Buyer Beware when Purchasing Property for a New Business
What surprises might await you when you purchase property for your new business?
A news story that appeared recently thanks to an anonymous whistleblower in Lubbock, reminds us all that buying a local business can be trickier than it first appears. This is why, no matter how savvy you think you are, you...
Austin Has Startup Appeal
Why is Austin attracting so many startups and entrepreneurs?
Austin continues to be a magnet for startups for a variety of reasons. The region offers a favorable cost of doing business, a well educated labor force, a good lifestyle and good weather, all of which are attracting young people to the area. Combine...
Pros and Cons of Buying a Franchise
Is purchasing a franchise a good idea for you?
For people who want to start businesses but are worried about the risk involved, franchises may sound like the answer to their prayers. Theoretically, franchises follow well-established, successful models that have already proven to be effective. The franchisee is supposed to be supplied with...
A Primer on Buy Sell Agreements
How can I ensure the continuity of my small business?
Launching a small business involves a number of critical decisions such as selecting the right business structure and putting in place agreements that clarify the relationship among the owners and/or partners such as partnership and shareholder agreements. If the business is structured as...
Non-Compete Clauses Under Scrutiny
Should my business include non-compete provisions in its employment agreement?
Many businesses rely on non-compete provisions in employment agreements to prevent job changing employees from taking proprietary information to competitors. These provisions allow trade secrets and other sensitive information to be shared with insiders while minimizing the risk that the information will be...
The Significance of Intellectual Property
Why is intellectual property important to my career?
All aspects of intellectual property (IP), including patents, copyrights, trademarks, and trade secrets have become central to moving ahead in nearly all professions. While in the past intellectual property was normally the purview of only research and development teams, inventors, and lawyers specializing in...
Medical Marijuana Business Expected to Grow in Texas
For some time it has been known that marijuana has many medicinal uses. Over the past couple of years there has been huge support for legalizing marijuana for medical use. Legislators finally listened and many states have passed laws that make it legal...
No Money for Patent That Becomes a Military Secret
When presented with a matter related to patents,it is always advisable to consult with an experienced patent attorney to clarify issues and pursue options. The world of patents can be a strange one, especially if you trespass into...
Austin Food and Beverage Start-Ups Attract Venture Capital
Start-ups based in Austin, Texas have faced some headwinds in the past year, with reports showing a decline in new venture capital investment. In the first quarter of 2016, Austin start-ups suffered a 49% decline in investment. Experts say venture capitalists lost enthusiasm because of economic unease and high valuations on untested start-ups.
The Meaning of the Defend Trade Secrets Act (DTSA) for U.S. Businesses
Now that Congress has passed the Defend Trade Secrets Act (DTSA), it will almost certainly be signed into law. This new legislation is innovative in that it will allow businesses to file claims under federal law against those who misappropriate...