Perspectives

In honor of Small Business Month, WFJ is highlighting the legal guidance that helps small businesses thrive by sitting down with employment and labor law attorney, Bridget Finn. Known for her collaborative, solutions-oriented style, Bridget works closely with small business owners to help them navigate the complex world of employment law with clarity and confidence. In this interview, she shares her perspective on the value of early legal planning, the most common compliance missteps she sees, and practical steps business owners can take—even without an in-house HR team—to build strong, compliant workplaces.

What’s your favorite part about working with small business clients?

What I value most about working with small business clients is having the opportunity to work with leaders on a variety of issues from start to finish and offering solutions along the way.

If you could give one piece of legal advice to someone starting a new business, what would it be?

I would advise new business owners to recognize the importance of establishing policies early on, as they provide a solid foundation for how operations should be managed. Consulting with professional legal experts at the outset of a business venture will yield significant benefits in the long term as you are getting ahead of any possible legal and employment issues that might come up down the line.

What are some of the most common mistakes you see small businesses make when it comes to employment law?

A common mistake many small businesses make is failing to maintain proper records or documentation of policies, procedures, and incidents. It’s crucial to document these details so that you have a reliable reference to look to when you are busy managing the day-to-day business operations.

What’s one thing business owners often overlook in their employee handbooks or workplace policies?

One key aspect employers often overlook in their employee handbooks or policies is ensuring they are regularly updated to reflect changes in local, state and federal laws, as legal requirements are constantly evolving. The handbook should be viewed as an evolving document that should be adapted as time goes on.

How can small businesses stay compliant with employment laws without having a full in-house HR team?

Small businesses should take full advantage of the resources offered by the Compliance Center, including legal advice, policy and handbook drafting, as well as many other resources that provide summaries and updates on legal developments.

What’s one of your favorite small businesses?

One of my favorite small businesses is FRGMNT Coffee.

In part one, we explored how UCC filings protect creditors by securing interests in business property. Now let’s unpack the legal mechanics of priority, enforcement, and how real-world business events like bankruptcy or acquisition can impact your rights as a secured party.

Who Gets Paid First? Understanding Priority

In a default situation, the UCC provides a clear general rule: First to perfect, first in line. That means the creditor who files first (and correctly) will have top priority among secured parties.

However, there’s a key exception: Purchase Money Security Interests (PMSIs). If the PMSI holder properly files and notifies other creditors before the debtor takes possession of the collateral, they can jump ahead in the priority line-even if others filed earlier.

Enforcement of Security Interests

Once a debtor defaults, a creditor’s rights are triggered. Here’s how enforcement works under Article 9:

• Notice and Surrender: The creditor must notify the debtor and seek voluntary surrender of the collateral.
• No “Breach of Peace”: Repossession must be peaceful. If the debtor refuses, the creditor must pursue judicial remedies.
• Sale of Collateral: Once in possession, the creditor may sell the collateral to recoup the owed balance, in accordance with UCC requirements for commercial reasonableness.

What Happens in Bankruptcy?

If the debtor files for bankruptcy, having a perfected UCC-1 ensures secured creditor status-but that doesn’t mean full recovery is guaranteed. If the value of the collateral is depleted or prior creditors exceed the available equity, you may still end up unsecured.

Subordinations: When You’re Asked to Step Aside

Sometimes a third-party creditor (often a bank) will request a subordination agreement. This means you agree to place your security interest behind theirs, allowing them to take priority. While this may help the debtor access additional capital and keep operations running, reviewing the terms carefully and reassessing your collateral’s status is critical.

Assignments, Amendments, and Business Changes

Mergers and acquisitions complicate collateral rights. If Company A acquires Company B, UCC filings may remain enforceable-if the collateral description allows for successors and assigns. In these cases, the original filing date holds, maintaining your priority.

If your business changes names, locations, or undergoes restructuring, updating the UCC-1 through assignments or amendments is essential to avoid lapses in perfection.

Final Thoughts

For finance professionals, a strong understanding of UCC filings isn’t just a box to check-it’s a proactive step in managing credit risk. Whether you’re reviewing credit applications, extending financing, or considering subordination, a properly filed UCC-1 can protect your interests and prioritize your right to recovery.

At Wagner, Falconer & Judd, our team helps simplify the complexities of commercial lending. If your company is navigating secured transactions, we’re here to review your filings, draft enforceable agreements, and ensure your position is protected.

Ready to safeguard your assets? Contact us today. 

When you’re building an addition, remodeling a kitchen, or replacing your roof, the excitement of improving your home can make it tempting to sign a contractor’s agreement without digging into the details. But a poorly written or one-sided contract can lead to costly headaches down the road.

At WFJ, we believe in simplifying the complex-especially when it comes to protecting your investment. Here are five red flags in construction contracts that should give you pause-and how to address them before you sign.

Vague or Missing Scope of Work

If your contract doesn’t clearly spell out what work will be done, including materials, timelines, and deliverables, that’s a problem.

Why it matters: Without a detailed scope, you may end up with misunderstandings about what’s included-or not- and the little legal ground to stand on if the project goes off course.

Ask for: A written, itemized scope of work that outlines the specific tasks, materials (brands or quality if important), and project phases. Ask questions until it’s clear.

No Clear Timeline or Completion Date

Some contracts include phrases like “work will be completed as soon as possible” or don’t list a start or end date at all.

Why it matters: Without firm timelines, you may have little recourse if the project drags on for weeks-or months-longer than expected.

Ask for: A realistic but defined start date, milestones, and estimated completion date, plus what happens if delays occur (and who’s responsible).

Large Upfront Payments

If the contractor asks for a large percentage of the project cost upfront, it’s time to hit pause.

Why it matters: While some upfront payment is normal, anything more than 20-30% can put you in risk if the contractor walks away or fails to deliver.

Ask for: A reasonable deposit and a progress payment schedule tied to completed work stages. Never pay for labor or materials that haven’t been delivered.

One Sided Termination Clauses

Some agreements allow the contractor to cancel the project for almost any reason-while giving you few options to do the same.

Why it matters: If you’re locked in with no exit, you’re vulnerable if the work goes sideways or if the contractor becomes unresponsive.

Ask for: A mutual termination clause that allows either party to cancel under specific conditions, such as breach of contract, non-performance, or failure to pay.

Lack of Warranty or Gurantee Language

If the contract says nothing about workmanship gurantees or product warranties, you’re on shaky ground if problems arise after the job is done.

Why it matters: Verbal promises won’t help you in court if something breaks or fails to meet code two months after completion.

Ask for: Written warranty terms-what’s covered, how long it lasts, and what the contractor will do to fix issues.

Final Tip: Don’t Be Afraid to Negotiate.

Many homeowners assume construction contracts are non-negotiable. They’re not. A good contractor will be open to reasonable edits that protect both parties.

Before you sign, consider having a legal professional review the agreement.

Need help reviewing your contractor agreement? 

We’re here to simplify the complex. Reach out to WFJ to protect your home-and your peace of mind.

In celebration of Small Business Month, WFJ is spotlighting the legal insights that matter most to growing companies by sitting down with one of our trusted employment law attorneys, Rebecca Corcoran. With a deep understanding of the challenges small businesses face, Rebecca brings a practical, relationship-driven approach to legal guidance. From common compliance pitfalls to proactive policy planning, this interview offers timely advice for small business owners looking to protect their teams, their operations, and their futures.

What is your favorite part about working with small business clients?

My favorite part is the direct, collaborative relationships I build with small business owners. I appreciate their passion and agility, and I enjoy being their legal sounding board-whether it’s helping them interpret evolving employment laws or brainstorming practical policy updates. There’s a real impact in knowing my guidance helps foster workplaces that are no only compliant, but also fair and sustainable.

If you could give one piece of legal advice to someone starting a new business, what would it be?

Start strong by setting up foundational policies-especially around wage and hour practices, leave policies, and anti-discrimination protections. Even if you only have a few employees, clear and legally sound practices prevent problems down the line. Don’t wait until there’s an issue to call an attorney-proactive compliance is always more cost-effective than crisis management.

What are some of the most common mistakes you see small businesses make when it comes to employment law?

A common and growing issues is how businesses handle state mandated paid sick leave. Many employers try to roll it into an existing PTO policy without realizing that these laws often include strict accrual, usage, and carryover rules that differ from standard PTO. If policies aren’t updated to reflect the specific legal requirements-like tracking hours worked for accrual purposes or allowing sick time to be used for safe time or caregiving-it can lead to unintentional violations and employee complaints. It’s not enough to be gnerous with time off; compliance requires structure and documentation.

What’s one thing business owners often overlook in their employee handbooks or workplace policies?

They often fail to update policies as requirements and legal definitions evolve. Many handbooks rely on outdated boilerplate language. For example, it’s common to see protected class definitions that overlook newly recognized statuses like gender identity, genetic information, or marital status in certain jurisdictions. This omission not only undermines inclusivity but also weakens the company’s position in the event of a complaint or legal challenge. A well-drafted handbook is more than a formality-it’s a reflection of the company’s values and frontline defense against liability.

How can small businesses stay compliant with employment laws without having a full in-house HR team?

Work with an outside advisor who understands both legal compliance and business operations. I provide clients with scalable tools like policy templates, customized handbooks, and scheduled check-ins so they’re not blindsided by new laws. I also help them weigh what’s legally required versus what’s good for morale-those soft issues matter just as much when you’re building culture and retaining talent.

What’s one of your favorite small businesses?

That’s a tough one-there are so many inspiring businesses. But I really admire locally owned shops that double as community hubs. I have a special appreciation for client-focused providers like wellness clinics or local outdoor gear shops. Their missions often center around community and lifestyle, and it’s rewarding to help them grow while staying true to their values.

In the world of commercial finance, risk management is essential-and one of the most important tools available to creditors is the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC). If your organization extends credit or leases high-value equipment, understanding how to leverage the UCC can mean the difference between secured and unsecured recovery in a default situation.

What is the UCC?

The Uniform Commercial Code is a standardized set of laws governing commercial transactions in the United States. Article 9 of the UCC specifically addresses secured transactions, enabling lenders and sellers to file legal claims against the collateral that backs a loan or a line of credit.

At the heart of this process is the UCC-Financing Statement-a public filing (usually with the Secretary of State) that puts the world on notice: a creditor has a legal interest in the debtor’s property.

Types of UCC Filings

There are two primary types of UCC filings:

General (or Blanket) Filings: These cover all of a company’s assets, not just a specific item. banks often use blanket liens to secure lines of credit or loans, giving them the right to repossess a broad range of assets if a default occurs.

Specific Collateral Filings: These narrowly define the collateral-such as inventory, accounts receiveable, or equipment. This approach is commonely used by vendors or leasing companies who want to secure interest in a particular asset or class of assets.

Within specific collateral filings, a Purchase Money Security Interest (PMSI) stands out. PMSIs allow the creditor to leapfrog others in terms of priority, provided certain requirements are met, including early notification and timely filing.

Getting it Right: Filing Procedures

To perfect a security interest and maintain priority, a creditor must:

1. Obtain a signed security agreement– This could be part of a credit application, a promissory note, or a stand-alone document.
2. File a UCC with the correct information:
   • Full legal name and address of the debtor
   • Creditor’s name and address
   • Precise description of the collateral (e.g., “Debtor’s inventory…now owned or hereafter acquired…”)
3. Monitor expiration dates: UCC-1 filings are active for 5 years and require a continuation statement within 6 months of expiration.

Stay tuned for Part Two, where we’ll walk through priority disputes, enforcement in default, bankruptcy implications, and what happens when businesses merge or reorganize.

Running a small business means wearing a lot of hats—but one area that can’t be overlooked is employment law. Even unintentional missteps can lead to costly consequences. Here are a few common pitfalls—and how to avoid them:

It might seem easier to 1099 someone instead of putting them on payroll, but the IRS and Department of Labor are cracking down on misclassification. If you control when, where, and how someone works, they’re likely an employee.

✅ Tip: Review job roles carefully and use government classification tools or consult an attorney.

Even small teams need structure. Without clear policies, you’re more vulnerable to inconsistent practices—and potential legal claims.

✅ Tip: Create a simple handbook outlining expectations, time off policies, and anti-harassment rules.

Yes, most employment is at-will, but that doesn’t protect you from claims of discrimination, retaliation, or wrongful termination.

✅ Tip: Always document performance issues and follow a consistent disciplinary process.

Overtime laws still apply—even if your employee “doesn’t mind” working late. Many businesses get tripped up here.

✅ Tip: Know your state and federal wage laws and track hours accurately.

Yes, even your breakroom needs legal attention! Federal and state laws require certain postings for employees to see.

✅ Tip: Order a current labor law poster set annually or use a service that keeps it updated.

Final Thought:
You don’t have to become an employment law expert—but having the right legal partner can make all the difference. If you’re unsure about your obligations, it’s better (and often cheaper) to ask before a problem arises.

✅ Need help reviewing your policies or contracts? Reach out to our team. We’re here to help your business grow—without legal headaches.

May is Small Business Month-a time to celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit and the incredible effort that goes into building a brand from the ground up. One of the most overlooked legal tools in a small business’s toolbox? Trademarks. Whether you’re launching a new venture or growing an established one, understanding trademarks is essential for protecting your business identity and long-term success.

Here are some frequently asked questions-along with some extra insight from our team-to help small business owners make smart, informed decisions about trademark protections.

When Should I Think About Getting a Trademark?

As early as possible-ideally when choosing your business name, logo or tagline. 

Trademarks are more than just symbols or words, they’re legally protected identifiers of your brand. Conducting a clearance search before committing to a name can save you from legal battles and rebranding costs later. Early trademark planning also gives you a competitive edge by helping you secure exclusive rights before your competitors do.

WFJ Tip: Even if you’re not ready to launch, you can still start the process through an Intent-To-Use application (more on that below).

How Long Does it Take to Get a Trademark?

On average, it takes 14-15 months to receive the full registration. 

The trademark process isn’t immediate-it involves detailed examination by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), a public opposition period, and possible office actions (requests for clarification or denial). During this time, your application goes through several rounds of review.

WFJ Tip: Start early so you don’t have to delay a product launch or marketing campaign while waiting for trademark approval.

I’m Interested in Getting a Trademark-Where Do I Start?

Start with a comprehensive clearance search. 

This search checks federal and state databases-and sometimes even common law sources-to see if your desired name or logo is already in use. Skipping this step increases your risk of accidentally infringing on someone else’s trademark, which can lead to costly litigation or forced rebranding.

WFJ Tip: Let our legal team handle this for you. We know what to look for and how to advise you on risk.

Do I Have to be Offering the Product/Service Before Applying for a Trademark?

No! You can file on an Intent-to-Use basis. 

This type of application allows you to “reserve” your trademark for up to 6 months (with extensions available), giving you time to prepare for launch while securing your rights. Once your product or services hits the market, you file a “statement of use” to complete registration.

WFJ Tip: This is ideal for startups and pre-revenue businesses. It protects your branding while you finalize development or marketing plans.

Once My Trademark is Registred, What Does It Protect and For How Long?

It protects the specific goods/services listed in your application-and can last forever with proper maintenance. 

Trademarks don’t automatically cover everything your business does. They are tied to specific categories (called “classes”) of goods and services. After registration, you must file maintenance documents to keep your rights active:

• First maintenance due between 5-6 years
• Renewals required every 10 years

WFJ Tip: Ongoing protection=ongoing value. Your trademark becomes a business asset that can be licensed, sold, or used to stop copycats.

Small Business, Big Protection

Investing in trademark protection is one of the smartest moves you can make as a business owner. At Wagner, Falconer & Judd, we help simplify the trademark process so you can focus on building your business with confidence.