Small Business

Generally, when lawyers talk about small business, they are talking about collection issues, negotiating a contract, and forming an LLC or corporation.  I have handled all of those in my practice, and can assist you with any of them.  I have also litigated business disputes, and can advise you how to avoid the problems that lead to litigation, and if it comes to that, file suit to get you what you deserve.

Where I bring value that perhaps other attorneys do not, is that I have owned and operated a number of small businesses.  Besides my firm, I have been a franchisee for an international fast food chain, I own a title insurance company – Kings River Title (www.kingsrivertitle.com), and I am an owner in a real estate investment company.  I have dealt with a franchisor over several years, and can discuss with you the pitfalls and the upsides of being a franchisee.  I am in businesses with partners, both family and friends, and can tell you the keys to drafting agreements and forming entities that preserve friendships and still allow everyone in the family to sit down together over the holidays.  I can tell you what has worked for me in terms of divisions of labor among owners/investors, settling disputes between partners, deciding when and how to sell, and so on.

I have also made mistakes in my businesses, which has taught me things that I want to make sure you avoid.  I have lost money because I did not have the time to stay on top of the business.  I have dealt with partners who I should have been paying a lot more attention to, and lost money as a result.  Those lessons have been as invaluable as my successes in business, and I believe they will help you avoid many of the same pitfalls.

If you are thinking of starting a business, or already have one and just have some questions, please contact me.  The initial consultation is free.