Business SOS! Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them

A business plan isn’t just a tool to get a loan or impress investors—it’s your legal safety net. In this episode of the Business SOS! podcast, Rich Sierra, President of the Florida Small Business Legal Center, explains how a well-crafted business plan can help you avoid costly disputes and protect your business.From clarifying ownership and partnership roles to ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations, your business plan can prevent misunderstandings that often lead to lawsuits. We’ll cover how contracts, risk management strategies, and even exit planning fit into your roadmap for success.Whether you’re starting a new business or looking to strengthen an existing one, this episode will give you practical insights to stay protected and grow with confidence.How to Contact Rich Sierra:📧 Email: Rich@RichSierra.comScore's Website: https:www.score.org🌐 Website: https://www.FloridaSmallBusinessLegalCenter.com📞 Phone: 866-842-5202📱 Facebook: @FSBLEGAL📸 Instagram: @FSBLEGAL📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RichardSierra🐦 Twitter/X: @Rich_Sierra💼 Digital Business Card: https://poplme.co/hash/Qd9D1azj/1/s📘 Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or ask for it at your local bookstore.

Discovery is the battleground where lawsuits are won or lost—and yet, many business owners walk right into traps that can destroy their case. In this episode of the Business SOS! podcast, Rich Sierra breaks down the first five fatal mistakes business owners make when responding to discovery requests.You’ll learn what Requests for Production, Interrogatories, and Requests for Admissions really are, and why they matter. Then, Rich uncovers the costly errors—like missing deadlines, incomplete answers, and careless admissions—that can expose your business to devastating risks.If you’re facing a lawsuit or simply want to be prepared, this episode will give you practical steps to protect yourself and your company during discovery.How to Contact Rich Sierra:📧 Email: Rich@RichSierra.com🌐 Website: https://www.FloridaSmallBusinessLegalCenter.com📞 Phone: 866-842-5202📱 Facebook: @FSBLEGAL📸 Instagram: @FSBLEGAL📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RichardSierra🐦 Twitter/X: @Rich_Sierra💼 Digital Business Card: https://poplme.co/hash/Qd9D1azj/1/s📘 Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or ask for it at your local bookstore.

Business disputes are stressful, expensive, and time-consuming. But how do you know when to settle and when to fight? In this episode of the Business SOS! Podcast, Rich Sierra, business attorney and host, breaks down the smartest strategies to manage legal battles without destroying your company.You’ll learn:⚖️ How to evaluate risk vs. reward before suing⚖️ The hidden emotional and financial costs of litigation⚖️ How mediation and alternative dispute resolution save money⚖️ Settlement strategies to avoid prolonged court battles⚖️ When fighting is the only way to protect your businessIf you’re facing a dispute with a client, vendor, or partner, this episode will help you protect your time, money, and peace of mind.📌 Contact Rich Sierra:📧 Email: Rich@RichSierra.com🌐 Website: https://www.FloridaSmallBusinessLegalCenter.com📞 Phone: 866-842-5202📱 Facebook: @FSBLEGAL📸 Instagram: @FSBLEGAL📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RichardSierra💼 Digital Card: https://poplme.co/hash/Qd9D1azj/1/s📘 Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or at your local bookstore.

Your contracts may be putting your business — and personal assets — at risk without you even realizing it. In this episode of the Business SOS! Podcast, Rich Sierra, President of the Florida Small Business Legal Center, reveals the 10 hidden contract traps that can cost you thousands and even jeopardize your business.You’ll learn:⚠️ How non-compete and non-solicitation clauses restrict your future⚠️ Why indemnification clauses could make you liable for someone else’s mistakes⚠️ How automatic renewals and fine print can drain your cash flow⚠️ The danger of personal guarantees in commercial leases⚠️ Negotiation strategies to avoid costly disputesWhether you’re signing with vendors, partners, or landlords, this episode will help you protect your business, money, and future.📌 Contact Rich Sierra:📧 Email: Rich@RichSierra.com🌐 Website: https://www.FloridaSmallBusinessLegalCenter.com📞 Phone: 866-842-5202📱 Facebook: @FSBLEGAL📸 Instagram: @FSBLEGAL📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RichardSierra💼 Digital Card: https://poplme.co/hash/Qd9D1azj/1/s📘 Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or at your local bookstore.

Thinking about filing a lawsuit? Before you head to court, you need to understand the real challenges, risks, and strategies behind suing someone. In this episode of the Business SOS! podcast, Rich Sierra, business attorney and host, breaks down everything business owners need to know when considering legal action.You’ll learn:⚖️ The hidden costs of suing someone (and how to budget realistically)⚖️ The emotional toll lawsuits take on business owners and teams⚖️ Key steps to prepare before you file a case⚖️ Common mistakes that can sink your lawsuit before it even begins⚖️ Practical tips to survive the process—and protect your business along the wayIf you’re facing a business dispute, this survival guide will give you the clarity and tools you need to make an informed decision.📌 How to Contact Rich Sierra:📧 Email: Rich@RichSierra.com🌐 Website: https://www.FloridaSmallBusinessLegalCenter.com📱 Facebook: @FSBLEGAL📺 YouTube: @RichardSierra🐦 Twitter/X: @Rich_Sierra📸 Instagram: @FSBLEGAL💼 Digital Business Card: https://poplme.co/hash/Qd9D1azj/1/s📘 Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or ask for it at your local bookstore.

Thinking about filing a lawsuit? Before you head to court, you need to understand the real challenges, risks, and strategies behind suing someone. In this episode of the Business SOS! podcast, Rich Sierra, business attorney and host, breaks down everything business owners need to know when considering legal action.You’ll learn:⚖️ The hidden costs of suing someone (and how to budget realistically)⚖️ The emotional toll lawsuits take on business owners and teams⚖️ Key steps to prepare before you file a case⚖️ Common mistakes that can sink your lawsuit before it even begins⚖️ Practical tips to survive the process—and protect your business along the wayIf you’re facing a business dispute, this survival guide will give you the clarity and tools you need to make an informed decision.📌 How to Contact Rich Sierra:📧 Email: Rich@RichSierra.com🌐 Website: https://www.FloridaSmallBusinessLegalCenter.com📱 Facebook: @FSBLEGAL📺 YouTube: @RichardSierra🐦 Twitter/X: @Rich_Sierra📸 Instagram: @FSBLEGAL💼 Digital Business Card: https://poplme.co/hash/Qd9D1azj/1/s📘 Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or ask for it at your local bookstore.

What does it take to turn passion into a purpose-driven business? In this episode of Business SOS!, Rich Sierra and co-host Sharon Sierra sit down with Andrezza Façanha and Edgar Estevez to learn how they launched and now run Andrezza Façanha BJJ Academy as a husband-and-wife team.They discuss the realities of running a family-owned martial arts school — from launching the business, defining roles as a couple, building a culture of discipline and respect, and making BJJ accessible to students of all ages and backgrounds.If you’ve ever thought about starting a business with your spouse or turning your passion into a thriving local brand — don’t miss this one.📍 Andrezza Façanha BJJ Academy📍 5659 Coral Ridge Drive, Coral Springs, FL 33076📞 (954) 910-7177🌐 https://andrezzafacanhabjj.com📬 Contact Rich Sierra:Email: Rich@RichSierra.comWebsite: https://www.FloridaSmallBusinessLegalCenter.comPhone: 866-842-5202Facebook: @FSBLEGALInstagram: @FSBLEGALYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RichardSierraTwitter/X: @Rich_SierraDigital Card: https://poplme.co/hash/Qd9D1azj/1/s📘 Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or your local bookstore.

In this episode of Business SOS!, Rich Sierra is joined by special co-host Sharon Sierra — a third-degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do and blue belt in BJJ — to interview Andrezza Façanha and Edgar Estevez, founders of Andrezza Façanha BJJ Academy.They share how their academy is empowering students through women’s self-defense programs, inclusive training, wellness, and community outreach. From nervous first-timers to seasoned martial artists, this episode proves Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is for everyone.Whether you're a business owner, parent, or aspiring martial artist — you’ll be inspired by how Andrezza and Edgar use their business to build stronger minds and bodies.📍 Andrezza Façanha BJJ Academy📍 5659 Coral Ridge Drive, Coral Springs, FL 33076📞 (954) 910-7177🌐 https://andrezzafacanhabjj.com📬 Contact Rich Sierra:Email: Rich@RichSierra.comWebsite: https://www.FloridaSmallBusinessLegalCenter.comFacebook: @FSBLEGALInstagram: @FSBLEGALYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RichardSierraTwitter/X: @Rich_SierraDigital Card: https://poplme.co/hash/Qd9D1azj/1/s📘 Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or your local bookstore.

Thinking of buying a business? Don’t do anything until you hear this! In this essential episode of Business SOS!, attorney Rich Sierra reveals five fatal mistakes that could turn your dream purchase into a financial nightmare.From failing to conduct proper due diligence to buying the wrong structure, skipping legal protections, and ignoring lease or licensing issues—these are the costly errors that ruin deals and drain bank accounts.If you're considering acquiring a business, this episode is a must-listen. Learn how to spot red flags and structure the deal the smart way. How to Contact Rich Sierra:📧 Email: Rich@RichSierra.com🌐 Website: FloridaSmallBusinessLegalCenter.com📱 Facebook: @FSBLEGAL📺 YouTube: @RichardSierra🐦 Twitter/X: @Rich_Sierra📸 Instagram: @FSBLEGAL💼 Digital Business Card: https://poplme.co/hash/Qd9D1azj/1/s📘 Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or ask for it at your local bookstore.

Are you unknowingly putting your business—and personal assets—at risk? In this eye-opening episode of Business SOS!, attorney Rich Sierra breaks down five shocking legal mistakes that can cripple or even destroy your business. From failing to maintain proper legal structure to ignoring wage laws and using poorly written contracts, these are the landmines every business owner needs to avoid.Learn how to protect yourself from piercing the corporate veil, employee misclassification, insurance failures, and more. If you're a small business owner, this episode could save your company from disaster.🎧 Tune in and protect what you’ve built.How to Contact Rich Sierra:📧 Email: Rich@RichSierra.com🌐 Website: FloridaSmallBusinessLegalCenter.com📱 Facebook: @FSBLEGAL📺 YouTube: @RichardSierra🐦 Twitter/X: @Rich_Sierra📸 Instagram: @FSBLEGAL💼 Digital Business Card: https://poplme.co/hash/Qd9D1azj/1/s📘 Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or ask for it at your local bookstore.

In Part 2 of this two-part series, Business SOS! host and attorney Rich Sierra continues breaking down the most common mistakes entrepreneurs make when forming partnerships.This episode dives into the final five mistakes, including failing to create an exit strategy, ignoring tax consequences, and not planning for potential partner disputes. Rich also shares insights on liability exposure, intellectual property rights, and how to proactively avoid internal conflict. If you're entering into or currently in a business partnership, these practical tips are essential to safeguard your business's future.Make smarter decisions, avoid legal drama, and strengthen your business relationships with the knowledge from this episode.🔔 Be sure to follow the podcast and check out Part 1 if you haven’t already!How to Contact Rich Sierra:📧 Email: Rich@RichSierra.com🌐 Website: FloridaSmallBusinessLegalCenter.com📱 Facebook: @FSBLEGAL📺 YouTube: @RichardSierra🐦 Twitter/X: @Rich_Sierra📸 Instagram: @FSBLEGAL💼 Digital Business Card: https://poplme.co/hash/Qd9D1azj/1/s📘 Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or ask for it at your local bookstore.

In this episode of Business SOS!, attorney and host Rich Sierra revisits one of the most important topics for entrepreneurs: the critical mistakes that can destroy business partnerships before they even begin.In Part 1 of this two-part series, Rich walks through the first five mistakes business owners often make when launching a partnership. From failing to have a written partnership agreement to ignoring role clarity and ownership percentages, these mistakes can lead to misunderstandings, legal disputes, and even business failure. Rich shares practical advice and real-world examples to help you build a solid foundation for a successful partnership.Whether you’re just starting out or thinking about partnering with someone, this episode will give you the knowledge to protect your business and avoid costly legal problems.🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!How to Contact Rich Sierra:📧 Email: Rich@RichSierra.com🌐 Website: FloridaSmallBusinessLegalCenter.com📱 Facebook: @FSBLEGAL📺 YouTube: @RichardSierra🐦 Twitter/X: @Rich_Sierra📸 Instagram: @FSBLEGAL💼 Digital Business Card: https://poplme.co/hash/Qd9D1azj/1/s📘 Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or ask for it at your local bookstore.

Are you prepared for what happens to your business if something happens to you? In this episode of the Business SOS! Podcast, attorney AJ Yolofsky joins Rich Sierra to discuss why estate planning is essential for business owners. Learn how to protect your business, minimize taxes, and ensure a smooth leadership transition. Rich and AJ continue the conversation on Estate Planning and the importance of preparing your business for the due diligence investigation before you sell your business. AJ shares key strategies on Wills, Trusts, and Succession Plans every entrepreneur should have in place. Don’t leave the future of your company to chance.📚 Based on Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them.🌐 More at: FloridaSmallBusinessLegalCenter.com🔗 Connect with AJ: https://www.yolofskylaw.com | Learn more at: FloridaSmallBusinessLegalCenter.com. How to Contact Rich Sierra: 1. Via Email at Rich@RichSierra.com 2. https://www.floridasmallbusinesslegalcenter.com 3. FaceBook @ FSBLEGAL 4. https://www.youtube.com/@RichardSierra 5. twitter.com/Rich_Sierra 6. Instagram: FSBLEGAL 7. Digiltal Business Card https://popl.co/card/Qd9D1azj/1/s . Also, Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them is available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or ask for it at your local bookstore..

Are you prepared for what happens to your business if something happens to you? In this episode of the Business SOS! Podcast, attorney AJ Yolofsky joins Rich Sierra to discuss why estate planning is essential for business owners. Learn how to protect your business, minimize taxes, and ensure a smooth leadership transition.AJ shares key strategies on Wills, Trusts, and Succession Plans every entrepreneur should have in place. Don’t leave the future of your company to chance.📚 Based on Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them.🌐 More at: FloridaSmallBusinessLegalCenter.com🔗 Connect with AJ: https://www.yolofskylaw.com | Learn more at: FloridaSmallBusinessLegalCenter.com. How to Contact Rich Sierra: 1. Via Email at Rich@RichSierra.com 2. https://www.floridasmallbusinesslegalcenter.com 3. FaceBook @ FSBLEGAL 4. https://www.youtube.com/@RichardSierra 5. twitter.com/Rich_Sierra 6. Instagram: FSBLEGAL 7. Digital Business Card https://popl.co/card/Qd9D1azj/1/s . Also, Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them is available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or ask for it at your local bookstore..

Using free legal templates or AI-generated contracts might seem like a smart shortcut, but the risks could end up costing you far more than you save. In this episode, Rich Sierra, Esq. explains why one-size-fits-all contracts often fail to protect your business.Learn the dangers of missing clauses, unenforceable terms, and relying on AI tools that can’t understand your specific needs. Rich also shares what every real business contract should include and how to use templates and AI safely—with proper legal oversight.💼 Essential advice for business owners who want real protection, not just paperwork.📘 Based on Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them.📞 Learn more at: FloridaSmallBusinessLegalCenter.com. How to Contact Rich Sierra: 1. Via Email at Rich@RichSierra.com 2. https://www.floridasmallbusinesslegalcenter.com 3. FaceBook @ FSBLEGAL 4. https://www.youtube.com/@RichardSierra 5. twitter.com/Rich_Sierra 6. Instagram: FSBLEGAL 7. Digiltal Business Card https://popl.co/card/Qd9D1azj/1/s . Also, Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them is available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or ask for it at your local bookstore..

Episode 98 – What to Do If Your Business Is Sued in Another StateIn this episode, Rich Sierra, Esq. explains how to respond when your Florida-based business is sued in another state. From understanding personal jurisdiction and avoiding inadvertent consent to court authority, to hiring local counsel and defending your case remotely, this episode walks you through every step. Learn how to challenge jurisdiction, manage out-of-state litigation costs, and avoid getting sued across state lines in the future through smart contract planning. If your business crosses borders—physically or digitally—this is essential listening.Based on Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them. How to Contact Rich Sierra: 1. Via Email at Rich@RichSierra.com 2. https://www.floridasmallbusinesslegalcenter.com 3. FaceBook @ FSBLEGAL 4. youtube.com/@RichardSierra 5. twitter.com/Rich_Sierra 6. Instagram: FSBLEGAL 7. Digiltal Business Card https://popl.co/card/Qd9D1azj/1/s . Also, Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them is available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or ask for it at your local bookstore..

In this episode, Rich Sierra, Esq. shares the most common and costly mistakes business owners make during litigation—and how to avoid them. Whether you’re filing a breach of contract claim or defending a lawsuit, client-side errors like missing deadlines, deleting evidence, or refusing to settle can destroy your case.   Learn how to work effectively with your attorney, stay prepared, and protect your credibility in court.  💡 Perfect for business owners involved in lawsuits or considering legal action. 📘 Based on Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them. How to Contact Rich Sierra: 1. Via Email at Rich@RichSierra.com2. https://www.floridasmallbusinesslegalcenter.com 3. FaceBook @ FSBLEGAL 4. youtube.com/@RichardSierra 5. twitter.com/Rich_Sierra 6. Instagram: FSBLEGAL 7. Digiltal Business Card https://popl.co/card/Qd9D1azj/1/s . Also, Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them is available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or ask for it at your local bookstore..

Winning a business lawsuit is a huge relief—but it’s not the end of the story. In this episode, Rich Sierra, Esq. breaks down what happens after a judge rules in your favor, whether you’re the plaintiff or the defendant. From enforcing a money judgment and collecting what you're owed to avoiding post-trial pitfalls, this episode covers the next critical steps in your legal journey. You’ll learn about liens, garnishments, appeals, and how to turn a courtroom victory into a real-world result. ✅ Topics Covered: What a judgment actually means How to collect if you’re the plaintiff What to watch out for if you’re the defendant Liens, post-trial motions, and enforcement options When to consider settlement—even after you win 🎯 A must-watch for business owners involved in litigation or preparing for trial. 📘 Based on the book Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them. How to Contact Rich Sierra: 1. Via Email at Rich@RichSierra.com 2. https://www.floridasmallbusinesslegalcenter.com 3. FaceBook @ FSBLEGAL 4. youtube.com/@RichardSierra 5. twitter.com/Rich_Sierra 6. Instagram: FSBLEGAL 7. Digiltal Business Card https://popl.co/card/Qd9D1azj/1/s . Also, Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them is available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or ask for it at your local bookstore.

In Episonde 95 of the Business SOS! Podcast, Rich discusses "How to prepare for a breach of contract trial". If you’re a business owner going to trial—whether you’re suing someone or defending your business—your preparation matters. The judge (and possibly jury) will expect clarity, documentation, and professionalism. In this episode, Rich walk's you through the key steps to help you get organized, stay calm, and show up ready.   How to Contact Rich Sierra: Via Email at Rich@RichSierra.com https://www.floridasmallbusinesslegalcenter.com  FaceBook @ FSBLEGAL youtube.com/@RichardSierra twitter.com/Rich_Sierra Instagram: FSBLEGAL Digiltal Business Card https://popl.co/card/Qd9D1azj/1/s Also, Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them is available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or ask for it at your local bookstore.

In Episode 94 of the Business SOS! podcast, Rich Sierra dedicates this special episode to the graduating class of the Chapman School of Seamanship. Drawing from his book Business SOS!, Rich shares the eight most common legal mistakes new business owners make—and how to avoid them. From signing contracts without legal review to entering partnerships without agreements, this episode is packed with practical advice for anyone launching a marine-based or small business. Whether you’re starting a charter service or opening a marine repair shop, these tips will help you protect your investment and start your venture on solid legal ground. How to Contact Rich Sierra: Via Email at Rich@RichSierra.com https://www.floridasmallbusinesslegalcenter.com/ FaceBook @ FSBLEGAL Via YouTube at  youtube.com/@RichardSierra twitter.com/Rich_Sierra Instagram: FSBLEGAL 7. Digiltal Business Card https://popl.co/card/Qd9D1azj/1/s Also, Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them is available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or ask for it at your local bookstore.