If you are in the process of starting your own business or interested in starting one I suggest reading the following Entrepreneur article entitled Small-Business Myths Busted.
Business Law
Man Who Looks Like Mike Wants $832 million
Man Who Looks Like Mike Wants $832 million
Mike Downey of the Chicago Tribune reports that a man has filed a lawsuit seeking $832 million against Michael Jordan, Nike and Nike chairman Phil Knight because the man looks too much like Michael Jordan. The 51-year-old man stands 6 foot tall (Jordan is 43 and 6’6")…
Is Your Team Dysfunctional?
One of the best business books I have read recently is Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni of The Table Group. In an easy-to-read format he diagnoses symptoms of teams in trouble:
1. Absence of Trust
2. Fear of Conflict
3. Lack of Commitment
4. Avoidance of Accountability
5. Inattention to Results
My…
Attempt to Steal Coke Recipe Proves Point
Three people are facing federal charges for trying to steal Coke’s trade secret information and offering to sell it to rival Pepsi. Apparently, Pepsi immediately notified Coke about this offer, who in turn notified the FBI. One of the defendants is reportedly an administrative assistance to a Coke executive.
This proves the point of a…
Employees Pose Biggest Threat to Data Security
A recent audit by Palisade Systems of Ames, Iowa found that the biggest threat to a data breach or theft comes from employees or consultants that do not property secure the data they are entrusted with. Companies may spend millions to keep out hackers but only 2% of companies have monitoring and content filtering technology…
Basic Rules for Buying a Business
I recently read an article from AllBusiness. The article states that buying an existing business is less risky than starting a new business. The article says there is a lot to say for a proven idea and existing customers.
But watch out when buying an existing business. An existing business may not be worth…
Set Up a Corporation or LLC Before Buying an Iowa Business
When you buy a business you should consider setting up a corporation or limited liability company (LLC) to buy the business. You should avoid signing any contracts, loan agreements and leases in your personal name. In certain cases you may be required to personally guarantee the loan or other debts but it is still recommended…
30 TouchPlay Businesses Sue State of Iowa
Thirty TouchPlay businesses have sued the State of Iowa claiming the state breached its contract with the businesses when the legislature banned the TouchPlay lottery machines earlier this year. The lawsuit does not request specified damages but the businesses will be seeking millions. Earlier this year five businesses unsuccessfully fought for an injunction to stop…
Buying an Iowa Business: Due Diligence Checklist
If you are interested in buying an existing Iowa business you should take a look at this due diligence checklist provided by Kauffman eVenturing and developed by finance expert Corey Schwartz. Using a due diligence checklist can help you compile the necessary information to investigate a business and negotiate effectively.
For more information regarding the…
Sullivan & Ward Practice Highlight: Rural Electric Cooperative & Public Utility Law
For over fifty years, the Sullivan & Ward law firm has represented rural electric cooperatives and generating electric cooperatives in the state of Iowa, as well as several electric cooperatives from across the country. Our attorneys, including John Ward and Michael Joynt, have gained national recognition for their expertise in the area of rural…