Our website analytics tell us this is one of our most popular articles. If you think we might be able to help you or your business, email info@clark.law and mention this article for a complimentary 30-minute consultation. A popular way to monetize trademarks is to license their use to others. For example, franchises work this way by granting the franchisee the license to use the marks of the brand owner in the Read More

Our website analytics tell us this is one of our most popular articles. If you think we might be able to help you or your business, email info@clark.law and mention this article for a complimentary 30-minute consultation. There are many articles and discussions written on the material that copyright law protects, but an often overlooked topic in the discussion is what a copyright does NOT protect. The answers are Read More

Trademark attorneys are increasingly topping the list of attorneys that businesses seek to retain on a long-term or ongoing basis. One reason for this the duration of the trademark registration process. Registering a trademark takes at best nine months, and that’s only if there are no refusals or oppositions or office actions from the Trademark Office. Another perhaps more important reason is that forward-thinking Read More

I am frequently asked how much an individual’s net worth needs to be in order for them to be a good candidate for asset protection planning.  It’s impossible to answer with a specific dollar value, but if you are concerned that an adverse court judgment against you might wipe out your way of life, the answer may be an asset protection plan. What Is an Asset Protection Plan? The best place to start is by Read More

A buy-sell agreement is a contract (or sometimes part of a contract) in which a business owner makes an agreement with the other co-owner or owners as to what happens to their share of the business upon the occurrence of certain “triggering events” such as death, incapacitation, divorce, bankruptcy, or retirement. In some ways it is similar to a will in that it is a legal agreement that governs the disposition of Read More

Properly planning and executing the merger of two companies can mean the difference between success and failure of the newly structured business. Successful mergers require planning, forethought, and above all, commitment. Here are five ingredients in the recipe for a strong merger or acquisition. 1) It’s a good match. The royal houses of Europe spent an inordinate amount of time shoring up their power through Read More

It should come as no surprise that the legalized gambling industry is heavily regulated. While some of this regulation comes at the federal level, the true gatekeepers are the state or local-level gaming control boards. Note that not all boards will be called “gaming control boards.” These entities operate under many different names including gambling board, gaming commission, casino control board, and gambling Read More

How are independent contractors different from employees, and why does it matter? If you're an employer, you may be wondering whether it's best to hire a new employee or start a working relationship with an outside contractor. If you're looking for a new job or other sources of income—you'll want to compare the pros and cons of employment with those of contract work (also known as freelancing or consulting). Either Read More

A strong trademark is essential to the identification and public perception of your brand. Trademarks connect your company’s identity with the products and services you offer. While you can use a trademark without registering it, that is not recommended. The relatively low time and cost involved in clearing and registering your trademarks is well worth the legal protections you receive. Follow this step-by-step guide Read More

An existing business can present a range of opportunities for a keen-eyed entrepreneur. You have a chance to bring your unique experience to a business with existing customers, trained staff, and a fully-realized concept. Before you commit, you may be wondering whether this business is right for you—and whether you're the right person for the job. Ask your seller these key questions before making any acquisition Read More