Business & Employment Law
Advising businesses, both large and small, has been at the core of Nauman Smith’s practice since the firm’s inception in 1871. For more than 150 years, we have assisted our corporate and business clients in nearly every area of law.
Corporate and Business
Our attorneys work in partnership with business clients, providing advice and representation on a broad spectrum of issues that are often complex, with critical implications for the financial health and welfare of the organization. We assist corporations, limited liability companies, closely-held corporations, and general and limited partnerships, which represent a wide range of industries including direct to consumer sales, insurance, media, medical device, manufacturing, transportation, and restaurants.
Our business practice attorneys routinely advise the owners and management of small and medium-sized businesses on general corporate matters to more select issues, including:
- Business formation and dissolution
- Real estate matters
- Federal and state trademark registrations and copyright issues
- Acquisitions and liquidations
- Tax issues
- Executive compensation
- Business succession planning
Employment Law
The area of employer-employee relations is involved and ever-evolving with new laws and court interpretations. We advise business owners and managers on employment policies and procedures and how to address specific employment issues. We also keep our clients informed of the most recent changes in laws and regulations. The intent of our efforts is to resolve matters in the best interests of our clients without litigation.
Advice and counseling in this complex realm demands a thorough understanding of a wide range of issues including:
- Americans with Disabilities Act compliance
- Sexual harassment and other employment discrimination issues
- Family and Medical Leave Act
- Hiring and firing
- Wage and hour laws
- Employment contracts
- Independent contractor relationships
- Performance evaluations and other HR matters
- Employee discipline
Sometimes, however, litigation is unavoidable, and in those instances, our attorneys are prepared to represent employers in state and federal courts and before administrative agencies, such as the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, and the Unemployment Compensation Board of Review. We have represented employers in collective bargaining negotiations, labor contract interpretation, and employee grievance matters.
Although primarily representing employers, the firm also represents individual employees on a select basis. These cases include employment contract matters, terminations of employment, and sexual harassment matters. Finally, we value opportunities to educate our clients through articles, newsletters and seminars on timely issues relevant to their diverse business needs.
Business Succession Planning
Planning for the succession of a business is never an easy topic, especially for family and other closely-held businesses. Accountants, attorneys, and business advisors are often involved to ensure successful resolution of the financial, tax, and legal issues associated with transferring the ownership of a closely-held business. Together, we guide our clients through the challenges and instill the confidence and assurance needed to successfully carry out the business succession process.
