Minerva

Running a small business comes with many responsibilities, and legal compliance is one of the most important — and often overlooked — aspects. Many entrepreneurs are so focused on sales, marketing, and operations that they neglect the legal foundation their business rests on. This can lead to serious consequences down the road, including lawsuits, penalties, or loss of credibility. First and foremost, make sure your business is properly registered and licensed. Operating without the correct permits can expose you to fines or even force you to shut down. Second, always use written contracts — for employees, clients, and suppliers. Verbal agreements are risky and often unenforceable in court. Third, understand your responsibilities as an employer. This includes wage laws, anti-discrimination regulations, and workplace safety rules. Ignorance of these obligations is not a defense in legal proceedings. Fourth, protect your intellectual property. If you have a logo, brand name, or product design, consider registering it with the appropriate authorities to prevent others from copying your work. Lastly, always have a legal advisor or attorney you trust. Having access to expert guidance before making big decisions can save you from major headaches and unexpected legal battles. Proactive legal planning is an investment in your business’s stability and future.

+ The Firm Expertise People + Insights Careers News Contact Us The Firm Expertise People Insights Careers News Contact Us Our Firm Overview Our Core Values Our Vision Our Culture Responsible Business Social Mobility Pro Bono Diversity & Inclusion United Nations Global Compact Expertise Vamos a probar People Insights Publication Our Blog Law Review Coronavirus Hub Sustainability and Climate Change Resources Careers At Minerva Legal, we value our people as our most important asset and foster a collaborative environment where bright minds innovate and deliver exceptional legal advice. We seek individuals with excellent academic backgrounds, diverse skills, and a commitment to excellence who share our values and embrace challenges. Beyond legal roles, we offer rewarding careers in areas like Business Development, Compliance, Finance, Human Resources, Paralegals, and Content Creation. Committed to continuous learning, we provide training, professional courses, and postgraduate opportunities. If you share our vision, join our dynamic team by emailing careers@mlpng.com. News Contact Us Blog Our Commitment to Excellence: Building a Culture of Collaboration and Growth at Minerva Legal Receiving a labor lawsuit can be a stressful and intimidating experience, especially if you are a business owner or manager who believes they have acted in accordance with the law. However, it is crucial to remain calm and take immediate, informed action. Ignoring the lawsuit or reacting impulsively can significantly worsen the situation, both legally and financially. The first step is to carefully review the lawsuit document. Identify who is suing you, what they are alleging, and whether the claim is related to wrongful termination, unpaid wages, discrimination, or any other labor law issue. Once you have a clear understanding of the complaint, you should consult with an experienced labor attorney immediately. A professional can guide you through the response process, ensuring that all deadlines are met and that your legal rights are protected from the outset. It’s important not to contact the employee directly or attempt to negotiate outside of legal channels. Anything you say could potentially be used against you in court. Instead, gather all relevant documents, such as contracts, emails, pay records, and any communication that can support your version of events. A strong legal strategy begins with documentation. Your attorney can also help determine whether a settlement is advisable or whether you should prepare to defend the case in court.