Understanding the 4 Variants of Franchise Agreements
Whether you are interested in buying or selling a franchise, it’s important to understand the different flavors of franchise agreements in the state of Texas. There are four primary variants of franchise agreements. In this article, we provide an overview of the four variants of franchise agreements available in Texas. For assistance...
Trademarks vs. Patents: Which Does Your Business Need?
One of the most valuable parts of a business can be its intellectual property. This includes the intangible assets that help set your products and services apart from those of your competitors. Whether it is a catchy name, an interesting advertising slogan, the design of your product, or how your product operates,...
Exit Strategies for Austin Business Owners: Things to Consider
No matter how successful your business may be, you always need to keep in mind what will happen if you need or want to sell your business. Having an exit strategy is crucial, because circumstances can always change. You want to be prepared in case something happens that can cause you to...
The Legal Side of Franchising in Texas
When you’ve decided to start a franchise business, you may face several legal issues, beginning with applying for a franchise, negotiating a franchise agreement, and operating the franchise. An experienced Austin business attorney can guide you through the legal side of franchising in Texas to protect your interests and ensure you...
Top 10 Contract Mistakes Small Businesses Often Make
Small businesses need contracts to manage operations and relationships with customers, suppliers, contractors, and employees. However, mistakes during contract negotiations or during the contractual relationship can lead to potentially expensive legal disputes for your small business.
Common Contract Mistakes of Small BusinessesTen of the...
Navigating Patent Infringement Claims
When a patent owner believes that someone is infringing on their intellectual property, they will file a patent infringement claim in federal court. The court will decide if the product in question is similar enough to the patented product to constitute patent infringement.
What Rights Does a Patent...
Understanding Non-Compete Agreements in Texas
Many employers expect their employees to sign a non-compete agreement as a condition of employment. Are these agreements enforceable under Texas law? That depends on whether the terms of the agreement are reasonable or overly restrictive. Texas courts have shown reluctance to enforce agreements that stifle competition or make it difficult for...
Copyright vs. Trademark: Knowing Your Rights In Intellectual Property
Understanding the distinction between copyright and trademark in Texas is crucial for individuals and businesses. Copyright protects original works of authorship, such as books, music, and software, granting the creator exclusive rights to use and distribute the work. In contrast, a trademark safeguards symbols, names, and slogans used in commerce to identify...
How To Choose A Business Location
Starting a business in Texas is a venture that comes with a mixture of excitement and strategic planning. Since Texas is known for its strong economy and business-friendly climate, it offers many opportunities for entrepreneurs. However, mapping out the journey from an initial idea to a thriving business requires careful consideration of...
What Is Patent Prosecution?
Patent prosecution in Texas involves securing a patent from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) to protect an inventor's unique creation or idea. This legal process includes drafting and filing a patent application, responding to USPTO office actions, and working to overcome any rejections or objections. Given Texas's strong innovation culture,...