Business Law

When many people hear the word “succession,” they immediately think of the popular television show about a wealthy family battling for control of a business empire. While the drama makes for entertaining television, real-life business succession involves far more...

Significant life events can create sudden uncertainty for closely held businesses. When a partner experiences a divorce, death or other major transition, the value of the business often becomes a central question. A current and defensible valuation helps protect the...

You have spent years building your business, shaping its reputation and earning the trust of clients. At some point, a decision will stand in front of you that feels both practical and personal: who should take over when you step back? Many owners expect a family...

If you co-own a business in California, you already know that things rarely stay the same. Partners retire, relationships shift, priorities change and sometimes, unexpected events force hard decisions. The question isn’t if change will happen. It’s whether your...

Many business owners think ownership transfer and management transition are the same. They often happen together, but they are not the same step. Knowing the difference helps you protect your business, your team and your plans. This matters in family-owned or...

As a business owner, you know that you will have to take risks. This risk may include simply seeking financing and taking out business loans. The future can be unpredictable, but you hope that your debt levels will be sustainable and allow the company to grow. One...

Business succession planning is often treated as a one-time exercise. In practice, it works best when it changes as your business and personal life change. In California, changes in ownership, value or control can affect succession outcomes, even when no one plans...

Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping business operations in a variety of ways, and some of these are providing business owners with attractive opportunities to improve their efficiency. While it may be tempting to jump on board as quickly as possible, the use of...

Deciding to lease a commercial property is a big investment in your company’s future (and also in your own). Before taking the plunge and signing that lease, make sure that all your ducks are indeed in line. Below are some practical tips to follow when leasing, and...

Intellectual property can be one of your most valuable assets. It represents your work, your ideas and the effort you have invested over time. The question of whether you need to secure these rights formally often comes up, and the short answer is yes.  Without proper...