Owning and operating a small business can be a challenging undertaking, especially for those who lack the resources or understanding needed to deal with a legal issue. From payroll disputes and hiring practices to learning how to protect intellectual property (IP), there are countless legal risks, concerns, and situations that small business owners need to know about in order to better protect themselves and their company.
Hiring Practices and Employee Termination
Failing to screen and hire employees in a manner that is compliant with all relevant legal stipulations, guidelines, and practices can be nothing short of a disaster. Terminating an employee in an inappropriate manner can likewise lead to any number of legal consequences. Small business owners would do well to spend the time and effort necessary to ensure that their hiring and human resources efforts and practices are all above board and compliant with the law. Consulting with a lawyer or other legal professional who has the experience and know-how needed to better address such concerns can often be worthwhile.
Licenses and Certifications
Depending on the industry, even smaller operations and new startups may be required to obtain numerous business licenses and certifications in order to remain legally compliant. Lacking the necessary license or allowing an existing certification to lapse or expire can be a very costly mistake. Depending on the license involved, potential consequences can range from costly fines to legal injunctions which could halt operations or even call the long-term viability of a business into question. Obtaining the necessary licensing and keeping all certifications current and up-to-date is never a matter that should be left to chance.
Trademarks and Intellectual Property
Failing to protect their patents, trademarks, and other IPs can be a more costly misstep than many business owners might realize. The complex nature of IP laws means that seeking help from a qualified business attorney is often necessary. You can reach out to places like LegalShield to find experienced legal professionals to make it much easier to protect a trademark or to ensure that efforts to manage and maintain IP and similar resources are able to be as effective as possible.
Workplace Safety
Providing staff, associates, and visitors with a safe environment and a secure workplace is another concern that owners cannot afford to discount. Being found legally responsible for a workplace injury, on-the-job accident or other accident can be incredibly expensive, both financially as well as the impact that such an incident might have on a business’s brand, reputation, or image. For business owners who find themselves dealing with a safety issue or faced with a legal suit or a worker’s compensation claim, contacting an attorney without delay is always the best way to deal with the situation.
Few business owners possess the legal skills, insight, and specific knowledge that may be required to address every risk, concern, or situation. Seeking help from professionals can ensure that any legal matters that may crop up are able to be managed more quickly and effectively. Working with an attorney ensures that small business owners will be better equipped to identify potential legal issues or to manage risks with greater ease.
