Ways Sexual Harassment Can Impact Your Business

Sexual harassment in the workplace is a real epidemic. As this issue sweeps across the nation, it should be top of mind as a business owner. Have you ever thought how a sexual harassment case could impact your daily work life? If you aren't thinking about this, it may be time to do so. As your experienced lawyer at the Lake of the Ozarks, we know how damaging a case like this can be for your business morale. Take a look below to check out the various ways an issue like this can impact your business life.

Lower Company Morale 

If a sexual harassment incident occurs, it can put a damper on the morale around your office. Employees may feel like the work environment isn't a safe place. This can lead to distracted workers, therefore a loss of productivity. A person who experiences a sexual harassment advance may let others know about the occurrence and the un-safe feeling may spread throughout your company.

Open Your Business to Lawsuit

Prompt action is required on behalf of the business owner or supervisor if you learn of a sexual harassment situation. It's important to have a conversation with all involved parties to set the tone for action that will be taken if the harassment continues. Ensure you have an open door policy for employees to report inappropriate behavior in the workplace. If you do have an employee experience sexual harassment in the workplace, legal advice can help you work through the situation to better protect your business. 

Lose Dedicated Workers

If an employee is harassed at work, they may start to dislike their job and/or work environment. Many times harassment goes unreported, therefore the behavior does not change. This can create a hostile work environment which is damaging for employees. An employee may be more apt to leave the company if they are being sexually harassed while working. You can easily lose a hard worker if they are uncomfortable when they come to work.

Tips for Handling Sexual Harassment Claims:

• Have an open door policy for employees to report any harassment they experience.
• Provide regular training on sexual harassment and go over the punishment for such action. 
• Take swift action if a sexual harassment case is reported. 
• Set the precedent if you have a report of sexual harassment in the workplace. 

Now that you know HOW your business may be impacted by a sexual harassment claim, you're ready to make changes in your daily work life to avoid this issue. If you discover a sexual harassment case has occurred at your business, ensure you take the right legal actions in a timely manner. Contact Gibbons Law Firm to learn how you can take swift action to help protect your business. Remember, your first consultation with our Lake of the Ozarks law firm is free!

Remember, your initial consultation with Gibbons Law Firm is always free.

Your Trusted Legal Resource

Gibbons Law Firm

2820 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B4

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

(573) 348-2211

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Magic Dragon Street Meet Nationals

One of the Lake's biggest events is right around the corner. The Magic Dragon Street Meet Nationals Car Show is May 4th-6th. With an increase of visitors to the Lake of the Ozarks, there are many more cars on the roadway than normal. Whether people drive their show cars to the car show or they are trailered in, there are more motorists in the area. Spectators and participants alike are going to be driving around the Lake this weekend. There is usually an increase in the number of vehicle accidents when a big event is taking place. Use caution as you travel around the area this weekend.

If you are planning to attend the Magic Dragon Car Show, take a look below for a schedule of events.

All About the Magic Dragon Street Meet Nationals:

The Magic Dragon Car Show is a thrilling experience for all. From muscle cars to great restaurants to activities for kids, your entire family can stay entertained at this event. It's a unique car show for all makes, models, and years of cars, trucks, and motorcycles. The show brings out 1,000 cars and over 10,000 spectators. This creates an electric atmosphere for all in attendance! It's the only car show in Central Missouri that gives away a new muscle car!

Thursday, May 3

Noon - Close of Business Aces High Poker Run (Several locations throughout the lake area)
Noon - 5 PM Street Meet Participant Registration at Willmore Lodge Visitor Center

Friday, May 4

8 AM - 8 PM Street Meet Participant Registration at Willmore Lodge Visitor Center
12 PM - 5 PM 2018 Magic Dragon Street Meet Nationals Show Hours & Poker Run cards turned in

Saturday, May 5

6 AM - 6 PM Street is closed to regular traffic – Registered Show Vehicles ONLY
8 AM - 1 PM Street Meet Participant Registration at Willmore Lodge Visitor Center
8 AM - 6 PM 2018 Magic Dragon Street Meet Nationals Show Hours
10 AM - 2 PM Make-N-Take Model Event at The Firestone Alley (Two-Bit Town)
2 PM Big Foot Car Smash at The Firestone Alley
5 PM Poker Run Winner Announcement at the Main Stage
5 PM 50/50 Raffle Winner Announcement at the Main Stage
5 PM Lake Ozark Daybreak Rotary Car Giveaway at the Main Stage
5 PM - Late Night Enjoy Tunes from Cool 102.7

Sunday, May 6

7:30 AM - 8:00 AM Racers for Christ - Church Service at Luby's Plaza
8 AM - 1 PM 2018 Magic Dragon Street Meet National Show Hours
8 AM - 9 AM Judged Vehicle Parking ONLY
9 AM - 11 AM Judging - Vehicles to be judges must be in the designated area no later than 9 AM
9:30 AM Non-Judged Parking Opens
1 PM Awards at Main Stage

For more information, visit www.MagicDragonCarShow.com

Now that you know when and where all the events are taking place for the Magic Dragon Street Meet Nationals, you can make plans to attend. While you are out and about this weekend, use caution with the increase of traffic. The risk of being involved in a vehicle accident increases as the number of motorists on the roadway increases. If you find yourself in an accident, it's important to have legal representation on your side. Contact Gibbons Law Firm for experienced legal assistance. Whether you are at fault or you have been injured due to someone else's negligence, our Lake of the Ozarks lawyer is here for you. Your initial consultation with us is always free. We look forward to representing your personal injury case at the Lake of the Ozarks.


Remember, your initial consultation with Gibbons Law Firm is always free.

Your Trusted Legal Resource

Gibbons Law Firm

2820 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B4

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

(573) 348-2211

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Tips for a Business Owner's Estate Plan

You've worked hard day in and day out for your business. You've poured your heart and soul into it, as well. It's important that someone you trust is left in charge of your venture when you pass away. A plan should be established as to who will take over the business you've worked hard for. Our Lake of the Ozarks attorney can help create an estate plan for your business. Our team can help ensure your legal bases are covered when it comes to your business after you pass. Below you can find some tips to help when creating an estate plan for your business.

Estate Plan Tips for Business Owners:

TIP #1: Create a will.

A will is helpful no matter what type of business you own. This type of documentation can help you dictate exactly what you want to take place after your death. Usually, businesses with no will in place will be passed to close family members. Save your employees and family members the effort and name your successor in a will.

TIP #2: Consider a succession plan.

A succession plan can help your successor navigate their new role. A solid plan contains the name of the successor, a training plan, and how your successor will be taking control of the business. This plan is a good roadmap for whoever you choose to take over your venture. Whether you pass away, retire, or are unable to work for another reason, a succession plan can help your successor navigate their new role.

TIP #3: Think about future taxes.

Estate taxes can be a hefty burden should the original owner pass. Once a business owner passes, the tax may be due soon thereafter. As a business owner, there are ways to minimize the tax burden on your successor.

TIP #4: Purchase life insurance.

A life insurance plan can help to cover the financial burden of a loved one passing. A business owner should consider buying a life insurance policy to benefit their business, as well. A partner or your successor may even be named the beneficiary of your policy, to make the transition smooth.

TIP #5: Organize your records.

It's important that your records are easy to find. In the event of your passing, these documents should be well organized and in a convenient location. Someone will need to locate these documents in order for your wishes to be carried out. Consider keeping insurance information, your estate plan, financial information, and other information for your successor together in one place.

Potential Risks for a Business with no Estate Plan:

• Higher taxes
• Dispute between heirs
• Division of assets based on legal requirements

While it is typically unpleasant to plan and even think about the plan you will need to have in place, it's an important step in owning a business. There can be negative consequences if you do not have a plan in place. Get ahead of the situation and plan on your succession for the sake of your business and/or your family. If you don't have a plan in place, give Gibbons Law Firm a call today. Your initial consultation with our business lawyer at the Lake of the Ozarks is free!

Remember, your initial consultation with Gibbons Law Firm is always free.

Your Trusted Legal Resource

Gibbons Law Firm

2820 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B4

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

(573) 348-2211

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Top 5 Legal Tips to Help Protect Your Small Business

Your small business is important to you and your family. With any business, there are some legal risks you may face. Preparation and prevention can help to protect your small business from possible legal issues. With your business taking up most of your time, don't spend unnecessary time in the courtroom. Try to prevent potential legal issues with the right preparation for your small business. Below are some top legal tips to help protect your small business at the Lake of the Ozarks.

1) Document, Document, Document

EVERYTHING should be in writing when it comes to your business. Any activities - like hiring, firing, accounting information, and all internal discussions - should be documented in detail. This documentation can help to prove your side of a case, should you need it. It can also be helpful to keep this documentation well organized. This can save you time, should you need to locate and present your documents.

2) Equal Treatment of Employees

A number of small businesses lean on friends and family to help make their venture a success. Even though this is usually beneficial for both parties involved, it's important to keep your relationship professional. Complete all processes with friends and/or family members in the same regard you would a new employee. It's best to keep your business life professional and ensure your employees are on the same page. This can also make things easier to handle should the working relationship come to an end.

3) Present Clear Expectations

Ensure ALL of your employees and/or business partners are clear on your working relationship and all expectations required. Before you hire someone, be sure they know what the position requires and what you expect from them. Many new employees will realize the position is not for them after they have been hired. This can help to avoid a high turn around if you are upfront from the beginning of the hiring process. Hiring and firing require a lot of paperwork, therefore you can make it easier on yourself if you present the ins and outs of the position you are wishing to fill.

4) Guard Your Trade Secrets

Your intellectual property is what sets your business apart. It's important to safeguard your trademarks, copyrights, and other trade secrets. Ensure your intellectual property is properly protected. A new employee should sign a confidentiality agreement to help legally protect your business information.

5) Hire an Experienced Lawyer

There are a number of legal tips to help you protect your small business. Even with these precautions in place, a legal situation may still arise. An experienced lawyer can help represent your business when it is needed. Since you spend most of your time focusing on the ins and outs of your business, let our law firm help save you time!

Now that you've learned more about the ways you can protect your small business, you're ready to protect your venture. Our law firm at the Lake of the Ozarks can help you implement these legal protections that your business may need. While taking the above steps, Gibbons Law Firm can help prepare you to keep your business out of legal turmoil. Your initial consultation with our law firm is ALWAYS free! We look forward to helping to protect your small business venture at the Lake!

Remember, your initial consultation with Gibbons Law Firm is always free.

Your Trusted Legal Resource

Gibbons Law Firm

2820 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B4

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

(573) 348-2211

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Factors that Impact Child's Custody Resolution

A custody dispute is often a difficult time for everyone involved. Typically, both parents want to have some sort of custody of the child. It can turn ugly pretty quickly. It's best to keep your top priority in mind when going through a divorce that involves children - the happiness of your child. As your experienced divorce lawyer at the Lake of the Ozarks, we know this is a very trying time. Knowing the factors that can impact the resolution of your custody dispute can help you through the process. Take a look below and learn about the various situations that can impact custody resolution when filing for divorce.

Child's Relationship with Parent

An important factor in a child custody dispute is the child's relationship with each parent. If one parent has been more involved with a child in a divorce, that parent may more easily gain custody. It's important to be involved in your child's life, especially through a difficult time - like the divorce of his or her parents. Even if it may be awkward for the parents, try to stay as involved as possible with your child during this process. Being there for your child is really what is important!

Child's Preference

If your child is of a certain age, their preference may be a factor in the judge's decision for custody resolution. Your child may be more comfortable living with one parent over the other and this is an important factor. It's vital to your custody resolution that your child has a say if they are old enough to make such a decision.

Mental and Physical Health of Parent

Each parent may be evaluated for mental and physical health. This may help show which parent can provide a healthy environment for the child. If one parent has a drug history or alcohol addiction, they may not be the best fit for the child's care. Your number one goal during a custody dispute should be to provide a positive environment for your child, should they come to live with you.

Employment Obligations of Parent

If one parent is out of town for business frequently, this may not be the best fit for the child involved. It's important for the parent who receives custody to be able to provide a stable home environment which involved being present for your kid.

Living Accommodations for Child

Each parent's home may be evaluated for living condition. It's important to have a safe place for your child to live. Try to find a home that is clean and provides a positive space in which your child can thrive. This can greatly improve your chances of receiving custody of your child during the divorce process.

Parent's Wishes

The wishes of the parents may be taken into consideration during the process. If an agreement of joint custody can be resolved, the courts typically want both parents to be involved in the child's life. As long as both parents can provide a positive and safe environment for their child, a joint custody resolution is usually the right fit.

Types of Custody Resolutions:

Legal Custody - A parent who has legal custody are able to make legal decisions on matters impacting the child.

Physical Custody - The parent who the child physically lives with.

Sole Custody - One parent has both physical and legal custody of the child. The other parent may have visitation rights but does not have any custodial rights.

Joint Custody - Both parents share physical and legal custody, therefore making decisions about the child together.

Now that you've hopefully learned more about the custody resolution options, you are ready to find an experienced attorney at the Lake of the Ozarks. Our law firm in Lake Ozark, MO can help you through the entire divorce process - custody dispute included. If you anticipate going through a divorce in the near future, give Gibbons Law Firm a call. We can help you get started and work on presenting your side for custody resolution. Your first consultation with us is always free!

Remember, your initial consultation with Gibbons Law Firm is always free.

Your Trusted Legal Resource

Gibbons Law Firm

2820 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B4

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

(573) 348-2211

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