Advice for New Business Partnerships I have seen dozens of these scenarios fail. Literally dozens. And the one thing they all have in common are mis-matched expectations. Expectations about who is responsible for what, how the work will get done, and most importantly, who gets to make the final decision on issues. These new business…

When a prospective client contacts us and explains that they have a claim to assert, I will almost invariably recommend and propose that they engage us to prepare a demand letter for submission to the opposing party. As part of the drafting of a demand letter, we first need to learn as much as we…

Market analysts said early on this year that 2021 would be huge for the special purpose acquisition company (SPAC). And so far, we’d have to agree. SPACs are basically “shell” or “blank check” companies that exist in the public markets solely to raise investor funds and then acquire existing private companies. A SPAC then becomes…

It’s tempting to think that only major, drastic changes to your lifestyle can make any significant difference to your health, but that’s not the case. In fact, not only can small changes add up to a distinct shift in your wellbeing, but you’re also more likely to stick to them. Try integrating these small tweaks…

Have you heard the tale of the experienced lawyer who stayed up through the night doing legal research before a trial? In his desire to be thorough, this diligent legal professional ended up stumbling upon a case that provided just the support he needed for his argument.  He was able to make a powerful case…

One of the worst things that business owners and professionals can face is litigation. The problem with litigation is that it can be very costly and time-consuming. It is also mentally and emotionally taxing, which is why most people prefer to avoid it. This is where alternative dispute resolution (ADR) comes in. An increasing number…

Let’s get into the fascinating world of discovery.  I remember my initial experience of the term like it was yesterday. During my early years in private law practice I assisted the seasoned attorneys with discovery. It sounded beyond exciting, as if we’d be tackling fast-paced scientific exploration, investigating stem cell research, or doing something even…

Business plans are critically important to the success of any and all businesses NOT DESPITE THE FACT that they will need to be repeatedly or continuously reviewed and rewritten, BUT BECAUSE THEY WILL be repeatedly and continuously reviewed and rewritten, keeping the underlying business subject to examination and inquiry. I have been working on a business plan over the…

When potential business owners are looking to buy, their glasses are often rose-tinted. They are determined to carry out every part of the search for a prospect on their own and probably underestimate how long it might take to find an ideal candidate.  A key example is a first time business buyer who I’ve been…

Breaking It Down: The Eighth of the Ten Commandments of Business Acquisitions Our Ten Commandments of Business Acquisitions has been so popular that we have decided to break it down. To briefly discuss each of the Ten Commandments, and its import and impact. The Eighth Commandment: “Offer a Fair Price” A prospective buyer should attempt…

Breaking It Down: The Eighth of the Ten Commandments of Business Acquisitions Our Ten Commandments of Business Acquisitions has been so popular that we have decided to break it down. To briefly discuss each of the Ten Commandments, and its import and impact. The Eighth Commandment: “Offer a Fair Price” A prospective buyer should attempt…

Breaking It Down: The Seventh of the Ten Commandments of Business Acquisitions Our Ten Commandments of Business Acquisitions has been so popular that we have decided to break it down. To briefly discuss each of the Ten Commandments, and its import and impact. After a brief break to spotlight current events at the Center for Free…

Breaking It Down: The Sixth of the Ten Commandments of Business Acquisitions Our Ten Commandments of Business Acquisitions has been so popular that we have decided to break it down. To briefly discuss each of the Ten Commandments, and its import and impact. The Sixth commandment: “Don’t Openly Criticize Your Acquisition Target” Many prospective buyers…

Breaking It Down: The Second of the Ten Commandments of Business Acquisitions Our Ten Commandments of Business Acquisitions has been so popular that we have decided to break it down. To briefly discuss each of the Ten Commandments and its import and impact. The second commandment: “Play ball in your own league.” As I explained…

Breaking It Down: The First of the Ten Commandments of Business Acquisitions Our Ten Commandments of Business Acquisitions has been so popular that we have decided to break it down. To briefly discuss each of the Ten Commandments and its import and impact. The first commandment: “Understand your goals for the acquisition.” Begin with the…