Legal Essentials in the Small Business World

Legal Essentials in the Small Business World

Legal Essentials in the Small Business World is an introductory workshop designed to help small business owners and entrepreneurs understand the legal realities of operating in today’s business environment. This session provides a practical overview of essential legal considerations, including business formation, compliance, contracts, and intellectual property. Participants will learn how to evaluate whether they are operating legally, understand their responsibilities as business owners, and identify common legal risks that can impact growth, credibility, and long-term success.

Workshop Overview Topics:

• Understanding legal structures used in the business world (sole proprietorships, LLCs, partnerships, corporations)
• How business structure impacts liability, taxes, compliance, and scalability
• Evaluating whether your current legal structure aligns with your business activities
• Operating legally: licenses, permits, and regulatory compliance basics
• The role of written contracts and agreements in protecting your business
• Common contract types used in business operations
• Protecting business assets and intellectual property (trademarks, copyrights, branding)
• Identifying legal gaps that expose businesses to risk

 Key Learning Outcomes:

• Understand how legal structure affects risk, responsibility, and growth in the business world
• Identify whether your current business setup provides adequate legal protection
• Recognize essential compliance requirements for operating legally
• Understand the purpose and importance of contracts in everyday business activities
• Gain awareness of intellectual property protections for business assets
• Know when and why to seek professional legal guidance

Meet the Presenter:

As a licensed attorney, Marissa Weatherly has experience providing business owners with the necessary tools to develop, enhance, and protect their businesses. Marissa has experience in the corporate and public sector, giving her a well- rounded outlook on the different needs of business owners. Marissa’s skill set includes assessing legal liability, business formation, business planning, compliance, contract negotiation, drafting, and review.