How Can I protect my small business from litigation?
Small business owners typically focus their attention on achieving success in the marketplace without giving much thought to the possibility of being hit with a lawsuit. However, by failing to prepare for the potential of litigation, entrepreneurs jeopardize their businesses, and possibly their personal assets.
The best defense is to avoid litigation by not being negligent and exposing your business to a personal injury or other civil lawsuit. In order to minimize the risk of litigation, small business owners should start by choosing the right business organization, obtain liability insurance, and retain an attorney.
Creating a Limited Liability Corporation
By creating a Limited Liability Corporation, a small business owner can separate his or her personal assets from the business. In this arrangement, the business exists on its own and is responsible for any legal liabilities or debts it acquires. In some cases, however, an aggrieved client or customer can pierce the corporate veil and sue the business and the owner individually. In particular, a business owner who personally guarantees a loan will be liable for the debt.
Liability Insurance
Business owners typically need to obtain an array of insurance policies, such as workers’ compensation insurance and errors and omissions coverage. However, in order to protect a small business from the financial damage of a lawsuit, it is essential to have liability insurance that provides a source of funds in the event that a successful lawsuit is brought against the business.
Hire an Attorney
In spite of all the preventive steps a business owner can take, lawsuits and business disputes are sometimes unavoidable. These may include: a breach of contract, infringement of intellectual property, trade secret theft, or various employment claims such as discrimination, harassment and wrongful termination. It is also possible that a class action will be brought by customers, or that conflicts among the owners and minority investors may arise. In order to ensure business continuity, a business owner must be prepared to handle any of these disputes.
Often it is possible to settle disputes through negotiation and avoid going to court. If negotiation is not successful, there are other methods to resolve conflicts including mediation and arbitration. In any event, the best way to minimize the potential damage that can result from litigation is to hire an attorney who specializes in commercial litigation and has knowledge of local customs and laws.