Running a successful business is no small feat. In addition to managing the day-to-day operations of the company, you may also be dealing with legal challenges that could put everything you’ve worked for at risk. Don’t let poor planning jeopardize the future of your company. Layton & Southard is well-equipped to handle all of your corporate and business law concerns. We’ll explain your options, give you the information you need to make informed decisions, and help ensure that your business is protected from any future legal challenges.
Drafting, Reviewing, and Negotiating Contracts
Professionally written contracts help protect your company’s interests. We can help ensure that a contract clearly outlines the terms and conditions each business partner or person involved is expected to abide by, as well as what each party is expected to achieve.
We handle a wide range of business contracts. For example:
- General business contracts, such as partnership agreements, indemnity agreements, non-disclosure agreements, and property or equipment leases
- Sales-related contracts, such as purchase orders and security agreements
- Employment contracts, including contracts for independent contractors
If needed, we can also help negotiate contract disputes or breach of contract claims.
Buying or Selling a Business
If you wish to buy or sell a business, our attorneys can ensure the transaction proceeds smoothly, gives you the most favorable terms, minimizes risk, and reduces tax liability. A sales agreement for a business should include the following:
- Description of real property (real estate and buildings) and personal property (machines, furniture, etc.) included in the purchase
- Description of the goods and services included in the purchase
- Total payment due along with the time and manner of payment
- Relevant financial arrangements, such as how the buyer will pay for the business
- How long the buyer has to inspect the building the business resides in
- Applicable warranties from the seller
- A clause allowing both parties the ability to approve changes to the agreement in writing
Succession Planning
A detailed succession plan ensures that your company is prepared to transition to new leadership when you retire or leave to pursue other opportunities. We can help you create a plan that minimizes tax liability and prepares for a smooth transition to a new management team.
Although succession planning is important for any business venture, it’s vital for a family-owned business. An astonishing two-thirds of all family-owned businesses do not survive a transfer to the second generation. A well-developed succession plan helps ensure that your heirs have the resources they need to successfully continue operating the business you created.
Workplace Safety
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) works to “assure safe and healthy working conditions for working men and women by setting and enforcing standards and by providing training, outreach, education, and assistance.” OSHA regulations apply to most private sector employers and workers, as well as some public sector employers and workers.
We can assist with issues related to OSHA compliance, inspections, and citations. This includes disputes where workers are accusing the company of discrimination or retaliation for exercising their rights under the law.
Compliance With Government Regulations
Business owners must comply with a wide range of government regulations or face stiff penalties. For example:
- The Department of Labor (DOL) enforces over 180 federal laws detailing the treatment of employees in the workplace.
- The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission requires business owners to take steps to prevent discrimination from occurring in the workplace.
- The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) regulates advertising and marketing.
- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enforces environmental standards for businesses.
- Federal antitrust laws prevent actions that can be seen as reducing competition in the marketplace.
- Consumer privacy laws regulate the collection and use of customer data.
We’ll help ensure that your business remains in full compliance with all applicable regulations.
Give Your Business a Strong Legal Foundation with Our Business Law Attorneys
Quality legal representation is an investment in the future of your business. The team at Layton & Southard serves business owners throughout Southeast Missouri and Southern Illinois from our Cape Girardeau and Perryville offices. Please contact us online or call our Cape Girardeau office directly at 573.335.3359 to schedule your initial consultation.