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

Rich Sierra
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  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
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Are you a business owner interested in knowing what to do in any legal issue that might arise in your company and line of work? Join Florida business lawyer Rich Sierra, Author of Business SOS! to hear all about the most common legal mistakes business owners make and how to avoid them. This is not a “legal show” in the traditional sense; this is a conversation with business owners on the various legal issues they face daily and how to handle each of them. Guests are business owners from the local community and professionals who provide services to businesses, and you, as the listener, can submit questions to be answered, as well. There is no “sugar coating” or in-depth analysis of cases; the show will be informative and real. Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you enjoy your shows.

  1. 2D AGO

    Ep. 119 - The Hidden Truth About Trial Costs: Why Litigation Is So Expensive

    You’ve received your Trial Order, and now the clock is ticking — deadlines, discovery, and witness prep are suddenly all due at once. Why does trial preparation take so long? Why does it cost so much?In this episode of Business SOS!, attorney Rich Sierra, President of the Florida Small Business Legal Center, breaks down what’s inside a Trial Order, the purpose behind each deadline, and why trial preparation can be one of the most time-consuming and expensive parts of litigation.Rich also dives deep into the Joint Pretrial Stipulation — the critical, court-mandated document that becomes your case’s roadmap for trial. Learn what it includes, why it’s so labor-intensive, and how missing a single deadline can jeopardize your entire case.This episode is a must-listen for business owners in litigation, entrepreneurs facing trial, and anyone who wants to understand how to work effectively with their attorney during the trial phase. How to Contact Rich Sierra📧 Email: Rich@RichSierra.com🌐 Website: FloridaSmallBusinessLegalCenter.com📱 Facebook: @FSBLEGAL📺 YouTube: @RichardSierra🐦 Twitter/X: @Rich_Sierra📸 Instagram: @FSBLEGAL

    37 min

  2. NOV 4

    Ep. 118 Don't Run Your Business without Insurance!

    Have you protected your business from the unexpected? In this episode of the Business SOS! podcast, attorney Rich Sierra breaks down the essential insurance policies every small business needs to survive lawsuits, disasters, and everyday risks. From general liability to cybersecurity coverage, Rich explains the real-world importance of each policy — and the costly mistakes business owners make when they skip them. Whether you’re a new entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, this episode will help you build a legal safety net to keep your company and assets secure.👉 In this episode, you’ll learn:The difference between general liability and professional liability coverageWhy business interruption insurance can save your company during a crisisHow workers’ compensation and EPLI prevent devastating employee lawsuitsWhy cyber liability and umbrella coverage are more important than everHow to build a custom insurance strategy for long-term business protectionDon’t wait until it’s too late — learn how to shield your business from legal and financial disaster! 📧 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

    34 min

  3. OCT 28

    Ep. 117 - How to Protect Your Business from Employee Misclassification and Unpaid Wage Claims

    In this episode, Rich Sierra, President of the Florida Small Business Legal Center, breaks down one of the most serious — and costly — mistakes business owners make: misclassifying employees and failing to pay wages properly.Rich explains how treating workers as “independent contractors” when they are actually employees can trigger IRS audits, back wage claims, and even personal liability under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and Florida law. He also provides actionable steps business owners can take to stay compliant and protect their company from lawsuits.🧩 Key Topics Covered1. Employee vs. Independent ContractorLegal definitions under the IRS control test and economic realities test.Common misclassification red flags — supervision, tools, schedules, and payment structure.Why intent doesn’t matter: how courts look at actual working relationships.2. The Cost of MisclassificationFinancial penalties, back pay, and lost tax deductions.Double exposure — both federal (IRS & DOL) and state (Florida Department of Revenue) audits.The impact on employee morale and your company’s reputation.3. Unpaid Wage ClaimsUnder FLSA, owners and managers can be personally liable for unpaid wages.Florida’s wage claim process allows recovery of attorney’s fees and double damages.The importance of accurate timekeeping and compliance with overtime rules.4. How to Stay CompliantConduct classification audits.Use written contractor agreements aligned with legal standards.Maintain separate 1099 and payroll documentation.Review exemptions and overtime eligibility regularly.Consider Employment Practices Liability Insurance (EPLI) for coverage.💬 Takeaway Quote“When in doubt — classify them as employees. It’s safer, and it protects your business from devastating financial exposure.”— Rich Sierra, Esq.🔗 Resources MentionedFair Labor Standards Act (FLSA): https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/flsaFlorida Department of Revenue: https://floridarevenue.com/📞 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 ThemAvailable now on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or ask for it at your local bookstore.

    32 min

  4. OCT 21

    Ep. 116 - The Devastating Effects of Representing Yourself in Court

    In this episode of Business SOS!, attorney Rich Sierra, President of the Florida Small Business Legal Center, exposes the harsh truth behind representing yourself in court. Many business owners think they’re saving money by skipping legal representation — but the reality is, it can cost them everything.Rich walks you through the hidden dangers of going “pro se,” from missed deadlines and procedural errors to personal liability and devastating judgments. Learn why even smart, experienced business owners lose cases they could have won — and what you can do to avoid becoming one of them.You’ll discover:Why representing yourself is riskier than you think.The procedural and evidentiary traps that destroy cases.How judges perceive self-represented litigants.The real financial and emotional costs of “saving money.”How to work effectively with an attorney and protect your business.Whether you’re in the middle of a dispute or just want to protect yourself before it happens, this episode is a must-listen for every serious business owner.📞 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 ThemAvailable on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or ask for it at your local bookstore.

    31 min

  5. OCT 14

    Ep. 115 - Franchises 102 – Understanding the Risks Before You Invest in a Franchise

    Franchises can be a great opportunity—but they can also drain your savings if you don’t know what to look for. In this episode of the Business SOS! podcast, attorney Rich Sierra continues the franchise series with the last 11 disclosures (Items 13–23) in the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD).You’ll learn:✅ How trademarks, patents, and intellectual property factor into franchise rights✅ Why Item 19 (earnings claims) is one of the most critical sections—and how to spot misleading promises✅ The importance of reviewing outlet data (turnover rates of franchisees)✅ What to watch for in franchise contracts, including personal guarantees and dispute resolution clauses✅ Smart strategies to evaluate a franchise before you invest📌 Resource: FTC Franchise Rule Compliance GuideHow 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 your local bookstore.

    33 min

  6. OCT 7

    Ep. 114 - Franchises 101 – What Every Business Owner Needs to Know

    Thinking about buying a franchise? Before you sign anything, you need to understand how franchises work and what legal risks come with them. In this episode of the Business SOS! podcast, attorney Rich Sierra breaks down the basics of franchising and the first 12 required disclosures in the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) under the FTC Franchise Rule.You’ll learn:✅ What makes a business a “franchise” under the law✅ The three elements of a franchise (trademark, control/assistance, and required payment)✅ The first 12 disclosures every franchisor must provide, including management experience, litigation history, initial fees, estimated investment, and territory rights✅ Red flags to look out for before you invest📌 Resource: FTC Franchise Rule Compliance GuideHow 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 your local bookstore.

    32 min

  7. SEP 30

    Ep. 113 - How a Business Plan Can Help You Avoid Legal Problems

    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.

    34 min

  8. SEP 23

    Ep. 112 - 5 Fatal Mistakes in Discovery (Part 1)

    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.

    32 min
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Ratings & Reviews

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About

Are you a business owner interested in knowing what to do in any legal issue that might arise in your company and line of work? Join Florida business lawyer Rich Sierra, Author of Business SOS! to hear all about the most common legal mistakes business owners make and how to avoid them. This is not a “legal show” in the traditional sense; this is a conversation with business owners on the various legal issues they face daily and how to handle each of them. Guests are business owners from the local community and professionals who provide services to businesses, and you, as the listener, can submit questions to be answered, as well. There is no “sugar coating” or in-depth analysis of cases; the show will be informative and real. Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you enjoy your shows.

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