Home > Run and Grow > Legal > The 6 Worst Legal Mistakes Businesses Can Make

The 6 Worst Legal Mistakes Businesses Can Make

By: SmallBizClub

 

176305b02b8b14f75f2e6c696c06f6d6
Being a business owner requires making many important decisions. Making the wrong choice in certain cases could land your company in legal hot water. Below are six of the worst legal mistakes any business can make.

 
You Haven’t Incorporated When You Should Have
 
One big mistake that many entrepreneurs make is choosing the incorrect legal form for their company. While many people are successful sole proprietors or partners, most of these businesses stay rather small. If you get too successful, you are likely to be sued for something at some point, and your personal assets could be at risk.
 
Your Business Is Not Licensed
 
One mistake many people make is not gaining the appropriate licenses to practice their trade. This should include federal, state and local licenses. You also need to make sure you are following all zoning laws as well. Otherwise, your business could be shut down by authorities.
 
You Don’t Actually Own Your Intellectual Property
 
During the planning stages of your business, you need to make sure that you do in fact have the legal right to use your logos, names, content and business processes. Do research to find out if these are already copyrighted or trademarked by another party. If you don’t, prepare for a cease and desist order.
 
 
You Haven’t Purchased Business Insurance
 
Insurance needs to be purchased to protect a business and its assets from things like fires, floods, theft and lawsuits. If your company doesn’t have the appropriate coverage, you could be put out of business due to a sudden event.
 
You Have Poor Legal Representation
 
If you are a large enough business, you should always make sure to hire an experienced legal team to defend your company in court. You should also make sure to have appropriate court reporting and litigation support services from a company that specializes in this area.
 
 
Your Employee Contracts are Inadequate
 
You need to make sure the contracts your employees sign are legally enforceable and have been reviewed by a lawyer. Otherwise, you may end up making your company a target for workplace discrimination lawsuits. Another common mistake is forgetting to include a non-disclosure agreement when employees are exposed to important company information.
 
The legal aspect to your business is one of the most important ones you should be aware of. It can determine whether your company succeeds or fails. Make sure all facets of your business are operating legally.
 
Anita GinsburgAuthor: Anita Ginsburg is a freelance writer from Denver, CO. She enjoys writing about business, education, home and family. Informational credit to NAEGELI.
Published: February 10, 2015
4061 Views

small biz club logo

SmallBizClub

SmallBizClub.com is dedicated to providing small businesses and entrepreneurs the information and resources they need to start, run, and grow their businesses. The publication was founded by successful entrepreneur and NFL Hall of Fame QB Fran Tarkenton. We bring you the most insightful thinking from industry leaders, veteran business owners, and fellow entrepreneurs. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

Trending Articles

Stay up to date with