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What steps do I need to take to protect my small business from lawsuits?

Picture of Chris Battis By   ·  1 minute read
As a lawyer, I would advise that there are several steps you can take to protect your small business from lawsuits:

1. Choose the right legal structure:

Choose a legal structure such as a limited liability company (LLC) or a corporation. This will limit your personal liability and protect your personal assets from business debts and liabilities.

2. Obtain business liability insurance:

Purchase business liability insurance to protect your business assets from lawsuits filed by third parties. This insurance can cover claims of bodily injury, property damage, and other types of compensation.

3. Keep accurate and complete records:

Maintain accurate and complete records of all transactions, such as contracts, invoices, receipts, and agreements. This evidence can be crucial in defense against a lawsuit.

4. Comply with laws and regulations:

Ensure that your business complies with all laws and regulations that apply to your industry. This includes licenses, permits, certifications, and taxes.

5. Train employees:

Train your employees on how to properly handle customer complaints and inquiries and follow applicable laws and regulations. Ensure that they understand their roles and responsibilities in the business and how they can contribute to limiting the potential for lawsuit litigation.

6. Seek legal counsel:

Where there are specific issues or potential liabilities that you are uncertain about, work with a lawyer to receive professional advice and guidance that is based on the specifics of your situation. This can help you to address challenges proactively and to identify effective solutions.

It is important to note that there may be limitations or exceptions to the above-described advice. For example, there may be specific industries or legal requirements that are not addressed in the steps provided that require additional legal counsel or compliance. Furthermore, even with appropriate precautions, it is possible that your business still may face legal action. It's important to be prepared in these cases by having legal representation and documentation to support your defense.