Journal
Clearing the Hurdles to Sell Your Business
My niece runs the hurdles in track. I love to run, but don’t think I would enjoy running nearly as much if I had to constantly jump over hurdles in my path. The thing about hurdles is they stand in your way, slow you down, and sometimes take you out. It makes me grimace to…
Read MoreTrademark Scams
Why Trademarks or Service Marks? A number of my clients have filed for federal trademark registrations with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, and there are great reasons to do so. For one, a federal trademark registration may provide protection throughout the United States for your trade name, brand or logo. If successful, the registration…
Read MoreNorth Carolina Annual Report Filing Changes
The North Carolina General Assembly recently passed legislation (Session Law 2010-31), which went into effect June 30, 2010, making a few changes in the annual report filing requirements for North Carolina corporations and limited liability companies. Amazingly, the new law may actually result in some limited liability companies not having to pay the $200 annual…
Read MoreIncorporating Your Start-up Business
You have a great new business concept (or even better, you’re buying someone else’s great business concept), a cool name, and plans to be in business by next month. Maybe you have even met with an accountant to review your business plan and set up your books, which is always a good idea. You’ve noticed…
Read MoreNegotiating Commercial Leases (Part 2)
Signing a commercial lease is often one of the first significant financial commitments that an entrepreneur will be required to make to his or her new business venture. Landlords will generally demand a personal guaranty of the lease by the business owner(s), requiring personal assets to be placed at risk. Accordingly, any prospective tenant should…
Read MoreNegotiating Commercial Leases (Part 1)
At some time in the life of their business, most business owners will find occasion to lease commercial space. While owning business real estate can be desirable, many businesses cannot afford a significant cash outlay, particularly at the development stage. For those contemplating a new lease or lease extension for your business, the purpose of…
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