Jump to Main Content

M&S Staff Attorney Archive

Double Tax Break for Energy-Efficient Homeowners

On Aug. 8, 2005, the President signed the Energy Tax Act which could provide homeowners with a $500 credit for non-business energy property (a one time credit) and the 30% of cost credit for residential energy efficient property (up to $2000). Not surprising, given their subject matter, both are fairly...     go to full article »»

Posted on September 16, 2005 |

Mandatory Arbitration Provisions: Are They Right For You?

In recent years, many businesses have started to include mandatory arbitration provisions in contracts with suppliers, customers, and consumers. While mandatory arbitration provisions may be advantageous in certain transactions, their benefits must be analyzed on a case by case basis. Arbitration is a private dispute resolution process in which a...     go to full article »»

Posted on September 16, 2005 |

FACTA Regulations Now In Effect

The Fair and Accurate Credit Transaction Act�s (FACTA) disposal provisions went into effect on June 1st. The purpose of the rules is to prevent workplace identity theft by requiring employers to properly dispose of records that contain �consumer information.� FACTA amends the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and requires �any...     go to full article »»

Posted on September 16, 2005 |

CAT Tax With Claws

If you have not heard the state of Ohio has adopted a commercial activity tax (CAT) which became effective July 1, 2005. The CAT tax is an annual privilege tax to do business in Ohio and is measured by gross receipts on business activity. The tax applies to all types...     go to full article »»

Posted on September 16, 2005 |

Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act Of 2005

On April 20, 2005, President George W. Bush signed the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005 (the “Act”). The Act is one of the most comprehensive pieces of bankruptcy legislation to be enacted in decades. With the exception of some provisions, the effective date for the new...     go to full article »»

Posted on September 16, 2005 |

Some Not Covered as Employees Under Ohio Workers’ Compensation Law Unless Specifically Requested.

Members of partnerships, owners of sole proprietorships, and officers of family farm corporations, are not covered as employees under Ohio Workers’ Compensation law unless specifically requested. Ohio’s workers’ compensation system is a mandatory participation system. Companies with one or more employees must pay into the system. Every “employee” who suffers...     go to full article »»

Posted on September 23, 2004 |

Employee Handbooks: Employer's Best Defense or Employee's Smoking Gun?

The biggest concern for most employers is the proverbial bottom line. Employers should, however, be aware of their potential for becoming embroiled in litigation that may end up costing them thousands of dollars. In addition, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is always looming on the horizon, ready to enforce...     go to full article »»

Posted on June 9, 2004 |

Contract Provisions: More Than a Handshake

As a business owner you must always remember that executing a written contract with key provisions is the most essential element in a successful business transaction. The best way to prevent a dispute in any transaction is to have the parties intentions reduced to writing. Once a dispute has arisen,...     go to full article »»

Posted on June 3, 2004 |

Does Your Business Need Trademark Protection?

With most businesses, trademarks and copyrights have become an integral part of company assets and goodwill. No longer is a mark or logo just a symbol of a company. Names and logos are now assets attaining goodwill and providing name and/or product recognition and revenue. Most companies are familiar with...     go to full article »»

Posted on June 1, 2004 |