Yesterday . . .maybe the Beatles had it right:
Most of us remember yesterday fondly. And it may well be right and exaggerated at the same time.
For some of us, yesterday/yesteryear was better. Seat belts were optional. Doctors advertised like this:
A doctor bragging that his brand, the one brand that paid him, was preferred by doctors 9-1. We also thought that a fight finished with a grand duel, with one man left standing, the quicker and more accurate, won the business dispute, aka commercial litigation.
So, how does this dribble relate to today? How do we protect our businesses without resorting to being a gunslinger? With any hope, here is a plan, or at least the beginning of one.
1. Let's make sure that we do whatever it takes to insulate ourselves from liability from third parties as much as possible. What does that mean? Setting up a company recognized by the state of Colorado as a third party. Is it a corporation, a limited liability company, or something else? Your attorney, CPA, and dog sitter will be able to advise you. One may know more than the others, so choose accordingly.
2. What insurance do you have? Do you even know? Types of insurance, including what is covered and what is not, should be considered. Limits? Yes, how much will a covered claim be worth? Types? Yes, is it a typical CGL (commercial general liability) policy, or does it include employment issues, computer issues (cyber attacks), umbrella coverage, or more?!
3. Do you have an updated employment agreement /employment manual? It should generally define obligations and duties. Remember that the FTC just banned all non-competes and its decision is in litigation.
4. Find a professional you can talk to and trust. In 25+ years of business, our firm does not charge for an initial consultation, whether it is in person or by phone.
Our goal is to protect our clients. Bottom line, call someone you can trust. A lot is going on now: insurance issues, people trying to run a scam, disgruntled employees.
Leave the choice of cigarettes, Classic Rock songs, and how to win a duel to us. We promise you will always be in the best place.
Make sure to call someone to figure out a plan. And don’t forget, you SHOULD NOT BE PAYING FOR A CONSULTATION MEETING TO HELP YOU DEVELOP A PLAN!