Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Negotiating a Severance Agreement
When you have secure employment, you aren’t necessarily thinking about severance agreements. However, if you are terminated, it’s important to understand your potential rights and how to negotiate a severance agreement. What is a Severance Agreement? Severance agreements are legally enforceable agreements that can be drafted when someone is terminated from their employment. The… Read More »
The Differences Between C Corporations and S Corporations
You’ve decided to set your business up as a corporation, but now you find out there are C corporations and S corporations. Do you know the differences between the two so you can decide which is right for you? It’s important to point out that every company is different based on their business goals…. Read More »
Comparing Business Organization Types: Which is Right for Your Small Business?
If you’re a small business owner starting out, it may seem overwhelming to decide how you should set up your business. There is no one option that suits every person’s situation and company. Understanding the pros and cons of the most common business organization types can help you narrow your options. Also, consider retaining… Read More »
Can an Employer Fire Someone for Going to Rehab?
Making the decision to enter rehab for alcohol or drug addiction is a huge step. It can be extra stressful when you have a job and are wondering what will happen if you leave for a rehabilitation program. However, in some cases, you may lose your job anyway if you don’t go to rehab…. Read More »
Tax Deductions Small Businesses May be Missing Out on
Given that a large number of American businesses fall under the “small business” category, it’s conceivable that many businesses are preparing their federal income tax returns with their personal tax returns. Sole proprietorships claim income and losses from their business on their personal returns, as do any “pass-through” entities like S corporations, LLCs, or… Read More »
What is an S Corporation?
Choosing the right type of business organization is one of the most important decisions you’ll make professionally. It has long-lasting consequences, and paves the way for your business in a variety of ways, including tax filing, management and operations, and legal status. One of the newer and more popular business types is the S… Read More »
What to Know about Force Majeure Clauses and Contract Law
Force majeure means “superior force” and, in a legal context, it’s a specific clause added to various contracts to address potential unforeseen circumstances that would prevent someone, or a business, from fulfilling their end of a contract. It’s common in meeting contracts and IT service contracts, but it’s often misunderstood and misused. Because force… Read More »
Difference Between a Trade Name and Trademark
When you’re starting a small business in Washington D.C., you can feel overwhelmed trying to understand all the filing requirements, let alone intellectual property laws. Some small business owners mix up the terms “trade name” and “trademark,” which can make a huge difference in legal situations. What is a Trade Name? Basically, a trade… Read More »
Employment Torts Small Business Owners Need to Be Aware of
If you run a small business with just a few employees, you may not be aware there is an entire category of workplace claims that can land you, as the business owner, on the receiving end of a lawsuit. These claims are typically referred to as “employment torts.” These claims are often brought forth… Read More »
Why Use a Living Trust over a Will?
When you’re figuring out estate planning, many people automatically default to thinking about having a will prepared. However, have you thought about a living trust? Do you know the differences and why a living trust may be a better alternative to a standard will? Without either, your estate would likely pass to your spouse… Read More »
