Posts in Small Business Operation
Legal Contract Essentials for Business Coaches | What you need to make sure you’re protected!

As a business lawyer for coaches, creatives, and consultants, I've seen the potential pitfalls of making guarantees that go beyond what any coach or service provider can reasonably deliver. In this blog, I outline why it's essential to get clear on what you can and can't promise—and how doing so can set you up for a successful, legally sound coaching business.

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Legal Documents That Will Look as Good as Your Interiors! | The must-have legal requirements you need for running your interior design business.

We all know the impact of great marketing, stunning portfolios, and glowing testimonials. But there’s a powerful tool that many interior designers overlook – their legal documents. Yes, you heard that right! In this blog, I explain why your contracts, proposals, and terms and conditions can be the secret to taking your business to the next level.

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Legal Resources For Creatives | What you need to get sorted, and why!

As a lawyer who works with a wide range of creative professionals, coaches, and consultants, I frequently encounter the same legal questions and challenges from my clients. To help more business owners navigate these issues successfully, I've compiled these legal resources for creatives that will ensure you are setting up your creative business for long-term success. 

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Coaches - Check Your Contracts ASAP | Changes to laws dealing with unfair contract terms are here to stay

I am seeing more and more contracts for coaching services challenged as consumers become increasingly aware of what’s fair and what’s not, following changes to unfair contract term laws that came into play at the end of last year. Changes to legislation removed the exemptions that were previously in place for small businesses, and in this blog I’ll be unpacking why it’s so important for business owners to get on the front foot here.

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The Cost of Buying Cheap in Business

In a world where the pursuit of affordability and instant gratification often prevails, it is crucial for business owners to pause and reflect on the true value of their investments. In this blog post, we will explore the concept of buying cheap in business and the potential long-term costs that this can have, particularly in the context of legal services.

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Australian Consumer Law for Service Providers: What You Need to Know

I’ve noticed a common misconception that the Australian Consumer Law (the ACL) only applies to larger, product-based businesses - like Harvey Norman.  This couldn’t be further from the truth. The ACL applies to all businesses that sell products or services to consumers.  Different rules will apply to different businesses, depending on what the business does.

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Time to Return | Key facts for e-com return policies

Owners of e-commerce businesses need to be clear on their obligations under the Australian Consumer Law (ACL). We’re empowered, future-thinking business owners now, and we don’t rely on templates. What do I have to do if a client wants a refund? This is one of the most common questions I am asked by e-commerce business owners. So let’s get clear on what the ACL says about a business’ obligations when this happens.

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Help! | Seeking legal advice for your business when the wheels have started to fall off.

Navigating through challenging times takes time and energy and will likely cause stress. Knowing that you don’t have to go it alone is essential. Having a relationship with your small business lawyer means you can reach out and your lawyer knows you, knows your business, and will be able to dive in and understand the issue quickly, so they can provide you with advice that is designed to help you resolve any issues without incurring unnecessary costly fees.

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Sole Trader or Company? | What is the best business structure for me?

Having the right business structure is important for the operation of your business; for the future growth and direction of your business; for asset protection, and for tax reasons (we don’t talk tax though, so that’s one for you to raise with your accountant!). It’s important for small business owners to understand their options when it comes to business structures and to know what can happen in practical terms when they don't have the right business structure for their business.

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