Whether securing raw materials or manufacturing equipment, most small businesses must deal with large suppliers. These big companies cover entire regions, buying up or pushing out competitors before they compromise the market. Dealing with these near-monopolies...
Year: 2020
30 years of the Americans with Disabilities Act and fair housing
This year we recognize the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Lawmakers passed the ADA in 1990. The law helps disabled Americans by improving access to public spaces, employment, education and buildings. What has this meant for housing...
Different business structures have different advantages
A new business can be an exciting opportunity for a Michigan or Illinois resident to establish something of their own. Many people dream of leaving their jobs to become their own bosses, but few have the resources to make the jump into entrepreneurship. When they do,...
Defining the reach of an HOA
Homeowners associations, often referred to as HOAs, are organizational units that manage the upkeep of common property in communities and regulate how individual members may use and maintain their properties. For some, HOAs take the burden of maintenance off their...
Zoning matters to municipalities
Owners of private property sometimes see zoning regulations as restrictive mandates that prevent them from using their land as they wish. While zoning plans do limit how property owners can develop or utilize their tracts and improvements, zoning is a beneficial...
Contracts should have individualized drafting
A contract is a critical legal document that a business can use for a myriad of purposes. A company may use contracts to establish agreements with vendors or other entities, and it likely uses contracts to secure employees into work roles. A well-drafted contract can...
How to limit liability in potential harassment claims
No board wants to consider that a member of their management agency or an employee of their housing association would engage in harassment or discrimination of any kind. But if a claim proceeds to litigation, it’s crucial for housing associations to understand the law...
The role of common restrictive covenants in an HOA
Homeowners associations in Michigan provide residents with a range of enjoyable amenities. They also require the observation of specific regulations to maintain a functional, comfortable and appealing community. While people have differing opinions about the purpose...
What are some clauses to consider for my business contracts?
If you have had trouble with business contracts in the past, you probably want to revise them to close loopholes people took advantage of in the past. This is a wise move. Luckily, there are many clauses you can include in a contract that might offer additional...
What are the ins and outs of noncompete agreements?
It is not unusual for businesses in Michigan and across the United States to include noncompete agreements in their employment contracts. Whether you are looking to sign a contract with a major corporation or you are responsible for creating a new hire contract, it is...