Ahh the new year: this moment often translates into a desire to improve on a personal and a professional level. You probably already have big business plans for 2018, but do you know what you should be doing in order to make sure you reach your goals while still being protected? Here are 3 business resolutions you should consider taking for 2018!
Of course, please take this as legal information and not legal advice. If you have any questions regarding legal steps you should be taking for your business, send us an email at info@artylaw.ca.
Resolution #1: Get a proper service agreement
If you spent 2017 with a service agreement you found on the Internet, it is now time to get it reviewed by a lawyer or to get one professionally drafted.
The service agreement is the most basic legal tool for most entrepreneurs. It allows you, if properly written, to protect yourself on multiple fronts. Do not underestimate the importance of such a document. It can not only help you plan for unwanted situations you might get into, but also helps you set expectations between you and your client.
Resolution #2: Review your legal structure
A lot of things can change in a company: rise in revenues, new partnerships, interest from investors, etc. If you’re going through such changes, it might be time to make sure your current legal structure is indeed appropriate for your situation.
For instance, if you now have a business partner and you’re currently registered a sole proprietorship, you need to change your legal structure for one that can include two partners. If you’ve seen a significant rise in revenues, you should maybe consider incorporating your business.
Resolution #3: Register your trademarks
If you have a strong visual identity and you’d like to protect yourself within your industry, one of the best investments you can make is getting your trademarks registered.
Registration will grant you protection within Canada for 15 years (renewable), period during which you will have the monopoly over your brand. Keep in mind that registration at the REQ does not protect your trademarks.
If you were procrastinating taking care of your business’ legal aspects, the beginning of 2018 is the perfect time to get everything done! If you’d like us to assist you with your business resolutions, do not hesitate to send us an email at info@artylaw.ca.
Want to know more about what you can do for your business in 2018? Download our free ebook (in French) “10 business resolutions to take for 2018.” We even included a promo code (yes, a promo code!) to use on our services in order to help you achieve your goals during the upcoming year!
Click the link below to download it!
