Douglass & Runger - December 2023

DON’T LET YOUR TEEN GET SCAMMED:

A GUIDE TO SAFE CONCERT TICKET PURCHASES

With top-selling music artists going on tour recently, including Beyoncé and Taylor Swift, scammers have taken advantage of younger, inexperienced ticket buyers. These online swindlers use social media like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram to offer ticket deals that are too good to be true. SAFETY TIPS EVERY BUYER NEEDS TO FOLLOW While you may know the tried-and-true signs of an illegitimate listing or scammer, your teen may not. Meanwhile, even the most seasoned concertgoers receive impressively realistic (yet fake) tickets and show up at the venue just to be turned away. For everyone to stay safe, there are some essential rules you should follow when purchasing tickets online.

If buying tickets from a resale site, ensure they are part of the National Association of Ticket Brokers (NATB), which confirms they are legitimate. Never purchase tickets through an individual on social media or Craigslist. If buying from a person, only do so from someone you know, like a friend, coworker, or relative. Don’t buy tickets with peer-to-peer payment services such as Zelle, Venmo, or CashApp. If the purchase is a scam, these platforms don’t have buyer protection like credit cards. Make sure the section and seat number really exist at the venue.

Is your teen ecstatic to purchase concert tickets for the first time? While they may be ready to hand over their savings to get front-row seats to Olivia Rodrigo or Ariana Grande, they should be well-informed on how to safely purchase tickets. With digital tickets now being the primary format for stadium events, selling counterfeit tickets is easier than ever. According to the Better Business Bureau, reports of ticket scams have spiked from 13,168 to 16,762 from 2020 to 2022 alone.

If you and your teen follow these tips, you can ensure they are safely spending their money and will actually see the show of their dreams!

Always buy tickets from official websites and double-check that the URL is correct. Some scammers create look-alike sites to fool buyers.

The Small-Business Owner’s Guide to Contracts

ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS A standard business contract typically includes elements like parties involved, the scope of work, payment terms, confidentiality clauses, and termination conditions. Every term should be explicit to prevent misinterpretation. CLARITY AND SIMPLICITY Contrary to popular belief, contracts don’t need to be full of legal jargon to be effective. In fact, simpler language is generally more effective at conveying the terms of the agreement and ensures that both parties understand their responsibilities fully. There are even ways to write 500-word contracts that are clear, concise, and legally sound. REVIEW BY LEGAL COUNSEL Always consult with legal professionals to review contracts before they are signed. Legal advice is invaluable in identifying any loopholes or ambiguities that could be problematic down the line. KEEP RECORDS Maintaining an organized system for storing contracts is essential for quick and easy reference.

Contracts are an integral part of every small business’s operations. While the excitement of starting a new venture may overshadow the legalities involved, it’s crucial to pay attention to this often complicated yet indispensable tool. Below are essential legal aspects small-business owners need to know about contracts.

Digital copies should be backed up in multiple locations to prevent accidental loss.

PURPOSE AND IMPORTANCE Contracts are the backbone of business

BREACH AND ENFORCEMENT In the unfortunate event of a contract breach, having a written document simplifies the enforcement process. Legal actions can be taken based on the terms and conditions outlined in the contract. REGULAR UPDATES Legal regulations and business climates are ever- changing. It’s essential to periodically review and update your contracts to align with current laws and conditions. If you need assistance drafting or reviewing contracts, please contact our office at 901-388-5805 to schedule a strategy session with one of our experienced business lawyers.

agreements, outlining the terms and conditions between parties, as they are legally binding documents that safeguard your rights and establish your obligations. A well-drafted contract sets the groundwork for a successful business relationship. WRITTEN VS. ORAL CONTRACTS While oral contracts can sometimes be legally valid, written contracts are strongly recommended. Written contracts provide a record that clearly outlines each party’s obligations and rights. Some types of contracts, like those involving real estate, are required by law to be in writing to be enforceable.

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