<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/"><channel><title>Articles | Peters Kussmaul Crosier PLLC</title><link>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog</link><description>Articles from the attorneys at Peters Kussmaul Crosier PLLC.</description><language>en-us</language><item><title>Caps and Baskets: How Buyers and Sellers Negotiate Risk in a Business Sale</title><link>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/caps-and-baskets-how-buyers-and-sellers-negotiate-risk-in-a-business-sale</link><guid>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/caps-and-baskets-how-buyers-and-sellers-negotiate-risk-in-a-business-sale</guid><pubDate>Thu, 18 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Robbie Crosier</dc:creator><description>A beautifully drafted set of seller promises is worth very little if the cap is too low to recover under or the basket is structured so you can never reach it. This article explains how caps and baskets control post-closing liability in a business sale, and how buyers and sellers negotiate each one.</description></item><item><title>Navigating the Letter of Intent: Binding Terms and Earnest Money Strategies for Business Buyers</title><link>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/navigating-the-letter-of-intent</link><guid>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/navigating-the-letter-of-intent</guid><pubDate>Mon, 09 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Robbie Crosier</dc:creator><description>Many business buyers assume a Letter of Intent is just a non-binding handshake on the purchase price. However, failing to lock in specific legal protections—or blindly agreeing to standard broker terms for earnest money deposits—can expose you to immense financial risk. This article breaks down exactly which LOI provisions must be legally binding and how to safely structure your deposit to protect your leverage and capital during due diligence.</description></item><item><title>INVEST Act Clears House, Pending Senate Approval</title><link>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/invest-act-clears-house-pending-senate-approval</link><guid>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/invest-act-clears-house-pending-senate-approval</guid><pubDate>Tue, 20 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Meghan Simmons</dc:creator><description>More than a decade after the JOBS Act, Congress is moving to cut the remaining red tape that holds back early-stage investment. The INVEST Act proposes significant updates, including a $50M fund benchmark and expanded investor access, to fuel the next generation of startups.</description></item><item><title>Net Working Capital: How to Avoid Overpaying When Buying a Small Business</title><link>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/net-working-capital-in-business-acquisitions</link><guid>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/net-working-capital-in-business-acquisitions</guid><pubDate>Mon, 13 Oct 2025 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Robbie Crosier</dc:creator><description>When you buy a business, you must also secure its operating capital. This article explains how to set a Net Working Capital Target to avoid overpaying or suffering a post-closing cash crisis.</description></item><item><title>The Benefits of Seller Financing for Business Buyers</title><link>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/the-benefits-of-seller-financing-for-business-buyers</link><guid>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/the-benefits-of-seller-financing-for-business-buyers</guid><pubDate>Mon, 18 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Robbie Crosier</dc:creator><description>Most business buyers see seller financing simply as a way to bridge a capital gap. But its most powerful function is strategic: a seller note ensures the seller has "skin in the game" after closing, turning them into a partner invested in your success. Learn how this alignment can lead to a smoother transition and set you up for long-term growth.</description></item><item><title>Asset Purchase vs. Stock Purchase: Tradeoffs for Buyers and Sellers</title><link>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/asset-purchase-vs-stock-purchase-tradeoffs-for-buyers-and-sellers</link><guid>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/asset-purchase-vs-stock-purchase-tradeoffs-for-buyers-and-sellers</guid><pubDate>Tue, 12 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Robbie Crosier</dc:creator><description>In nearly every business sale, the buyer and seller start with opposing goals for the deal's structure. Buyers push for an asset purchase to shield themselves from past liabilities and gain significant tax advantages. Sellers, on the other hand, aim for a stock sale to ensure a clean break and secure a more favorable tax outcome. This fundamental conflict over taxes and liability is the first major hurdle in any M&amp;A transaction. Understanding why each side takes their position is the first step to negotiating a successful deal.</description></item><item><title>Convertible Notes 101: A Founder's Guide to Startup Funding</title><link>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/convertible-notes-101</link><guid>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/convertible-notes-101</guid><pubDate>Thu, 31 Jul 2025 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Andrew Kussmaul</dc:creator><description>This article demystifies convertible notes for early-stage founders, explaining how the instrument converts short-term debt into equity and unpacking key terms such as valuation caps, discounts, interest, and maturity.</description></item><item><title>Navigating the Fine Print: Indemnification Clauses in Business Acquisitions</title><link>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/explanation-of-the-indemnification-clause-in-business-acquisitions</link><guid>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/explanation-of-the-indemnification-clause-in-business-acquisitions</guid><pubDate>Mon, 23 Jun 2025 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Robbie Crosier</dc:creator><description>The indemnification clause acts as the financial referee after a business sale, making the seller responsible for costly surprises and broken promises that surface down the road. This provision uses negotiated limits like baskets, caps, and survival periods to draw the financial lines, defining exactly who is on the hook when unexpected trouble appears.</description></item><item><title>Bad Faith Insurance Claims During Storm Season in Texas: What Policyholders Need to Know</title><link>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/bad-faith-insurance-claims-during-storm-season-in-texas-what-policyholders-need-to-know</link><guid>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/bad-faith-insurance-claims-during-storm-season-in-texas-what-policyholders-need-to-know</guid><pubDate>Fri, 09 May 2025 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Drew T. Peters</dc:creator><description>With Texas storm season well underway, PKC Founding Partner and trial attorney Drew T. Peters breaks down how to spot bad faith insurance practices after hail, wind, or hurricane damage, and explains the legal protections available to Texas policyholders.</description></item><item><title>Small Business Acquisitions: Avoiding Hidden Pitfalls in Due Diligence</title><link>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/avoiding-hidden-pitfalls-in-due-diligence</link><guid>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/avoiding-hidden-pitfalls-in-due-diligence</guid><pubDate>Tue, 25 Mar 2025 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Robbie Crosier</dc:creator><description>Small business acquisitions can come with unforeseen landmines hidden in the books, the customer relationships, and the team’s institutional knowledge. Taking the time to spot red flags in these key areas during due diligence is often the difference between a smooth takeover and an expensive misfire.</description></item><item><title>SAFE 101: A Founder’s Guide to Simple Agreements for Future Equity</title><link>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/safe-101-a-founders-guide-to-simple-agreements-for-future-equity</link><guid>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/safe-101-a-founders-guide-to-simple-agreements-for-future-equity</guid><pubDate>Mon, 03 Mar 2025 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Andrew Kussmaul</dc:creator><description>Learn how SAFEs can streamline your early-stage fundraising strategy. This quick guide provides startup founders with an overview of Simple Agreements for Future Equity (SAFEs), highlighting key terms, conversion mechanics, and their pros and cons.</description></item><item><title>Corporate Transparency Act Update: BOI Reporting Deadline Moved to March 21, 2025</title><link>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/corporate-transparency-act-update-boi-reporting-deadline-moved-to-march-21-2025</link><guid>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/corporate-transparency-act-update-boi-reporting-deadline-moved-to-march-21-2025</guid><pubDate>Mon, 24 Feb 2025 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Robbie Crosier</dc:creator><description>The extended deadline for most companies to file their Beneficial Ownership Information report under the Corporate Transparency Act is now March 21, 2025. While further extensions or modifications may be forthcoming, entities should continue gathering owner data and preparing their filings during this 30-day window.</description></item><item><title>Maintaining Your LLC's Liability Protection: Best Practices and the Evolution of Texas Law</title><link>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/maintaining-your-llcs-liability-protection-best-practices-and-the-evolution-of-texas-law</link><guid>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/maintaining-your-llcs-liability-protection-best-practices-and-the-evolution-of-texas-law</guid><pubDate>Mon, 10 Feb 2025 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Robbie Crosier</dc:creator><description>In this article, PKC corporate partner Robbie Crosier explains how the legal standards for LLC liability protection in Texas have evolved, particularly since 2011, and outlines best practices for LLC owners to maintain this protection for their personal assets.</description></item><item><title>A Business Owner’s Guide to Equipment Leasing</title><link>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/a-business-owners-guide-to-equipment-leasing</link><guid>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/a-business-owners-guide-to-equipment-leasing</guid><pubDate>Mon, 13 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Robbie Crosier</dc:creator><description>Leasing equipment offers businesses a flexible way to manage costs and stay current with evolving technology. This article breaks down the types of equipment leases, their benefits, and key terms to consider before signing an agreement.</description></item><item><title>FDD and Franchise Agreement: What You Need to Know as a Franchisee</title><link>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/fdd-and-franchise-agreement-what-you-need-to-know-as-a-franchisee</link><guid>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/fdd-and-franchise-agreement-what-you-need-to-know-as-a-franchisee</guid><pubDate>Fri, 27 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Robbie Crosier</dc:creator><description>Navigate franchise agreements with confidence. Learn what to review in Franchise Disclosure Documents (FDDs) and key provisions, from fees to noncompete clauses, to protect your investment.</description></item><item><title>12/3/2024: Texas Federal Court Suspends Corporate Transparency Act Enforcement Nationwide</title><link>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/texas-federal-court-suspends-corporate-transparency-act-enforcement-nationwide</link><guid>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/texas-federal-court-suspends-corporate-transparency-act-enforcement-nationwide</guid><pubDate>Thu, 05 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Robbie Crosier</dc:creator><description>A federal court in Texas has issued a nationwide injunction, halting enforcement of the Corporate Transparency Act’s reporting requirements.</description></item><item><title>Why Corporate Formalities Matter</title><link>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/why-corporate-formalities-matter</link><guid>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/why-corporate-formalities-matter</guid><pubDate>Thu, 21 Nov 2024 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Robbie Crosier</dc:creator><description>Protect your personal assets and keep your business running smoothly by observing corporate formalities. Learn how proper recordkeeping, compliance, and best practices for corporations and LLCs can safeguard your liability shield, support decision-making, and ensure legal and tax compliance.</description></item><item><title>FTC’s “Click to Cancel” Rule: A Major Step Toward Consumer Protection</title><link>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/ftc-click-to-cancel</link><guid>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/ftc-click-to-cancel</guid><pubDate>Thu, 17 Oct 2024 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Robbie Crosier</dc:creator><description>The FTC's "Click to Cancel" rule streamlines subscription cancellations, requiring businesses to make the process as simple as signing up. This update ensures transparency, protects consumers and businesses, and enforces penalties for non-compliance.</description></item><item><title>Franchise vs. Small Business: Which is the Right Choice for You?</title><link>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/franchise-vs-small-business-which-is-the-right-choice-for-you</link><guid>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/franchise-vs-small-business-which-is-the-right-choice-for-you</guid><pubDate>Mon, 30 Sep 2024 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Robbie Crosier</dc:creator><description>Deciding between buying into a franchise and starting your own small business can be a tough call. This article breaks down the benefits and drawbacks of each option, helping entrepreneurs make an informed decision.</description></item><item><title>How to Fund a Trust: The Basics</title><link>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/how-to-fund-a-trust</link><guid>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/how-to-fund-a-trust</guid><pubDate>Mon, 16 Sep 2024 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Robbie Crosier</dc:creator><description>Funding a trust is a critical step in ensuring that your estate plan works as intended. This guide covers the essentials of transferring assets into your trust to keep your wealth protected.</description></item><item><title>The FTC’s Noncompete Ban: What to Know</title><link>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/ftc-noncompete-ban-what-to-know</link><guid>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/ftc-noncompete-ban-what-to-know</guid><pubDate>Wed, 07 Aug 2024 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Emily Williams</dc:creator><description>Here’s what you need to know about the FTC’s ban on noncompete agreements, as of early August 2024.</description></item><item><title>Intellectual Property Basics for Businesses</title><link>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/intellectual-property-basics-for-businesses</link><guid>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/intellectual-property-basics-for-businesses</guid><pubDate>Tue, 09 Jul 2024 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Robbie Crosier</dc:creator><description>Learn the basics of intellectual property protection with this short overview from your legal team at PKC.</description></item><item><title>Does Your Company Need a Shareholder Agreement?</title><link>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/does-your-company-need-a-shareholder-agreement</link><guid>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/does-your-company-need-a-shareholder-agreement</guid><pubDate>Mon, 06 May 2024 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Robbie Crosier</dc:creator><description>Explore the important role of shareholder agreements in closely held corporations to mitigate risks and ensure long-term success. Learn how these legal tools can prevent future conflicts and promote stability in your business.</description></item><item><title>Should You Buy a Franchise? The Pros and Cons of Acquiring a Franchised Business</title><link>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/should-you-buy-a-franchise-pros-cons</link><guid>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/should-you-buy-a-franchise-pros-cons</guid><pubDate>Mon, 29 Apr 2024 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Robbie Crosier</dc:creator><description>Explore the advantages and disadvantages of buying a franchise, including legal considerations and the impact on control and creativity. Learn what it takes to succeed in franchise ownership.</description></item><item><title>LLC and Corporation Annual Meetings Explained: What Business Owners Need to Know</title><link>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/llc-and-corporation-annual-meetings-explained-what-business-owners-need-to-know</link><guid>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/llc-and-corporation-annual-meetings-explained-what-business-owners-need-to-know</guid><pubDate>Mon, 15 Apr 2024 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Robbie Crosier</dc:creator><description>Explore the critical aspects of annual meetings for LLCs and corporations, including legal requirements, practical business reasons, and compliance tips to safeguard your business's legal structure.</description></item><item><title>Selling Your Family Business to a Third Party</title><link>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/selling-your-family-business-to-a-third-party</link><guid>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/selling-your-family-business-to-a-third-party</guid><pubDate>Mon, 15 Apr 2024 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Robbie Crosier</dc:creator><description>Discover essential strategies for selling your family business to an outsider, including the importance of pre-diligence, accurate business valuation, and securing experienced legal guidance to ensure a smooth transition.</description></item><item><title>What is Due Diligence When Buying a Business?</title><link>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/what-is-due-diligence-when-buying-a-business</link><guid>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/what-is-due-diligence-when-buying-a-business</guid><pubDate>Mon, 15 Apr 2024 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Robbie Crosier</dc:creator><description>Uncover the essentials of due diligence when buying a business to navigate potential risks and make informed decisions during mergers and acquisitions.</description></item><item><title>Buying a “Main Street” Business in Dallas-Fort Worth</title><link>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/a-guide-to-buying-a-main-street-business-in-dallas-fort-worth</link><guid>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/a-guide-to-buying-a-main-street-business-in-dallas-fort-worth</guid><pubDate>Tue, 02 Apr 2024 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Robbie Crosier</dc:creator><description>Explore a step-by-step guide on acquiring a Main Street business in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, from initial search to final acquisition.</description></item><item><title>Exploring the Benefits of Seller Financing in Main Street Business Acquisitions</title><link>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/exploring-the-benefits-of-seller-financing-in-main-street-business-acquisitions</link><guid>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/exploring-the-benefits-of-seller-financing-in-main-street-business-acquisitions</guid><pubDate>Tue, 02 Apr 2024 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Robbie Crosier</dc:creator><description>Discover how seller financing in the purchase of a main street business offers financial advantages to the buyer and ensures the seller remains invested in the business's ongoing success.</description></item><item><title>How to Form a Texas PLLC (Professional Limited Liability Company)</title><link>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/how-to-form-a-texas-pllc-professional-limited-liability-company</link><guid>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/how-to-form-a-texas-pllc-professional-limited-liability-company</guid><pubDate>Tue, 02 Apr 2024 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Robbie Crosier</dc:creator><description>In this article, learn how and why to form a Texas PLLC to represent your professional practice.</description></item><item><title>The Strategic Value of Holding Companies for Business Owners: Myths and Real Use Cases</title><link>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/the-strategic-value-of-holding-companies-for-business-owners-myths-and-real-use-cases</link><guid>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/the-strategic-value-of-holding-companies-for-business-owners-myths-and-real-use-cases</guid><pubDate>Tue, 19 Mar 2024 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Robbie Crosier</dc:creator><description>This post distinguishes legitimate use cases for holding companies from common misconceptions. Explore how these structures can offer anonymity, asset protection, and simplify investments, highlighting when they are most beneficial for business owners.</description></item><item><title>The Trademark Search: A Critical Step that Can Save Your Startup</title><link>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/the-trademark-search-a-critical-step-that-can-save-your-startup</link><guid>https://www.pkclegal.com/blog/the-trademark-search-a-critical-step-that-can-save-your-startup</guid><pubDate>Thu, 14 Mar 2024 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Robbie Crosier</dc:creator><description>Taking the time to slow down and run a trademark search before launching your startup could save you a lot in the long run. This quick article explains how.</description></item></channel></rss>