Increasing Your Team: How to Hire Help Without Hurting Your Business
Smart Scaling, Legal Confidence Sharon L. Tasman, Esq. Smart Scaling, Legal Confidence Sharon L. Tasman, Esq.

Increasing Your Team: How to Hire Help Without Hurting Your Business

Your business is thriving, but you've reached a point where you can't manage everything on your own anymore. It's time to bring in help. But how do you do this effectively while ensuring your business continues to flourish and you're legally protected?

This guide dives into the essential steps to take when strategically increasing your team, whether you're considering independent contractors, employees, or third-party vendors. We'll cover identifying your true needs, navigating critical worker classification rules, the power of clear written agreements, and key legal considerations for every type of team member. Proactive planning is key to sustainable growth and safeguarding your business.

Read More
Challenges Starting A Business As A Woman Over 40
From Corporate to CEO, Founder Focus, Legal Confidence Sharon L. Tasman, Esq. From Corporate to CEO, Founder Focus, Legal Confidence Sharon L. Tasman, Esq.

Challenges Starting A Business As A Woman Over 40

Starting a business is challenging, especially for women over 40. Beyond typical hurdles, you might face unique societal and personal expectations, funding disparities, and a lack of support systems. This article dives into these challenges, offering actionable resolutions to help you leverage your experience, boost confidence, and access the resources you need to build a thriving business. Discover how your age is truly an asset!

Read More
The Critical Importance of Photo, Video and Testimonial Releases in Marketing
IP Essentials, Legal Confidence Sharon L. Tasman, Esq. IP Essentials, Legal Confidence Sharon L. Tasman, Esq.

The Critical Importance of Photo, Video and Testimonial Releases in Marketing

Using photos, videos, and client testimonials can be one of the most powerful ways to market your business—but only if you have the proper permissions in place.

Photo, video, and testimonial release forms are essential tools that give your business the legal right to share someone's image or endorsement. Without them, you risk violating personal rights and opening your business up to legal challenges.

A clear, well-drafted release helps protect your brand, build trust, and ensure your marketing remains legally compliant. It also prevents misunderstandings down the road by documenting exactly how the content may be used.

If you’re using visual content or testimonials in your business, don’t skip this critical step. Download our Photo, Video, and Testimonial Release Template to secure the rights you need—quickly and confidently.

Read More
Who Benefits if a Client Services Agreement Says "The Consultant Will Assign All of the Work to the Client?"

Who Benefits if a Client Services Agreement Says "The Consultant Will Assign All of the Work to the Client?"

That seemingly simple phrase in your client services agreement – "The Consultant will assign all of the work to the Client" – could have devastating consequences for your business. The seemingly innocuous word "assign" actually means you're giving up all rights to the work you create, preventing you from ever reusing your valuable tools and intellectual property again.

Read More
Who Wins With This Phrase: "Consultant Shall Perform the Services Until the Client is Reasonably Satisfied"?
Contracts That Work, Legal Confidence Sharon L. Tasman, Esq. Contracts That Work, Legal Confidence Sharon L. Tasman, Esq.

Who Wins With This Phrase: "Consultant Shall Perform the Services Until the Client is Reasonably Satisfied"?

That seemingly harmless phrase in your client agreement – "Consultant shall perform the services until the Client is reasonably satisfied" – could be costing you dearly. Discover why these 11 words can lead to unlimited free work and who really benefits.

Read More
From the Outside In

From the Outside In

Even the most successful entrepreneurs need an outside perspective. When you’re in the weeds of daily operations, it’s hard to see blind spots, opportunities, or risks clearly. That’s why having trusted advisors, mentors, or legal guidance isn’t just helpful—it’s essential.

If you’re building a business, don’t do it alone. Our Photo, Video, and Testimonial Release Template helps you stay protected while showcasing your brand with confidence.

Read More
Do You Know Your Value?
IP Essentials, Legal Confidence, Smart Scaling Sharon L. Tasman, Esq. IP Essentials, Legal Confidence, Smart Scaling Sharon L. Tasman, Esq.

Do You Know Your Value?

As a consultant, coach, or freelancer, you're likely creating valuable intellectual property – from unique tools and processes to content and logos – without even realizing its worth. This IP, whether protected by copyright, trademark, trade secret, or patent, holds significant value for your clients. Are you recognizing this value in your pricing and taking steps to protect these crucial assets?

Read More
LLC vs Doing Business in Your Name Only? What's the Difference?
Legal Confidence, Founder Focus Sharon L. Tasman, Esq. Legal Confidence, Founder Focus Sharon L. Tasman, Esq.

LLC vs Doing Business in Your Name Only? What's the Difference?

Choosing between operating as yourself (sole proprietorship) or forming a Single-Member LLC can feel like a big decision. While your business won't literally explode if you choose "wrong," the structure you pick has significant consequences, especially when it comes to protecting your personal assets and managing administrative tasks.

Read More
Don't Wait Until It's Too Late

Don't Wait Until It's Too Late

As a consultant or freelancer, you might think the "legal stuff" begins when you sign a client agreement. But what about those crucial pitch meetings? Sharing your valuable ideas without protection can be risky. That's where NDAs come in. Having your own ready ensures your confidential information stays safe before any formal agreement.

Read More
What you don't know about the "legal stuff" can seriously hurt your business

What you don't know about the "legal stuff" can seriously hurt your business

any entrepreneurs, in the whirlwind of launching and scaling, often defer critical legal considerations. Relying on generic contract templates, neglecting intellectual property protection, and overlooking online compliance can leave your business significantly vulnerable. Our latest newsletter underscores the importance of establishing a robust legal foundation now to safeguard your future success and mitigate potential risks.

Read More