Executives, managers and other leaders at successful organizations sometimes have to make difficult choices. For example, sometimes conducting a large-scale staff reduction or downsizing effort might be necessary for the long-term solvency of the company. Any scenario...
Business Law
When a vendor doesn’t honor the terms of a contract
If you run a small business, you may rely on vendors and suppliers to provide goods and services to remain operational. However, there may come a time when a vendor fails to honor the terms of a contract, which could leave you in a difficult position. Whether a...
Why business owners might change their legal business structure
One of the first decisions an entrepreneur needs to make is what legal formation structure they intend to use for their company. The form or entity type that they select can affect everything from their control over the company to their income tax obligations....
The strategic move: When do we outsource employment law matters?
In the complex realm of employment law, in-house counsel often serves as the first line of defense against legal challenges within a company. However, there are situations where the experience of outside counsel is invaluable. For business owners and in-house legal...
How some unhappy clients use the internet to defame companies
Many local businesses live or die based on word-of-mouth referrals from their customers and clients. People may recommend their hairdresser or favorite coffee shop to friends and coworkers. They may also warn their neighbors and family members not to hire a plumber...
3 important considerations when buying out a business partner
The financial and time commitments involved in building a business from the ground up can deter many would-be entrepreneurs from developing potentially groundbreaking business models because they don't want to risk their financial stability or undermine the progress...
4 things to do when you have a dispute with a vendor
Your vendors are key to your business operations, so a dispute that gets out of hand can be very disruptive – not to mention expensive. Minimizing disputes with your vendors can be challenging enough, but responding to an actual conflict can be even harder. When...
Can you protect your business from online defamation?
Online sharing has made it easier than ever before for customers to spread the word about brands and products they truly enjoy. There are also forums and social media platforms where professionals network and discuss different companies from the perspective of working...
Has Rhode Island banned non-compete agreements?
Employers in Rhode Island must adhere to federal and state laws regarding how they treat employees. The terms in your employment contract and the compensation that you pay your workers are subject to government oversight. Employees could bring expensive claims against...
3 ways small businesses can protect themselves from lawsuits
Successful small businesses are frequently the targets of civil lawsuits. Claims could come from just about anyone who works with or for your business. A former worker could try to come after your company because they are upset that you fired them. A customer could...