Legal Risk Essentials for Small Business

Join us in person at the Rural Action Centre Montague with Ron Robichaud and Cox & Palmer for this half-day session on Legal Risk Essentials. This half-day workshop is designed to help entrepreneurs and small business owners to understand and reduce legal risk in the areas that matter most: business structure, financial practices, and HR obligations.

Overview:

Accounting & Financial Risk Management

• Business Structure Basics — pros/cons of sole proprietorship, partnership, and incorporation
• Tax & Liability Implications — how structure affects personal risk, reporting, and obligations
• Payment Terms — setting clear terms, deposits, late fees, and written agreements
• Collecting Outstanding Payments — step‑by‑step process, documentation, and when to escalate
• Key takeaway: How financial systems and structure choices directly reduce legal exposure

Legal Considerations for Small Business

• Legal Process 101 — what happens if a dispute arises, and how to prepare
• Contracts & Agreements — essential clauses, enforceability, and common pitfalls
• Protecting Your Brand & IP — trademarks, copyrights, product protection, and online content
• Risk Prevention — documentation, policies, and when to seek legal advice
• Key takeaway: How to proactively protect the business before issues occur

HR, People Management & Workplace Risk

• HR Legal Obligations — employment standards, contracts, and policies
• Handling Difficult Situations — conflict, performance issues, and customer‑facing challenges
• Workplace Documentation — incident reports, progressive discipline, and record‑keeping
• Reducing People‑Related Risk — boundaries, communication, and when to involve external support
• Key takeaway: How strong HR practices prevent legal and reputational harm

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the session, participants will be able to:

• Understand the legal and financial implications of their business structure
• Implement clear payment terms and follow a process for overdue accounts
• Recognize when to seek legal advice and how to prepare for it
• Protect their brand, intellectual property, and products
• Navigate HR challenges with confidence and proper documentation
• Reduce risk through proactive policies, contracts, and communication