the product or service that they are providing and may have clients and...
Continue ReadingUnderstanding small business tax credits
Whether you are just starting your small business in Lancaster or have been in business for a while, it is important to know about potential tax credits that might be available to you. Feeling anxious or stressed during tax season is normal, but knowing you are using the available small...
Continue ReadingDrafting your LLC operating agreement
Once you’ve decided to form your limited liability corporation (LLC), there are many things you need to do as part of the startup process. One of your main tasks is drafting an operating agreement. What is an operating agreement? An LLC operating agreement is a written document that states the...
Continue ReadingBusinesses of all sizes need ongoing legal support
While Lancaster and the surrounding areas have their share of large employers, many if not most people in the area earn their living by working for or owning small or mid-sized businesses. Many of these smaller businesses will either have no full-time in-house attorneys or a very limited staff. Even...
Continue ReadingDeciding on the right type of business structure
When a person wants to start a business, he or she may want to understand what type of business structure is the right one to use. In Pennsylvania, there are four main types of business structures, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Each business structure has its own registration...
Continue ReadingWhat should I consider when deciding where to locate my business?
After graduation from high school or college, many young adults have a good idea for a business they and a buddy want to go into together. It could be a landscaping business, a coffee shop or an accounting firm. Really, the possibilities are endless for those who are willing to...
Continue Reading3 tips to avoid vague language in a business contract
Whether you are in the early stages of business formation or are developing relationships to further grow your organization, writing strong contracts is crucial. It is common for the owner to favor his or her business in the terms of the contract, but it is important to use clear, concise...
Continue ReadingNon-compete agreements aren’t always enforceable. Will yours be?
By their very nature, non-compete agreements in employment are a restraint on trade. If you require employees to sign these agreements, you should be aware that there are limitations on what can be in the agreement. Courts will scrutinize these agreements for fairness and legality. A non-compete agreement is a...
Continue ReadingPros and Cons of business partnerships
Business ownership can lead to long hours and hard work, but if you put in the time and effort, the feeling of success, security and freedom and worth it. You have had a business idea for a while but aren’t sure where to get started. What if you brought in...
Continue ReadingFour things to do before you start a business
Taking the plunge by starting your own business for the first time is bound to feel exciting, scary and so right. It’s a risk, but there are ways to reduce the risk and maximize the chance that you’ll be the best boss you ever had. Here are some of the...
Continue ReadingCan I name my LLC whatever I want?
You’ve decided to finally take the leap and start your own limited liability company (LLC). Congratulations. This is an exciting decision to make. One of the first things you figure out after the purpose of your business is what you’re going to call it. Although this is one of the...
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