When To Call A Small Business Lawyer For Legal Disputes

Running a small business can be empowering and rewarding, however, legal disputes are sometimes an inevitable part of your business journey. Whether you’re handling contract disagreements, employee issues or dealing with regulatory compliance, understanding when to call a small business lawyer can often save you time and money. Knowing when to reach out for help can make a world of difference for your business.

You should always reach out to your small business lawyer when faced with any of the following situations:

1) Business Formation and Structure

The legal and tax implications associated with your business structure can have an impact on your business. Whether you choose to create an LLC, corporation, partnership, etc. do so after you have consulted with your business lawyer. Your lawyer will be able to advise you on the most appropriate business entity based on your needs. They will also be able to help you remain compliant with local business regulations.

2) Contract Disputes

Contracts are often the core of any business transaction. If a vendor, supplier, client, or even a trusted partner breaches an agreement. Your business attorney can help enforce the contract or negotiate a settlement that benefits all parties. In Florida, the validity of written contracts will be upheld. Having reliable legal counsel will ensure that your agreements are not only drafted properly but that they are also enforceable. Your lawyer can also help ensure that none of your contracts contain ambiguous language. Your attorney will also be able to advise you if any contracts presented to you for agreement are unfair to you.

3) Employee and Labor Disputes

While the state of Florida follows “at-will” employment, there are certain legal obligations that must be met. Your business lawyer will be able to advise you if you end up facing wrongful termination claims, wage disputes, harassment complaints or even have to handle issues related to non-compete agreements. Your lawyer can also assist in the drafting of employee handbooks, workplace policies and ensure compliance with federal regulations such as the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Keep in mind that a lack of compliance with federal or state legislation will be harmful to your business.

4) Partner Disputes

In an ideal world, you’d be able to start a business with a friend or family member and continue the relationship without any business or relationship-ending disputes or disagreements. Disagreements between business partners are more common than you may think. These disagreements can be due to a range of things, such as profit distribution, decision-making authority, and even future goals or plans. The issue arises when these disagreements disrupt operations and lead to financial losses. Irrespective of what the conflict is about, a lawyer can help mediate the conflict and enforce partnership agreements. In the worst-case scenario, your attorney will be able to assist in the dissolution of the business.

5) Intellectual Property (IP) Infringement

Coming up with a new or novel business idea is not easy, which is why it’s so important that you protect your brand’s IP. If someone infringes on your trademark, copyright, or even makes use of your trade secrets, your attorney can help you take legal action under the legislated federal and state intellectual property laws. Additionally, your lawyer can assist you with registering trademarks and copyrights. By registering trademarks, you will have greater protection against potential infringement and/or copycat businesses.

6) Regulatory and Compliance Issues

Businesses in the state of Florida must adhere to a variety of both state and local regulations. This includes things such as licensing, zoning, and environmental laws. If your business is facing fines or legal action for non-compliance, your attorney can help resolve these issues. They will also be able to ensure that you prevent future violations by ensuring that everything related to your business is updated and compliant. If you haven’t yet launched your business, a small business lawyer can guide you through the regulatory requirements necessary for your business. This will ensure that you are ahead of the game and compliant with your local and state laws as well as any industry-specific legislation.

7) Commercial Litigation

Disputes can escalate into lawsuits, and irrespective of where the dispute originated from, a skilled business lawyer is essential. Your lawyer will be able to represent your company in court, negotiate settlements, and ensure that your legal rights remain protected. Commercial litigation can include matters such as a breach of contract, fraud allegations, disputes with former employees, or even accusations of unfair competition. Having an attorney on hand to respond to such claims can lead to a quicker resolution, either through negotiation or via alternative dispute resolution methods such as mediation or arbitration.

8) Debt and Other Financial Disputes

If anyone fails to pay their dues, your attorney can assist with debt collection efforts will ensuring that you remain compliant with the state’s fair debt collection regulations. Your attorney can help you draft enforceable credit agreements, send letters of demand, and initiate legal action when necessary. On the reverse side, your attorney can also help defend you against unfair debt collection claims brought against your business.