In part one of a two-part series on consumer laws, we discussed the Consumer Sales practices Act (“CSPA”) and reviewed, generally, some rules that businesses should follow to have their best shot at keeping compliant under the CSPA. However, because the CSPA is technical and nuanced and its application is somewhat complicated and very fact driven, it is typically necessary to consult with an attorney to make sure you are protected. If that option is out of reach, one way to get familiar is to seek guidance at the Ohio Attorney General’s website. 

Why you need to understand the Consumer Sales Practices Act (“CSPA”)The CSPA is a series of laws that set forth many requirements that suppliers must follow in most commercial transactions.

In Part I of Litigation – what you can expect, we discussed the first two phases of litigation, which are pleadings and discovery. The next two phases of litigation are dispositive motions and preparation for trial prep / trial.

Whether it is you bringing the lawsuit or whether you are the one being sued and finding yourself defending allegations in court, there are certain things you should understand and expect.

onfidentiality (non-disclosure) agreements can be a very important part of many transactions and professional relationships. The trick is to know when you need one, and to know under what circumstances it is appropriate to request that one be signed or to sign one yourself.

The first thing to consider is that your business itself is an asset, your share/interest in a business is an asset with independent value, completely separate from the income generated from the business.

Commercial leases are very different from residential leases. They are typically set up so tenants cover things like insurance, property taxes, and maintenance. This structure is called a triple net lease. The tenant’s ability to negotiate can be somewhat difficult because landlords often want to offer their tenants the same rates. However, the market may help tenants negotiate more favorable terms if the space in question is not highly sought after. If that’s the case, a tenant could ask for more build out money or more parking spaces or even less base rent.  Additionally, if a landlord has a need to fill a spot quickly, that can be a time to try to negotiate your best deal. 

A strategic partnership is a contract that was formed on the basis of a mutually beneficial relationship between two business entities. For example, a small business and a larger business might partner for any number of reasons, including market access, common goals, or relationship building.

The most recent stimulus relief bill contains $284 billion for a second round of loans to small businesses under the government’s Paycheck Protection Program.

There is nothing more satisfying or more difficult than owning your own business. Starting and operating a small business is exciting, interesting and, arguably, a complete gamble. To increase your chances of success, be brave, work hard, and develop a relationship with a good lawyer.

You've got a cause you care about — now you just need the legal status that will help your organization raise money and work for that cause. Here are four steps to help you understand the process, but as always, call Wick Law for more details.

Right now, developing new ideas to supplement core products and services is one way businesses are continuing to operate and stay relevant. Post COVID-19, your small business may need to pivot and re-configure the day-to-day.

In the aftermath of COVID-19, many small businesses are making necessary pivots to their business model in order to stay afloat.

Many business owners choose to form their business as a Limited Liability Company (“LLC”) because of the protections afforded by this business structure. LLC members are able to protect themselves from certain debts and threats (lawsuits) that they would otherwise be exposed to. In other words, an owner/operator will not generally be held personally liable for the acts of the LLC.

. UNEMPLOYMENTPandemic Unemployment Assistance Program — The CARES Act, through the temporary Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program gives access to individuals not traditionally eligible, including self-employed, independent contractors and “gig workers” and those with limited work history, who are unable to work as a direct result of the coronavirus.

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act allocated $350 billion to help businesses keep workers employed during the pandemic and recovery. Most important to small businesses:•$10 billion has been set aside for emergency loans to help small businesses keep workers employed, including some that are forgivable;•$17 billion for loan subsidies through the SBA;•and $350 billion in loan guarantees.

Wick Law wants to provide small business owners with the latest COVID-19 related policies that could impact your business. See below for recent policy updates impacting your taxes, unemployment and workers’ compensation.

Wick Law is committed to helping small business owners be informed during this tough time.