There are many reasons to invest in a business, such as joining a new startup, or becoming part of an established and successful business poised for more growth.  Sometimes these new or established companies just need a little additional working capital to be successful.  Before committing, however, it is important to approach the opportunity with objectivity, weigh all investment considerations, and understand the risks and goals associated with the potential investment. First, assess whether your...

Consumer review based websites like Yelp have grown in popularity and power. Consumer voices are often trusted, and a bad online review can have costly consequences. However, online anonymity has led to abuse, and if someone has posted an online review about your business that is false there may be legal recourse for your injuries. Defamation is an action brought to defend reputation. It involves intentional publication of false, defamatory, and unprivileged information that has...

A Mechanics' Lien is a statutory remedy most often used by contractors and subcontractors.  Nearly anyone who contributes labor or materials to a real estate improvement project can use a mechanics lien as a mechanism to resolve issues with receiving payment.   What is a Mechanic’s Lien? Specifically, California law allows the use of a Mechanics' Lien to exact payment by placing a lien on the property.  The existence of the lien on the property inhibits the property owner’s...

Challenging a variance in California can be very difficult.  In the recent case of Eskeland v. City of Del Mar, 224 Cal. App. 4th 936 (4th Dist. 2014), a property owner purchased a home with a pre-existing non-conforming structure. His front lawn was shorter than 20 feet, violating the city's zoning ordinances. On top of that, he wanted to build a new house on the same, non-conforming footprint as the house he bought, because the...