Recently, AMC announced that it entered into a multi-year agreement with Fandango to sell its online tickets. The problem is that AMC is one of Movietickets.com’s founding shareholders and retains an equity stake in the online ticket giant. Movietickets.com cites that this move is a violation of its joint venture agreement with AMC.

Under the agreement, Movietickets.com allegedly has the exclusive rights to sell AMC’s movie tickets online. Movietickets.com claims that the breach of contract is a direct result of the ticket seller’s decision to deny AMC a greater control of the company.

No matter how “iron clad” you think your Dallas contracts are, contract disputes can arise at any time and for any reason. Making sure that you dot every “i” and cross every “t” is critical in order to enforce the provisions in your contracts.

However, not all breach of contract disputes can be avoided. Whether you are the plaintiff or the defendant, an experienced Dallas business attorney can help you protect your rights. Your bottom-line depends on it.

If you are facing a contract dispute, you should call one of our Dallas business  attorneys at the Ferguson Law Group at (972) 378-9111.

According to Cincinnati-based Macy’s, they have an exclusive right to sell New York-based Martha Stewart-branded products in specific categories. However, court documents cite that Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia is “essentially holding Macy’s hostage,” stating that its agreements with Macy’s expire in January 2013.

In response, Martha Stewart Living accused Macy’s of breach of contract. They have alleged that Macy’s has stocked and priced their products to favor Macy’s private label brands.

Contract disputes occur every day in the Dallas area. Making sure that your contracts are “iron clad” is paramount to the success of your business, whether it is with distributors, landlords or key employees. Contract disputes can be expensive and require a great deal of time.

No matter if you are involved in a contract dispute, need your current contracts evaluated or want to create new contracts, and experienced Dallas business attorney can help you achieve your goals.

If you are involved in a contract dispute or need help drafting a contract, you should call one of our Dallas business attorneys at the Ferguson Law Group at (972) 378-9111.

Mr. Lanci took a position at Lenovo Group Ltd last September as a consultant. However, the company last month named him head of its newly-created Europe, Middle East and Africa operation, creating the rift.

Acer cemented itself in second place in the global computer market during Mr. Lanci’s tenure. The company fell to fourth place during his final year at Acer.

“We believe Mr. Lanci has breached his non-compete measures agreed into willingly by both parties when he left Acer,” according to Acer. “We are taking legal action against him in order to protect Acer’s rights and interests.”

This is a great example of why business owners should take the time to seek legal counsel and develop effective and enforceable non-compete agreements. By not doing so, you are putting the future of your company in the hands of key employees.

A non-compete clause will prohibit key personnel from taking your trade secrets and using them against you and handing market share to your competitors. It can have a lasting impact on the viability of your business.

If you are not protected by non-compete agreements, you should speak with a Dallas business attorney immediately. Even if you have non-compete agreements in place, an experienced attorney can review those documents to make sure your future is protected.

If you are facing a dispute over a non-compete agreement or need to draft one, you should call one of our Dallas business attorneys at the Ferguson Law Group at (972) 378-9111.

Common general commercial litigation disputes
Understanding the basics of general commercial litigation can save you time and money. Three of the most common types of commercial litigation issues include:

• Contract Disputes: Contracts are an integral part of any business. However, no matter how ironclad you think your contracts are, many lead to disputes and litigation, whether over letters of credit or the sale of goods
• Shareholder Litigation: Shareholders invest in companies to make money. However, when it comes to distributions and payments, many shareholders’ agreements become subject to interpretation. Having a clear and concise agreement detailing the valuation of shares is critical
• Real Property Litigation: This can include landlord-tenant disputes, arbitration and appraisal matters as it relates to real property. These issues can be subjective, and again, be left to interpretation.

Choosing the right Dallas commercial litigation attorney
Since your financial future could be in jeopardy, it is critical to choose the right Dallas commercial litigation attorney to represent you. At the Ferguson Law Group, our attorneys have represented both sides. Whether you are the plaintiff or the defendant, we have the experience to help you resolve your litigation dispute.

If you are facing a general commercial litigation issues, you should call one of our experienced Dallas  commercial litigation attorneys at the Ferguson Law Group at (972) 378-9111.

The rights of your investors
Your investors will become co-owners of your business. It is important to understand their rights, since they may have a say in how you run your company. Keep in mind that your new investors will:

• Likely be able to participate in the voting of your board of directors
• Be entitled legally to be informed of all major business events
• Have the right to sue if they feel their rights are compromised

Return on investment (ROI)
A key factor for your investors is their return on investment. Investors are looking to make money. You may be required to give up a substantial amount of your profits in exchange for  capital. You need to make sure it is a win-win situation for all parties involved.

Ownership structure
You may not have given it much thought as to how your company is legally structured. However, once you bring on individual investors, you must consider which ownership structure will be most appropriate. There are many ownership structures to choose from, including:

• Limited Liability Company (LLC)
• Limited Partnership
• Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)
• General Partnership
• Corporation
• Sole Proprietorship

Understanding the legalities
There are many legal matters to consider when raising money from individual investors and setting up a Texas entity. The Ferguson Law Group is experienced in handling these matters and can assist you throughout the entire process.

If you are looking to raise money through individual investors, you should call one of our Dallas business attorneys at the Ferguson Law Group at (972) 378-9111.

There are many reasons to sell a business
The list of reasons why you might consider selling your business is endless. Common reasons include:

• Retirement
• A debilitating injury
• Divorce
• A change in your financial situation

Determining the value of your company
If you are like most business owners, you want to sell your business for a large profit. However, the sales price will be determined on the value of your business. Five common factors that can determine the value of your business include:

• Profit Margins: Buyers buy businesses to make money. They will take a close look at your established profits to determine if it is a good buy for them
• Revenue and Profit Growth: Revenue and profit growth is vital. The more established your pattern of growth is, the more you will be able to get for your company
• Industry Growth: The health of your company’s industry is a key indicator for a buyer to determine the potential revenue
• Management Quality: A new buyer will carefully consider your top managers and employees. Quality management can ensure a smooth and seamless transition of ownership
• Market Position: Market position, market niche and brand awareness are critical elements that many buyers look for

Getting help
Selling a business is not a simple endeavor. There are many legal matters to consider. The Ferguson Law Group is experienced in helping owners sell businesses. We can help you draft your buy-sell agreement and protect your financial interests.

If you are looking to sell a business, you should call one of our Dallas business attorneys at the Ferguson Law Group at (972) 378-9111.

Understanding Buyout Agreements
A buyout agreement specifies what is to happen when an owner of your company wants to leave or when a new owner is brought on. Besides an owner wanting to leave, there are other situations that may arise that will require a buyout agreement, such as a:

• Bankruptcy
• Divorce
• Death

Common Buyout Triggers
It is a critical mistake not to think that circumstances in your company will change over time. There are common events that can trigger and create a scenario where an owner’s interest in the company may need to be transferred or sold. Common triggers include:

• An owner’s decision to retire or resign
• An accident that leads to an owner’s death or inability to participate in the company
• An offer to acquire an owner’s interest in the company
• A foreclosure of a debt secured by an owner’s interest in the company
• A personal bankruptcy or divorce settlement where an owner’s ex-spouse is expected to receive an interest in the company

Creating a Buyout Agreement
A buyout agreement is a legally binding contract between members and should be created carefully. A lot is at stake and an experienced Dallas business attorney should draft the agreement.

At the Ferguson Law Group, we are experienced in creating buyout agreements for companies of all sizes. We understand that each situation is unique and can help you create a buyout agreement in the event an owner wants to leave.

If you are preparing for a business buyout, you should call one of our Dallas business attorneys at the Ferguson Law Group at (972) 378-9111.

A Dallas securities law attorney can help
Making sure your private placement memorandum is developed properly is paramount. At the Ferguson Law Group, we are experts and can help you every step of the way. Part of that process includes:

• An initial discussion to help us understand the goals of your offering
• A review of any existing materials that you possess. These materials may include your business plan and marketing research
• Additional detailed discussions to better understand your goals
• Additional research, if required
• A PPM draft
• Assistance in helping you understand the best way to deliver your presentation, as well as how to answer questions
• Continual support
• The facilitation of any regulatory filings

Raising capital
Raising capital is the basic goal of any PPM. However, it is critical that you understand the common rules, as they relate to Regulation D. We will help you understand the nuances of the securities laws that you will need to abide by. Three of the common rules include:

• Rule 504: Generally applies to securities sales up to $1 million
• Rule 505: Generally applies to securities sales from $1 million to $5 million
• Rule 506: Generally applies to securities sales in excess of $5 million

If you are getting ready to develop your private placement memorandum, you should call one of our Dallas securities law attorneys at the Ferguson Law Group at (972) 378-9111.

No matter the type of business you own, the chances that there is an interested buyer out there are good.  So, is it the right time for you to sell?

Do you have a compelling reason to sell?
It might be the right time to sell if you have a compelling or motivating reason. Everyone has their reasons for selling a business. You need to spend a great deal of time considering why you want out. The last thing you want is to regret this decision. Factors to think about might include:

• Investment considerations
• Financial considerations
• Strategic business considerations

Are you confident that the sale will meet your objectives?
You should also spend time outlining your objectives for selling your business. You may even want to make a list. Your objectives might include:

• Your desired profit
• Spending more time with your family
• Relieving stress
• Retirement

Are you psychologically prepared?
When considering selling your business, you must be psychologically prepared to relinquish control and ownership. You have probably grown accustomed to calling the shots. This sudden change in your lifestyle can impact your financial security and your family relationships, as well as create unexpected emotional stress.

An experienced business attorney can help you address these factors and ultimately help you with the sell of your business, if that is the route you choose.

If you are looking to sell your business, you should call one of our Dallas business attorneys at the Ferguson Law Group at (972) 378-9111 for more information.

Three factors to consider
If you are in the market to buy a Dallas business, there are three factors that you should initially consider:

• Is the business right for you and your lifestyle? When choosing the right business, it is important to determine if that business is conducive to your lifestyle and temperament. Buying the wrong business can create additional stress that you are not prepared to handle.
• Is the potential success for the business worth it? Not all businesses make as much money as business owners think. Make sure the return on your investment is worth all the work and financial sacrifices you will be making.
• Are the risks worth it? All businesses come with risks. You need to be financially prepared in the event you experience unexpected expenses or if the business doesn’t perform as expected.

Seek legal advice
There are also many legal factors to consider when buying a business. An experienced Dallas business attorney can help you assess the risks and help you with the acquisition process. Ultimately, they can help set you up for success.

If you are looking to buy a business, you should call one of our business attorneys at the Ferguson Law Group at (972) 378-9111 today.