PLDO Law Blog
Why LLC Operating Agreements Protect You and Your Business
Forming a limited liability company, or “LLC,” does not require an attorney. Articles of organization are filed with the Secretary of State and the LLC is then created; no attorney necessary. However, while registration with the Secretary of State is all that is...
U.S. Supreme Court Opens the Door to “Generic-dot-Com” Trademarks
Booking.com, an on-line travel agency that books hotel reservations and provides other services to customers, filed an application with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (the “USPTO”) to register the trademark “Booking.com.” The application was rejected based on...
Comparing Start-Up Valuation Methods
In our Business Law practice, we routinely deal with entrepreneurs and investors who are trying to structure an investment opportunity on the basis of the company’s value before the outside investment is closed. This challenge exists whether the investment will be...
Due Diligence Considerations for Entrepreneurs and Investors
Representing clients seeking to invest in a venture or finance a new business opportunity is a challenging experience for the lawyer as it routinely involves outlining the steps and various issues that are involved in the process of either type of transaction. The...
Rhode Island Supreme Court Dismisses Tenant Appeal
In a recent Rhode Island Supreme Court decision, the Court summarily dismissed a residential tenant’s appeal due to the tenant’s failure to continue to pay rent during the pendency of the appeal. This requirement, which is set forth in section 34-18-52 of the Rhode...
Why Trusts Are The Favored Option For Your Four-Legged Friends
Pets are as loved as any other member of a family these days. Although our pets can’t inherit money, you can protect them if they outlive you. There are two main considerations when planning for your pets in the event of your death or incapacity: placement and...
Three “Must Have” Estate Plan Documents Every Parent Needs For Their College Student
When preparing to send your child off to college, there are many things parents need to consider. One item that is likely not on the to-do list is having an estate plan for your college student. Typically, young adults heading off to college are 18 years old and...
End-Of-Year Tax Planning Tips And What You Should Know For 2020
As we approach the end of 2019, taxpayers need to be mindful to position themselves to minimize their state and federal income tax liability, which is due by April 15 of 2020.This is accomplished by accelerating deductions and deferring income. To accelerate...
General Assembly Eliminates “Open and Obvious” As Complete Defense To Personal Injury Claims
In legislation approved by the Governor on July 15, 2019, the General Assembly amended section 9-20-4 of the General Laws (the Comparative Negligence statute) such that the open and obvious defense to personal injury claims can no longer act as a complete bar to...
