Startups generally have few employees during the early stages of its existence. As a result, many startups may find it to be unnecessary to have —and regularly maintain— an employment handbook. Though startups may find it easier and adequate to have more informal discussions of company policies, it is often advisable to develop and distribute […]
How can I Avoid Litigation for my Startup?
When an entrepreneur wants to start a business, they are likely focused on making a profit and not thinking about potential conflicts that can result in litigation. However, conflicts involving a new business can arise when you least expect it and can escalate quickly into a lawsuit if they are not properly addressed. Before you […]
Is an Angel Investor Right for My Business?
Many startup companies need outside funding to get their business off the ground. Traditional means of acquiring capital include business loans, boot strapping, mortgages, and funds from venture capitalists. Startups now have access to another source of capital: angel investors. According to the Angel Capital Association (ACA), angel investors are high-net-worth individuals who invest their […]
How can I Protect my Personal Assets?
Entrepreneurs generally form a corporation as a means of protecting personal assets. For example, corporate entities can protect the entrepreneur’s personal assets from plaintiffs who win a judgment against the company. Corporate entities foster business growth and expansion by protecting the individuals who actually run the company. Sometimes, however, a court permits a plaintiff to […]
What Should a Startup Include in its LLC Operating Agreement?
Startups formed as a Limited Liability Company (LLC) should always draft an Operating Agreement. An Operating Agreement is a set of rules agreed upon by the LLC’s members. These rules govern, among other things, the startup’s daily operations, issues relating to finances, and ownership percentages. Most importantly, the Operating Agreement will serve to guard the […]
What is the Process of Applying for a Trademark in California?
What is a Trademark Designing a trademark is an integral component of a startup company’s branding and marketing strategy. A trademark associates a product or service with the source of the product of service. The trademark helps potential consumers to recognize the company and associate the mark with the company’s products and services. Therefore, registering […]
How Much Does it Cost to Form an LLC in California?
When starting a company in California there are many considerations to take. Many startup owners choose to form a limited liability company (LLC) because of its tax flexibility and protection for owners and their personal assets. However, in order to receive the benefits of an LLC, potential startup owners must take the necessary steps to […]
How can I Plan Ahead for Potential Dissolution?
The last thing any startup entrepreneur ever wants to think about is the process of dissolving their company. Given the exceptional failure rate of startups in today’s economy, it is not uncommon for entrepreneurs to dissolve a startup at least once throughout their careers. Planning ahead for a potential dissolution can save in legal disputes […]
Why is A Sound Business Plan Important?
Every business can benefit from having a sound business plan, for startup companies, having a sound business plan is an absolute necessity. Investors and potential business partners will want to see a solid business plan in place before considering, let alone committing to a financing investment. The business plan should demonstrate the vision of the […]
Moonlighting – Can I Launch My Own Startup While Employed?
It is not uncommon today for many people to hold more than one job. Many full-time employees often find themselves “moonlighting”—a term used for working a second job after one’s regular form of employment—in order to make ends meet. Sometimes, these jobs are launched by the individual who is attempting to draw a source of […]