Practice Area
Commercial Litigation
Businesses need legal counsel from formation to growth, whether for practical advice or creative solutions. A good lawyer assists with business planning, organizational formation, and ongoing legal support to protect and expand the company. Contracts are essential in business, from retail transactions to service agreements, especially in today’s digital world where relationships are often formed online. A skilled lawyer can help navigate these contracts, minimize future liabilities, and support long-term business growth.
Likewise, two of business’s most valuable assets are personnel and information. Protecting those assets should be planned from the outset. Proper negotiation of employment contracts, including non-disclosure, non-compete, and non-solicitation clauses, is essential for both the employer and employee to understand the terms of the agreement and reduce costly litigation upon separation of the relationship. Necessary steps to prevent the leak of valuable or confidential information, such as customer lists, pricing, supplier lists, referral sources, and other information that provide companies with a competitive advantage, is vital to a company’s future.
Many companies have sought our advice and services to act as outside general counsel, handling or managing all legal matters, without having to hire an inside lawyer. Typical matters include drafting, negotiating, and reviewing day-to-day legal contracts such as employment contracts, leases, licensing agreements, non-disclosure agreements, and supplier and vendor agreements, as well as advise the business on potential or actual matters that arise from daily operations, including employment matters, collections, contract enforcement.
Our Skills & Experience
Business Formation
Business Maintenance
Operating and Service Agreements
Buy-Sell Agreements
Succession Planning
Contracts – Business and Employment
Trade Secrets
Employee Non-Compete and Non-Solicitation
International Parent-Subsidiary Arrangements
General Business Support
Our Experience Includes
- Negotiated consignment agreement between well-known antique weapon collector and international auction house for exclusive international auction of Japanese antiquities
- Advised Ferrari of Houston on prospective sale of Maserati dealership
- Drafted the Ferrari of Houston Ferrari Opportunity Agreement for the Ferrari 488 and right of first refusal
- Established turnkey establishment of U.S. subsidiary of foreign hydraulic firm
- Negotiated oil and gas midstream executive employment contract
- Developed business formation growth plan for local company expanding from one to three locations within one year, incorporating member buyouts, structured purchase agreements, and succession planning
- Secured asset sale of local CrossFit franchise based on structured future buyout secured by promissory note
- Advised condiment company in negotiations with national brand manager and distributor agreement
- Routinely advise foreign individuals on establishing local companies
FAQ
What should I expect during a civil litigation case?
Civil litigation generally involves several key phases: pre-litigation negotiation, filing a complaint, discovery (exchanging information), motions (requests for court orders), trial preparation, and possibly an appeal. Our attorneys will guide you through each stage, ensuring you understand your options and potential outcomes.
How Long Does a Civil Lawsuit Take?
The timeline for a civil lawsuit depends on the case’s complexity, the court’s schedule, and whether the case is settled before trial. Generally, it can take anywhere from several months to several years, especially if the case involves extensive discovery, motions, or appeals.
Can I Settle a Civil Case Without Going to Trial?
Yes, many civil cases are resolved without going to trial. Settlement negotiations, mediation, and alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods can help parties reach an agreement outside of court. Settling often saves time, money, and the uncertainty of a trial.
What Is Mediation, and How Does It Work in Civil Litigation?
Mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) where a neutral third-party mediator helps the parties involved in the dispute reach a settlement. The mediator does not make a decision but facilitates communication between the parties to find a mutually agreeable solution. Mediation is often quicker and less costly than going to trial.