Austin TX Business Law Blog

What questions should I ask a job applicant?

The Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas recently conducted its biannual business survey and the results were encouraging for local employers and employees. In response to the survey, more than half of the 350 Texas business executives questioned said that they are planning to increase employment over the next six months to one year. This is the first time that more than half of all employers indicated they would be hiring since the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas started the survey seven years ago.

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How long does it take to obtain a liquor license in Texas?

Starting your own liquor line or opening a liquor store can be a profitable endeavor. Alcohol tends to have high profit margins, but opening a liquor related business comes with some challenges. You will need to meet stringent liquor licensing requirements in the state of Texas. The process can take months and not all applicants will ultimately succeed. Our Read more . . .

What does the Defend Trade Secrets Act mean for employers?

The case of Waymo v. Uber was closely followed nationally by technology companies, attorneys, and many others.  While the case ended suddenly in a settlement, it still provided vital insight into the realm of trade secrets law under the new Defend Trade Secrets Act.  Our Read more . . .

What are my legal rights as an unhappy franchisee?

The franchisee/franchisor relationship is long term in nature and often fraught with disputes.  Your franchisor will have considerable influence over the operation of your business. While most franchise rules are intended to help your business succeed, at times you may run into a serious disagreement with your franchisor. Your exact rights in resolving a franchise dispute will depend in part on your individual franchise agreement and state law.
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Can I copyright my website?

In today’s internet driven world, your website will often be a customer or client’s first introduction to your business.  Your website is one of your business’s most valuable assets and, as such, it must be protected to the fullest extent. There are several steps you can take to protect your business website using intellectual property laws.

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How do I start up a small business?

Owning your own small business is the American dream for many.  While coming up with a dynamic concept is an important step to any startup, your idea is just the launching point for your successful business.  Our Austin, Texas business law lawyers discuss how you can grow your business from an idea to a full-fledged business.
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Is arbitration or mediation the best method for resolving my business dispute?

For business owners, disputes are inevitable.  Often, business disputes will arise between business partners or between two businesses when they disagree about the terms of a contract.  A business dispute can cause much stress and have financial implications.  When it comes to resolving your dispute, there are two main options:  arbitration or mediation.  Each dispute resolution process comes with benefits and drawbacks.
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Will the U.S. Supreme Court uphold the current patent review proceedings?

U.S. Supreme Court justices are currently divided over the issue of whether the United States Patent and Trademark Office’s patent review proceedings, known as inter partes review or IPR, are legal.
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What grants could I receive as a minority small business owner?

As a minority business owner, you may be eligible to receive a wide range of grants, which cost you nothing and need not be repaid.  Federal and private grants are designed to help minority business owners achieve success.  Sadly, a racial wage gap continues to exist in the United States. Black and Hispanic individuals continue to earn an estimated 30 percent less than their Caucasian counterparts.

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What policies should my employee handbook include?

All Texas employers should craft an employee handbook that sets out the business’ policies, expectations of employees, procedures, and benefits.  You can use your handbook as a means of reaching out to employees to instill your company vision while providing a comprehensive list of rules that can help to maintain a productive and safe workplace.  Every employee handbook will be unique, but most employee handbooks in Texas should include the following:

1. An introduction to your company:  Consider starting your employee handbook off with a brief introduction to your company and the handbook itself.
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How can the SBA help my woman-owned business succeed?

Data recently released by the Texas comptroller reveals that the number of women-owned businesses is at an all-time high in Texas.  Between the years 2007 and 2016, the number of women-owned businesses in the United States increased five times as fast as the total number of companies.  While this trend represents great news for women entrepreneurs, many female small business owners still find it tough to break into traditionally male dominated fields.

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