Trade secrets are protected under state law. The misappropriation or unauthorized disclosure of trade secrets can have significant legal ramifications for both the individual disclosing the secrets and the company whose secrets are being disclosed. Care must be taken during the hiring process when a company might inadvertently give away a trade...

Record Retention Rules – How Long Do Pennsylvania Businesses Need To Retain Documents?
The appropriate time period for retaining documents belonging to Pennsylvania businesses can vary widely depending on the type of document, the applicable regulations, and the sector in which the business operates. Here are several general guidelines and specific legal requirements that businesses in Pennsylvania should consider:
Different Types...
Estate Planning for Cryptocurrency Owners
In recent years, cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum have surged in popularity, attracting investors seeking alternative assets and decentralized financial systems. However, many cryptocurrency owners overlook an essential aspect of wealth management: estate planning. It’s important to incorporate cryptocurrencies into your estate plan to ensure the smooth transfer of assets to your...

Long-Term Care Asset Protection Strategies
As individuals age, the need for long-term care becomes an increasingly pressing concern. Long-term care, whether provided at home, in assisted living facilities, or in nursing homes, can be financially burdensome, potentially depleting a lifetime of savings and assets. To protect your assets and preserve your financial security in the face of...

Data Privacy Considerations for Small Businesses
In today's digital age, data privacy is a critical concern for businesses of all sizes, including small businesses. With the increasing prevalence of cyber threats and regulations governing the collection and use of personal data, it's essential for small business owners in Pennsylvania to prioritize data privacy to protect their customers,...

Trademark Basics: What Pittsburgh Business Owners Need to Know
As a business owner in Pittsburgh, protecting your brand is essential for establishing a strong presence in the marketplace and distinguishing your products or services from competitors. One crucial aspect of brand protection is understanding trademarks and how they can safeguard your intellectual property. Understanding the basics of trademarks can help...

What Are The Best Practices Of Contract Drafting For Small Businesses?
Creating compelling and legally binding contracts is crucial for the success and protection of small businesses. Small business owners in Pennsylvania can establish strong, clear, enforceable agreements that protect all parties involved by following certain steps and ensuring proper legal review.
Best Ways To Approach Contract Drafting...
What Are The Executor’s or Estate Administrator’s Responsibilities Under The Inheritance Laws In Pennsylvania?
What happens when someone passes away in Pennsylvania without a will? And what does the appointed estate administrator need to do as part of their responsibilities? In Pennsylvania, as in other states, the interplay between inheritance laws and the role of the administrator is a crucial aspect of the probate and...

Operating Agreements – Why They Matter for Pittsburgh LLCs
Operating agreements are crucial documents for any Limited Liability Company (LLC), including those established in Pittsburgh. Essentially, they are written agreements among the LLC members (owners), setting forth guidelines for their business relationship and operational procedures. These agreements cover significant topics such as the distribution of profits and losses, management structure,...

Why It Is Important To Update Your Powers Of Attorney
Updating your Power of Attorney (POA) in Pennsylvania is an important legal step to ensure that your affairs will be handled according to your current wishes in case you cannot decide for yourself. Whether your life circumstances have changed due to marriage, divorce, a move, or simply the passage of time,...