New businesses frequently offer their first employees equity in the company as a form of compensation. Owning a stake in the business can be a lucrative financial asset for the employee if the company’s stock value increases. Equity compensation can therefore act as an incentive for the employee to invest him- or herself personally in…
Buying an old business can bring exciting opportunities for the company or individual who is making the purchase. However, anyone who has been in business long enough can appreciate how complicated these deals can be. There is a great deal of negotiating and due diligence to conduct with respect to the target company. One particular…
Whether you are starting a new business or already doing business in Massachusetts, you’ve probably wondered about a way to brand your business so it stands out from the crowd. Sure, you can use your own name or that of your entity. But, you may have chosen that name to reflect ownership, such as using…
Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) have quickly become one of the most popular forms of business entities here in Massachusetts. Combining some of the best aspects of partnerships and corporations, LLCs allow you to craft an entity that can serve many different purposes while helping to shield your personal assets from business creditors. One of the…
Many successful business owners have at one point or another considered the notion of franchising their operation. And while franchises have the potential for substantial payoff, not all succeed. The risk-to-reward ratio simply may not be what the owner believes it is. Worse, some owners decide to franchise without knowing the legal duties that accompany…
Next to turning a profit, protecting assets is among a small business’s most important objectives. Securing the long-term success of your company depends on it, and the services of an experienced business and corporate law attorney can help. But what are your company’s assets? And how can you safeguard them? Asset protection means avoiding unnecessary…
The business world is constantly changing, and only the most adaptable companies will survive. No matter what industry you’re in, or how large or small your business is, it’s essential to be prepared for the future long before it arrives. The goal is to anticipate the changes that will inevitably come. We advise our clients…
Partnerships offer a number of different benefits to members who wish to do business together. But before you launch a partnership, it is imperative that a written agreement be established. A well-drafted partnership agreement will accomplish several important objectives such as ensuring every member understands his or her obligations to the company. One of the…
Forming a joint venture in Massachusetts allows independent businesses to combine their resources to embark upon a brand-new project of mutual interest and benefit. But as with every business arrangement, it is imperative that the parties involved reduce their working relationship to a written agreement. Creating a joint venture agreement in Massachusetts is no simple…
Non-Profit corporate governance is something many non-profit directors and officers should be aware of. Operating a non-profit entity can be a rewarding and socially beneficial endeavor. However, far too many non-profits focus on their service missions without giving enough attention to proper governance. Bad governance can easily drive an organization into chaos, detracting from its…
