Best Business Lawyers in Ann Arbor

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Reach Law Firm

Reach Law Firm

Ann Arbor, United States

Founded in 2017
23 people in their team
Reach Law FirmLegal Consultant and Polygraph Examiner. Forensic Polygraph Services, Inc. Aug 2017 - Present4 years 9 months. Livonia, Michigan. Reach...
English

United States Business Legal Questions answered by Lawyers

Browse our 1 legal question about Business in United States and the lawyer answers, or ask your own questions for free.

How do I legally protect my idea before selling or licensing it to a company?
Licensing
Business
Legal Document
Patents are most frequently used to protect inventions. With a patent, you have the right to take legal action against anyone who uses or sells your inventions without your permission. To get a patent you must have an invention that is new – not a modification – so check thoroughly before you apply for a patent.Patent is an exclusive right granted for an invention of a product or process, that provides a new way of doing something and the law that governs this right in Nigeria is the Patents and Designs Act. Under the Patent and Design Act, a combination of lines and colours or any three-dimensional form with or without colours is recognized as an industrial design and can thus be protected. There's a catch though. The catch is that such design must not have been in the public domain. Once again, this does not take into account the dynamism of the fashion industry that relies on trends and public acceptance of creative works. So there is protection, but with a limitation. Registration of a patent in Nigeria is carried out at the Trademarks, Patents and Designs Registry in Abuja. I can help you do this. Non Disclosure Agreements (NDA)Most creatives will be familiar with what an NDA is but might not realize the importance of this seemingly procedural agreement. An NDA is an agreement that protects confidential information that might pass between parties to the agreement.Apart from the fact that an NDA provides protection from disclosure of intellectual property (including trade secrets, proprietary information, and other confidential information), it also provides for more legal protections and options if another party does infringe on a patent or otherwise use protected information. Sign an NDA before sharing that business idea, model, design, beat or song.Reach me out by visiting our profile and send us a message

About Business Law in Ann Arbor, United States

Business Law in Ann Arbor, a vibrant city located in Michigan, United States, encompasses everything from startups to established corporations. Covering aspects such as business formation, contracts, employee matters, securities, intellectual property laws, and more, it conforms to federal and state laws. The Ann Arbor region is home to an array of industries, including tech, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, and retail businesses, all of which require understanding and compliance with business law to operate effectively and ethically.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Whether you're starting a new business, negotiating contracts, managing employment issues, acquiring another business, dealing with potential litigations, or seeking advice on day-to-day business operations, having a lawyer with expertise in business law can be invaluable. Proper adherence to business law can help avoid fines, lawsuits, or other legal issues that can disrupt your business operations and potentially damage your company's reputation.

Local Laws Overview

Ann Arbor's business laws are governed by Michigan's state laws, which protect both businesses and their customers. These include zoning laws that dictate where businesses can operate, labor laws that govern relationships between employers and employees, and licensing laws that ensure businesses are operating within legal bounds. It's also important to adhere to the Michigan Sales Tax Act, which mandates collecting sales tax from customers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of business entity should I form?

This depends on various factors such as the type of business, number of owners, liability aspects, and taxation. A business lawyer can provide advice to decide between LLCs, corporations, partnerships, sole proprietorships, and more.

What kind of licenses and permits do I need to start a business in Ann Arbor?

The licenses and permits you need depend on the nature of your business. These might include operational, professional, health/safety, and sign permits. A lawyer can help obtain the necessary documents.

What should be included in business contracts in Ann Arbor?

While specific terms can vary, contracts should clearly define the parties, obligations, payment terms, duration, confidentiality, dispute resolution methods, and termination conditions. Legal counsel can ensure the validity and enforceability of your contracts.

Does my business need to collect sales tax in Ann Arbor?

Yes, Ann Arbor businesses should collect sales tax on tangible goods sold. The current rate is 6% in Michigan.

How can I protect my intellectual property in Ann Arbor?

Business law provides methods such as patents, copyrights, trade secrets, and trademarks. Your lawyer can help identify and leverage the appropriate protections for your IP assets.

Additional Resources

The City of Ann Arbor has multiple resources available for businesses, including the Downtown Development Authority and the SPARK Business Accelerator. Additionally, the Michigan Small Business Development Center offers assistance. Federal resources like the U.S. Small Business Administration and the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office can also be valuable.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance in business issues, your first step should be to consult with a business lawyer in Ann Arbor. They can guide you on legal considerations specific to your business, help ensure compliance with local and state laws, and represent your interests in negotiations and disputes.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. While we strive to present accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or currentness of the content. Laws and regulations can change frequently, and interpretations of the law can vary. Therefore, you should consult with qualified legal professionals for specific advice tailored to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions you take or fail to take based on any content on this page. If you find any information to be incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will make efforts to rectify it.