The answer to this question for most San Diego business owners is unfortunately yes. The last thing any business owner wants to think about is taxes and nothing could be worse than thinking about taxes four times a year. Yet putting money aside to cover a tax bill isn’t the…
Starting and running your own San Diego business is as challenging as it is rewarding. At every turn, business owners are faced with new obstacles and it often seems like every choice is a make or break decision. This is precisely why it is so important that young and growing…
Most existing San Diego businesses rely heavily on name recognition but it is surprising how many fail to protect this invaluable commodity. This is due in part to the fear most business owners have with the idea of consulting an attorney and in part to a lack of understanding of…
Trading “sweat equity” for a share in ownership of a California Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Partnership is common these days particularly because the recession is forcing people out of the main stream work force and into creative forms of income generation. Trading “sweat equity” is a practical way for…
The excitement that comes with starting your first business is most often tempered by the myriad of critical decisions you have to make. New businesses are sprouting up all over San Diego, and a common question for young entrepreneurs is “How do I pay myself?” The question is usually asked…
Organizing a workforce for your San Diego business presents formidable challenges. One of those challenges is deciding whether to hire staff as independent contractors or as regular employees. Obviously, there are fiscal advantages to hiring independent contractors. For those workers classified as “employees”, withholdings, payroll taxes, worker’s compensation, and compliance…
In California, post employment non-competition clauses are generally unenforceable. The prohibition of such clauses stems from the state’s strong public policy favoring freedom of employment and competition, and there can be little doubt that savvy California businesses are aware of this. Yet businesses in San Diego and throughout the state…
At one time or another, every San Diego business owner questions how well their business is protected from risk, liabilities and infringement. Should they incorporate, form an LLC or partnership? Does the current business entity offer the best tax advantages? Are their personal assets protected? What are their rights and…
Most people don’t think about zoning laws when they first decide to start a business out of their home, and most home-based businesses never hear from local governments about zoning violations even where they are clearly in violation of local zoning laws. The reason why is that most home-based businesses…
Avoiding Litigation – Part One sets forth three pre-conflict practices useful in reducing your business’ risk of litigation. Of course, avoiding all conflict is virtually impossible. However, conflict does not inevitably lead to litigation. In fact, more than 90% of all conflict is resolved before reaching the courthouse steps. Below…