Minneapolis Franchise Attorneys & Lawyers

What is Blue Sky Law?

Blue sky law is an individual state law designed to protect investors from securities fraud. The laws vary by state, but they all ensure licensing of brokerage firms, individual stockbrokers, and their offerings. Public mergers are also required to comply with the applicable blue sky laws. 

The name is believed to come from a mention in the United States Supreme Court decision, Hall v. Geiger-Jones Co., 242 U.S. 539 (1917). This case dealt with the constitutionality of state security regulations. 

Blue sky laws developed in the years leading up to the Great Depression. This was due to the influx of fraudulent money schemes promising high returns. These included foreign country investments and oil fields. Companies offered enticing investment opportunities with very little legitimate backing in an attempt to make fast money from unsuspecting o

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A Guide on How to Check Company Name Availability

Before establishing and developing your business, it is wise to check if your company name is available. Being forced to change your company name after you’ve already established a customer base can cause confusion, plus you could face a lawsuit if your name is too similar to a business in the same industry.  

Luckily, checking the availability of a company name is a simple process.

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What Is Participating Preferred Stock?

Participating Preferred Stock is a security that gives venture capitalists a return on investment before the rest of the stock holders get their share earnings. It is often used in angel investment schemes when the investor wants a sure and quick return on their investment on top of their company share in the venture. Unlike common stock, the equity of participating preferred stock comes first.

Why Is Participating Preferred Stock Important?

This stock option is important for venture capitalists because it lowers their investment risks in startups and company expansions. It also protects them if a company goes through liquidation and cannot pay all the investors. Those holding participating preferred stock will enjoy preference and get paid even if other investors or lenders do not.

There are different types of participating preferred stock, and in some cases the company caps the guaranteed amount at

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What is a Right of First Refusal?

A right of first refusal, also called an ROFR, a first right of refusal, or a last look provision, gives a person or company the opportunity to start a business transaction before anyone else can. It could provide the first chance to buy stocks or real estate at the same price and terms as another offer. If the holder of the right of first refusal declines, the owner of the asset can sell it to whomever they want.

There's even an ROFR in many child custody agreements. It requires that one parent offer the other parent the chance to watch the kids before using a family member or outside child care.

A Right of First Offer: What is it?

A right of first offer or ROFO requires owners to tell the holder first when they plan to sell an asset. Then the holder of the ROFO has the right to make the first offer on the business, stocks, or property. The seller can accept or reject the offer, speak to other buyers,

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