When Should I Get a Trademark?
A big question I get asked frequently by online business owners is: “When should I get a trademark.” And my lawyerly answer is: “It depends.” Before I chat about what the answer depends on, let’s cover what a trademark is and why you may want one to begin with it. And...
Contracts you Need for a Legit Online Business
Whether you’re just starting your online business or you’ve been established for a while, getting contracts in place is a must. In broad terms, a contract is a set of promises. One person promises to do something in exchange for something else from the other person....
The GDPR Explained for U.S.-Based Businesses
You’ve probably heard the term “GDPR” thrown around a time or two in the online space. And if not, don’t worry - it will be engrained in your memory after reading this blog post. The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) went into effect in the European Union (EU)...
A Guide to the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) for Online Businesses
Effective January 1, 2020, if you are a business that collects or sells personal information from Californian residents, you have to comply with the California Consumer Privacy Act of 2018 (CCPA)*. Period. Yes, even if your business is not located in California! You...
5 Contract Basics Every Business Owner Should Know
As a small business owner, you probably think legal is about as interesting as watching paint dry. And even more overwhelming (and potentially scary). Look, I get it. Not every one is as fascinated by the legal mumbo jumbo as I am. And that’s why I have a business!...
What is Affiliate Marketing (and How to Do it Legally)
If you do business in the online space, chances are you have exposure to the concept of affiliate marketing. That email in your inbox from the business guru you adore raves about a tool or app she swears that you HAVE to implement in your business. Or the influencer...
Should I Use a Legal Template for My Online Business?
I get asked: “Should I use a legal template for my online business” at least a few times each week. And my answer is always the same - there are 3 courses of action an online business owner can take when it comes to getting legal protections in place. And your chosen...
What If My Client Doesn’t Pay?
The number one question I get asked by online freelancers and service providers is: “What if my client doesn’t pay?” Before I tackle this question, know that everything I chat about is legal education and information under U.S. law, NOT business, financial, or legal...
You Need to Know What “Independent Contractor” Means
So, you’re ready to hire some help but you’re not sure whether an independent contractor or employee is the right fit for your online business. Whether you’re looking to hire a Virtual Assistant, Copywriter, Bookkeeper, or an individual in some other niche, you need...
What You NEED to Know Before Choosing a Business Structure
Deciding how your business will be structured is one of the very first decisions you will make as an online business owner. It involves both legal and tax considerations. And that’s because your selected business structure will dictate not only how your business...
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