A service mark is an IP identifier that distinguishes the services of one business from another, functioning like a trademark but for services rather than goods. It can protect names, logos, and slogans used to market services. This article explains how service marks work, how they differ from trademarks, and registration essentials. A service mark […]
Read More
What is a trade secret?
A trade secret is confidential business information that provides a competitive advantage and is protected as long as it remains secret. Unlike patents, it requires no registration and relies on reasonable steps to maintain secrecy, such as NDAs and limited access. This article explains what qualifies as a trade secret, common examples, and how businesses […]
Read More
What is antitrust law?
Antitrust law is a set of U.S. statutes—most notably the Sherman Act (1890), Clayton Act (1914), and FTC Act (1914)—that prohibit anti-competitive conduct and monopolization. It targets practices like price-fixing, bid-rigging, and unlawful mergers that can raise prices or reduce consumer choice. This article explains the core rules, common violations, and why enforcement matters. Antitrust […]
Read More
What is a joint venture?
A joint venture is a business arrangement where two or more parties form a separate entity or contractual partnership to pursue a specific project and share profits, losses, and control. It’s commonly used to combine capital, expertise, or market access while limiting the collaboration to a defined scope and timeframe. This article explains how joint […]
Read More
What is a franchise agreement?
A franchise agreement is a legally binding contract where a franchisor grants a franchisee the right to operate under its brand and system in exchange for fees and ongoing compliance. It typically defines the relationship’s core terms—such as territory, royalties, training, marketing requirements, and quality standards—over a set term. This article explains what a franchise […]
Read More
What is a merger?
A merger is when two companies legally combine into one business, typically by one surviving corporation absorbing the other or by forming a new entity. It’s a common way to expand market share, cut costs, or acquire technology and talent, and it can be structured in several legally distinct ways. This article explains what counts […]
Read More
What is due diligence?
Due diligence is the structured investigation a buyer, investor, or lender conducts to confirm key facts, assess risks, and verify compliance before closing a transaction. It typically reviews finances, contracts, operations, and legal exposure to prevent surprises and strengthen negotiation leverage. This article explains what due diligence means, when it’s required, common types and checklists, […]
Read More
What is a buyout agreement?
A buyout agreement is a legally binding contract that sets the price and process for one owner’s shares to be purchased when they leave a business, often using a preset valuation method or formula. It helps prevent disputes and protect continuity after events like death, disability, retirement, divorce, or a voluntary exit. This article explains […]
Read More
What is piercing the corporate veil?
Piercing the corporate veil is when a court holds a company’s owners or shareholders personally liable for the company’s debts or misconduct, despite the usual liability shield. It’s typically considered in cases involving fraud, undercapitalization, commingling of funds, or failure to follow corporate formalities. This article explains what the doctrine means, the common legal factors […]
Read More
What is the duty of loyalty?
The duty of loyalty is a fiduciary obligation requiring a trusted decision-maker to act 100% in the beneficiary’s best interests, not their own. It bars conflicts of interest, self-dealing, and taking secret profits from the relationship. This article explains who owes the duty, common violations, and potential legal remedies. Understanding the Duty of Loyalty The […]
Read More
What is a shareholder agreement?
A shareholder agreement is a private contract among a company’s shareholders (and often the company) that sets the rules for ownership, voting, and share transfers. It complements the company’s articles/bylaws by clarifying rights, obligations, and what happens during disputes or major events like funding rounds or exits. This article explains what a shareholder agreement includes, […]
Read More
What is a board of directors?
A board of directors is an elected group—typically 3 to 15 members—that governs a corporation on behalf of shareholders. It hires and oversees top executives, sets strategic direction, and approves major decisions while meeting fiduciary duties. This article explains what boards do, how they’re structured, and why they matter. Understanding the Board of Directors A […]
Read More