Forum selection clauses are a critical yet often overlooked element in contracts and terms of service agreements. These provisions dictate where disputes must be litigated, offering predictability for businesses and, at times, strategic advantage. Here’s what you need to know about how they work, why companies use them, and the controversies they can raise. Defining […]
Category: Business Law
The Legal Loopholes Behind ‘0 Calorie’ Products
From sugary bread to calorie-free cooking sprays, American food labeling is riddled with loopholes that can mislead even the most health-conscious consumers. Despite efforts by the FDA to make food labels more transparent, manufacturers still find creative ways to hide added sugars and disguise caloric content. This post explores how these loopholes work, the relevant […]
Don’t Try to Negotiate These Contracts
In a world where contracts govern everything from cell phone plans to home construction, it’s natural to assume that all agreements can be negotiated. But some contracts due to their scale, nature, or legal structure are effectively non-negotiable. Understanding when negotiation is futile can save you time, money, and frustration. Here’s a look at the […]
What the Law Says About Your DIY Business Agreement
When friends or family team up on a small business idea; like flipping a house or opening a storefront, they often try to cut corners with a simple “one-pager” agreement. It seems practical: why pay a lawyer when you can write it out yourselves? Unfortunately, Texas law doesn’t take a casual approach to business arrangements. […]
Do Texas Businesses Pay State Tax? Here’s What You Need to Know
One of the most common questions new and prospective business owners ask is whether Texas imposes a state tax on business entities. The short answer is yes, but the Texas franchise tax is structured to be incredibly business friendly. In fact, most small entities owe nothing at all. However, knowing what must be filed and […]
The Hidden Trap in Your Moving Contract: What Movers Don’t Tell You
When you’re planning a big move, hiring professional movers might seem like a no-brainer. But did you know that buried in the fine print of your moving contract could be a loophole that leaves you with only pennies on the dollar for damaged or lost belongings? This loophole is not only legal, it has been […]
Why Operating Agreements Are Important in Texas
Starting a business with a friend or partner often begins with enthusiasm and trust. But as experienced Texas business attorneys, we frequently see that those good intentions can quickly unravel if there’s no clear, written understanding of how the business will be run or how it will end. That’s where a well-drafted Operating Agreement becomes […]
How Insurance Policies Really Work
Insurance might not be the most thrilling topic, but for small business owners and everyday Texans alike, it is one of the most important. Many policyholders do not fully understand what they are actually buying, and as attorneys, we often see the consequences of that misunderstanding. Whether it is your auto, home, or business policy, […]
Avoiding Ambiguity in Contracts
Contracts are the foundation of many business relationships. Yet, too often, business owners enter into agreements that lack the specificity and clarity necessary to avoid disputes. Whether you’re repeatedly using the same form contract or entering a high-value deal for the first time, having a legal review can save you substantial time, money, and frustration […]
How to Protect Your Business in Your Commercial Lease
Leasing commercial space is a major investment, but many businesses sign commercial leases without legal guidance—leaving themselves vulnerable to direct competition near their location or other unfavorable lease terms. In Texas, one powerful way to protect your storefront is by negotiating key lease clauses upfront. One of the most overlooked but essential clauses? The exclusivity […]