Business Legal Tips

Reopening a Small Business in Massachusetts

Hope everybody is healthy and safe. Many Massachusetts small businesses that were shut down due to COVID-19 have contacted me about reopening their business. They are uncertain about when to reopen and what steps to take. Here is the most recent guidance about...

Small Business Resources For Handling the Coronavirus

It has been a crazy couple of weeks. The Coronavirus (COVID-19) is wreaking havoc on many small businesses. Is your business in need of help? Or do you know a business that needs help? Here is the most up to date information that I found (as of March 19,2020 March...

Successor Liability for Sole Proprietors

Did your sole proprietorship recently acquire all or nearly all of the assets from a corporation? Think you’re immune from the former corporation’s tortious liability? Watch out! A recent decision from the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court found that a sole...

Exceptions to the LLC Personal Liability Shield

A primary reason to set up an LLC (limited liability company) is to shield a business owner from personal liability for the debts, obligations and liabilities of the business. This protection, however, is not absolute. Some notable exceptions to the LLC personal...

The Difference Between an LLC and a Corporation

One question that I constantly hear is: What is the difference between a corporation and an LLC (Limited Liability Company)? This is not easy to answer because there are a lot of differences! Below are some of the most important differences. Governing Law One...

Reasons For a Registered Trademark

Does your business have distinctive name or logo? This blog post discusses the reasons to have a registered trademark.

Don’t Forget Your Corporate Records!

Small Massachusetts corporation often ignore their corporate records. This blog post discusses the corporate records that should be kept under Massachusetts law and the business reasons for keeping them.

Make Sure Your e-Commerce Business Website Terms and Conditions Are Enforceable

Does your e-Commerce business website have website terms and conditions or terms of use? Are they binding on customers who buy from your website? Don't be so sure! A recent case from the Northern District of Illinois highlights some potential problems. In that...

Improving a Service Contract to Reduce the Risk of Litigation

Does your Massachusetts business provide services to business customers? Does it use a written contract? Is the contract minimizing your risks of getting sued? Here are some helpful tips for improving a service contract to reduce the risk of litigation! Contract...

Lessons about Paying Wages to Massachusetts Tipped Employees

Are you a Massachusetts restaurant, hotel, or similar business? Are your employees paid tips? Avoid the mistakes made by a small Cohasset inn and restaurant when paying wages to Massachusetts tipped employees! Otherwise significant fines may be...