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The Contracts You Can Finally Let Go Of
The Contracts You Can Finally Let Go Of Outdated business contracts are a lot like the forgotten boxes sitting at the back of a cupboard. You know they’re there, but sorting through them never feels urgent-until you finally take a proper look. A few weeks ago, I hired...
The Contract Clauses Most Small Business Owners Skip (And Why They’re the Ones That Bite)
The Contract Clauses Most Small Business Owners Skip (And Why They're the Ones That Bite) Most people don't read contract clauses the way they think they do. They skim the top for the price. They check the dates. If it all looks roughly right, they sign. And most of...
Contract Review: What a Contract Review Actually Includes
What a Contract Review Actually Includes (and Why It's Worth It) Most people who come to a contract review aren't entirely sure what they're asking for. They have a vague sense that something isn't quite right. A client pushing back on payment terms, a supplier...
Before June 30: The Legal Stuff Most Business Owners Skip
Before June 30, the legal stuff most business owners skip I have this conversation more than any other. A business owner comes to me with a problem, and when we look at their agreement together during a business contract review, the problem was already there. It just...
Sub-Contractor Agreements — The Gaps That Cost You Later
A lot of growing businesses reach the same point. “I can’t do everything myself anymore.” So they bring someone in. A VA. A designer. A social media manager. A contractor. A specialist provider. And it usually starts well. Informally, even. Because the relationship...
Your Supplier Agreement Needs to Fit Your Business. Not Someone Else’s.
Many businesses think carefully about their client contracts. But when it comes to supplier agreements for small business, the conversation is usually very different. Either there’s nothing formally in place at all. Or there’s an agreement but it was downloaded...
When Clients Change the Scope or Stop Paying – This Is What Your Contract Should Say
The scope of services with your client expands beyond what was agreed after extensive discussions. Suddenly or subtly, the Client asks for more. An additional task here or an additional service there. Or, critically, payments for services slow down, become irregular…...
What Actually Causes Most Contract Problems (It’s Not What You Think)
Let me keep this simple. Most contract problems in small business aren’t big, complicated legal issues. They’re small gaps. Things like: no clear payment terms no cancellation structure agreements that don’t reflect how the business actually runs At the time,...
Unfair Contracts in Real Life: What Happens When You Speak Up
Unfair contract terms often don’t stand out at the beginning. There’s a moment in many contract disputes that doesn’t get talked about enough. It’s not when the contract is signed.It’s not when the payment is made. It’s the moment you realise something doesn’t feel...
5 Contract Clauses Every Service-Based Business Should Have (and Why They Matter)
If you run a service-based business, your contract is one of the most important tools you have. Not because it needs to be long or complicated. But because it needs to be clear, practical and aligned with how your business actually operates. Strong contract clauses...
Fit for Purpose Services: What Happens When Social Media Management Misses the Mark
When Services Are Not Fit for Purpose: A Lesson from Hiring Social Media Managers Many small business owners outsource work such as marketing, design, administration, or social media. When it works well, outsourcing can be transformative for a business. But when it...
Subscription Cancellation, Refund Rights & Australian Consumer Law: What Small Businesses Must Know
Subscription Cancellation, Refund Rights & Australian Consumer Law: What Small Businesses Must Know International Consumer Rights Day (15 March) is a timely reminder that consumer protection and commercial success are not opposites. In Australia, businesses...
Protection Is Power: Why Smart Women in Business Protect Their Work
Protection Is Power: Why Smart Women in Business Protect Their Work International Women’s Day is a useful reminder that building a business is more than passion and hard work, it’s also structure. In my practice, I work with women-led small businesses every day. They...
What’s Changing in the NDIS? A Straightforward Guide for Sole Traders
What's Changing in the NDIS? A Straightforward Guide for Sole Traders If you're an NDIS sole trader, you've probably been hearing about upcoming changes. Maybe you're feeling a bit overwhelmed and that's completely understandable. Here's the thing: change is...
DIY Legal vs Templates: Why Templates Are the Smart Middle Ground for Small Business Owners
Feeling stuck between DIY contracts and expensive lawyers? There’s a smarter way to protect your business without the overwhelm. DIY legal (Google, Canva, ChatGPT, or “borrowing” from someone else’s website), or Custom lawyer drafting, which feels out of reach right...
The Year Your Business Grows Up (Legally)
The Year Your Business Grows Up (Legally) — Without Losing Its Heart January has a different energy. It’s quieter.More honest. After the rush of December, many business owners arrive here with a realisation they didn’t quite expect: My business has grown… but my...
Thinking About White Labelling? Here’s What to Know First
White labelling has become one of the most common growth strategies in business. It’s attractive for good reason: you can put your brand on products or services without reinventing the wheel. From skincare to supplements, from coaching programs to software, the model...
The Right to Disconnect: What Small Business Owners Need to Know
As of 26 August 2025, the Right to Disconnect is law for small business employers across Australia. This workplace law gives employees the right to ignore work-related communication outside their usual working hours if that contact is not reasonable. If you are a...
Wait… You Paid Them AND They Ghosted You? The Clauses Every Business Owner Needs for Late or Missing Work
You’ve scoped the project. You’ve paid the invoice. You’re ready to roll. Then... nothing. The copywriter disappears. The developer won’t reply to emails. The social media manager says, “Next week” for the third week in a row. This isn’t just an inconvenience to the...
Understanding Cooling-Off Periods in Australia: What You Need to Know
You’ve just landed a new client, sent over your contract, and locked in the sale—great news! But then you get that dreaded message: “Actually, I’ve changed my mind.” So, what happens now? Do they have a legal right to back out? Enter the concept of cooling-off...
Do You Owe Refunds When Someone Buys Just Before a Sale?
What You Need to Know for Your EOFY Sales Have you ever launched a sale and then received those familiar emails? You know the ones. The customers who bought just a few days earlier asking if you can refund them the difference between what they paid and the new sale...
How to Set Up an NDIS Business as a Sole Trader
Starting an NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) business as a sole trader can be a rewarding way to provide support services to participants while running your own business. However, there are essential steps you must follow to ensure your business is legally...
Should You Trust AI to Write Your Business Contracts? Here’s What You Need to Know
There’s no denying it—AI is having a moment. From writing emails to generating social captions, it’s become a go-to tool for many small business owners looking to save time, reduce admin, and get things done. And now, more and more people are turning to AI tools like...
A Small Business Guide to Lost Deliveries: Who’s Responsible and How to Handle It
Lost deliveries are a frustrating issue for small businesses, especially when they result in financial loss and customer dissatisfaction. Whether a courier misplaces a package, Australia Post leaves it in an insecure location, or a customer claims non-receipt despite...
When and Why You Should Notify Customers About Privacy Policy Changes
Let’s be honest—privacy policies aren’t exactly the most exciting topic. But they are an essential way to build trust with your customers. If your business changes the way it collects, stores, or shares personal data, you can’t just update your privacy policy and hope...
New Year, New Business Habits – Your Legal Essentials to Start the Year Right
A new year brings a fresh perspective, new goals, and an unparalleled opportunity to refine your business practices. But while you're setting your intentions for growth and success, have you considered how your legal foundations measure up? Whether you're running a...
New Year, New Contracts: Updating Your Business Agreements for 2025
As 2025 approaches, business owners are buzzing with plans, goals, and fresh ambitions. But amid the excitement of starting anew, one crucial aspect often gets overlooked: your business contracts. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just finding your footing,...
Sham Contracting in Australia: Are You at Risk?
Navigating the nuances of employment law in Australia can be challenging for small business owners. One of the trickiest aspects is determining whether a working arrangement qualifies as genuine contracting or if it crosses the line into sham contracting....
What You Can Learn from the FTC’s New Click-to-Cancel Rule
Virtually everything is now a subscription or membership service. In an era where subscription-based business models are becoming increasingly prevalent, consumer protection agencies worldwide are taking steps to ensure fair practices. Recently, the U.S. Federal Trade...
My Story of Resilience and Growth
When I think about my journey to founding Love Your Legals, I'm often struck by how far I've come. It's a path that began long before I ever dreamed of starting my own legal practice, rooted in the experiences of a young girl who found herself thrust into a new world,...
How to Navigate the Legal Landscape of Business Collaboration
Whether you're a solopreneur looking to expand your reach or an established company seeking fresh perspectives, partnering with others can open doors to exciting opportunities. Beneath the hopes of shared success, there are complexities that I don’t want any small...
Elevate Your Digital Marketing Business with Watertight Contracts
As a small business lawyer who has worked with many digital marketers, I've seen firsthand how a well-crafted contract can make or break a business. Having clear, comprehensive agreements is a cornerstone of success that helps you impress your clients and set the...
Tips for Gathering Evidence for an Effective Cease and Desist Letter
As a course creator or program developer, your intellectual property (IP) is one of your most valuable assets. When someone, such as a student, employee, or contractor, copies or steals your work, it can be a frustrating and potentially damaging experience. In such...
Doing Your Due Diligence as a Small Business Entrepreneur
As an entrepreneur with a great new business idea, it's tempting to rush full speed ahead and bring your vision to life. However, failing to do thorough due diligence upfront can lead to costly mistakes down the road. Taking the time to thoroughly research and...
Thinking About Money-Back Guarantees? You Need to Read This
When running a small business, it's crucial to consider how you can build trust with your customers. One effective way to do this is by offering a money-back guarantee. However, it is equally important to understand the details of these guarantees, how they operate...
Avoiding Client Frustration in Your Auto-Renewal Terms
If you want an effective way to upset your existing customers, putting an auto-renew into your contracts that your customers aren’t aware of is a good place to start. Often tucked away in the fine print, these clauses can lead to unexpected financial commitments and...
What Small Businesses Need to Know About Photography, Model Releases, and Parental Consent Forms
Navigating the legal landscape of photography in a professional setting, especially when it involves models or minors, is a crucial aspect of running a small business today. With the surge in social media's role in marketing and brand development, understanding the...
My New Year Wishes for Your Small Business
The dawning of a new year brings with it a sense of renewal, opportunity, and the chance to set ambitious goals for your small business. As we embark on this journey into 2024, I want your business to flourish in ways beyond imagination. The path to success is paved...
Managing Refund Requests During the Silly Season
As the festive season approaches, businesses often experience a surge in refund and exchange requests. Large chain stores typically have a reasonably flexible exchange/refund policy, particularly if you have a receipt. However, I regularly come across small businesses...
Did You Know? Big Changes Are Coming for Standard Form Contracts
Here's something essential you might not be aware of: the legal landscape for small business owners is shifting. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) is sending out a clear message - it's time for businesses to revisit their standard form...
Dealing with Late Payments: A Guide for Small Business Owners
Late payments can be a frustrating challenge for small business owners. When a client or customer fails to pay their bill on time, it can disrupt your cash flow and create unnecessary stress. However, addressing this issue effectively is crucial for the financial...
Do You Know the Requirements for Was/Now Pricing?
In the dynamic landscape of small businesses, pricing and advertising are like two sides of the same coin. Entrepreneurs often employ various strategies to attract customers and increase sales. A widely used tactic is 'was/now' or 'two-price' advertising. It can be a...
My Essential Tips for Small Business Gift Cards in Australia
It’s my birthday month, and with the holiday season approaching too, the topic of gift cards has been on my mind. Gift cards have become a staple in the gifting world, offering flexibility and choice for recipients while boosting sales for businesses. However, beneath...
Consumer Guarantees – What Business Owners Need to Know
Consumer guarantees protect consumers' rights when purchasing goods or services. As a small business owner, it is essential to have a clear understanding of these guarantees to ensure compliance with Australian Consumer Law (ACL). It is crucial to understand these...
Dealing with Unfair Contracts: A Small Business Guide
In business, encountering unfair contracts can be a frustrating reality for small business owners. Many find themselves in agreements where the terms heavily favour the service provider, leaving them disadvantaged. However, with the proper knowledge and approach, it's...
How to Create Effective Contracts, Communication, and Clear Offers for Affiliate Marketing
Building and maintaining strong relationships with affiliates is an innovative marketing plan for many business owners, especially those in the coaching space. Affiliates have the potential to expand your reach, increase your revenue, and enhance your brand...
Why Every Digital Marketer Needs an Industry-Specific Client Contract
As a small business lawyer, I've seen firsthand the importance of having contracts in place when working with clients in the digital marketing industry. The world of digital marketing is full of constant change, and it can be tempting to rely on informal agreements...
Your Ideas are Worth Something. Make Sure You Protect Them
One of the things I see small business owners do that I dread is asking for feedback about a new idea in a Facebook group. Seeing people excited about their ideas is great, but doing this is a dangerous practice; here's why. As a small business owner, you may...
How to Reduce Customer Refund Requests in your Coaching Business
Coaching is a fast-growing industry in Australia. As a lawyer for business contracts, I regularly work with coaches who have seen an increased trend in refund requests or client complaints before they develop relevant coaching terms and conditions. As a business,...
Are you creating or hosting an Online Course this year? First, you need to read this.
Are you a small business owner considering adding an online course to your client offering? Maybe you already have an online course, but you’ve realised something is missing. If that sounds like you, you’re not alone. The global eLearning market is expected to hit...
Reflecting on 2022 at Love Your Legals
The year is almost over, and it’s been another year full of ups, downs, and everything in between. I didn’t know what to expect from 2022 after the previous two years of covid chaos, and I was pleasantly surprised with how the year turned out. Professionally, in 2022...
Are the terms and conditions on a website legally binding?
Not long ago, I was asked by a client if the terms and conditions on the websites they visited, and their own, were legally binding. It's a fair question. The website terms and Conditions (or terms of use) seem to be a document that users largely gloss over. The short...
Starting a Small Business – When Do You Need a Lawyer?
Starting a small business is equal parts exciting and terrifying. There is so much to learn, do and celebrate. Getting advice is part of the process; you should get it from the right people at the right time. Yes, Aunt Flora likely has opinions about how you should...
How to Manage Perfectionism in a Customer Service Business
Stephen Hawking once said, "One of the basic rules of the universe is that nothing is perfect. Perfection simply doesn't exist. Without imperfection, neither you nor I would exist." Most of us know, in theory at least) that perfection is impossible, but strive for it...
Do you take deposits in your business? Then, you need to read this.
Many small business owners I speak with regularly take service or product deposits. Deposits are a great way to add extra security to your payment terms. First, however, you need to understand how deposits work, when they need to be refunded and how to make sure you...
Why Late Payment Fees Don’t Fix Everything (and What You Can Do Instead)
I think it’s fair to suggest that some business owners are feeling a little stressed lately. Particularly when it comes to ensuring they are getting paid for their work. Sound familiar? I discuss how my clients get paid in every custom-drafting call. If you’re in...
Why Every Business Coach Needs a Client Agreement
If you are a business coach who has made it to this blog, it’s safe to assume that you are not the type of business coach whose sales plan is to pressure clients into buying something they can’t afford, without consideration or time to review the client agreement,...
Common Mistakes Small Businesses Make with their Privacy Policy
When did you last think about your Privacy Policy? Never? It’s not surprising. Small business owners have their priorities pulled in many different directions, and their Privacy Policy usually isn’t anywhere near the top of the list. A privacy policy is one of those...
Why do small business owners feel the pressure to do work for free or cheap?
Why do so many of us expect products and services to be free or cheap because it comes from a small business? And why is it that so many small business owners oblige, selling themselves short and barely making a living? Society has created a lot of strange norms,...
Is your health & wellness industry business working with influencers, or are you thinking about working with influencers? You need to read this.
There is no doubt that influencers have become part of a powerful marketing strategy; however, advertising in the health industry just got a whole lot harder. With recent changes announced by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), here is what you need to know...
Why Every Business Needs a Non-Disclosure Agreement
Whether your business has been operating for decades, or you are excited about a fresh idea under development right now, you need a Non-Disclosure Agreement. In movies and TV, I know it seems like Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) are only for famous people and...
Do Your Potential Customers Know, Like, and Trust you?
It is a common belief that to do business successfully, your customers need to Know, Like, and Trust you or your brand. Do the same rules apply to product-based businesses as much as service-based ones? Yes! The principle might look different in practice across...
How to successfully decide what to tackle next (and how legal templates can help)
One big challenge business owners face daily is deciding what task to tackle next. Creating and building a business is demanding emotionally, mentally, and financially. There are so many competing priorities for your time, energy and money. So what do you do first? Do...
The 3 Things Women Need to Know Before They Start or Grow a Business
You've got a brilliant business idea that you know will take off. Now what? How do you ensure your business idea or growth strategy is protected and successful? After working with hundreds of start-up business owners through Love Your Legals, I've identified three key...
Are you offering a payment plan to customers?
Get all the details with my take on successfully managing payment plans in (virtually) any small business. I have been pondering payment plans. I draft many Service Agreements. Every Service Agreement has Payment Terms included, and MANY also have Payment Plan options...
5 Areas I will be Reviewing in My Business in the New Financial Year
The new financial year is here! If you’re like the business owners I’ve spoken with recently, it’s a milestone worth celebrating. From the end of JobKeeper, to snap lockdowns, wage increases and tax returns, it has been a tiring year. I believe it is a time to start...
Good contracts create good relationships, especially during Covid-19 lockdowns
It feels like we’re playing a challenging game of Covid-19 whack-a-mole in Australia right now. As a result, I’ve had MANY small business owners reach out for advice about lockdown-related cancellations and refunds. I’ve had my own personal experience of navigating an...
Does My Business Need a Privacy Policy?
Privacy policies are one of those things that many start-ups think they don't need to worry about. However, almost every business needs to have an effective privacy policy. A privacy policy is a statement or a legal document that discloses how you gather, use,...
Have you read any Terms & Conditions lately?
I’m often asked whether a contractual term or condition is legally binding, and/or enforceable. Because let’s face it, so many people don’t take time to read, and properly understand ALL the clauses in a contract. Just think of all the times you: - clicked “accept” on...
End of Financial Year Legal Checklist
So you blinked, and it’s already the End of Financial Year! Along with all your financial responsibilities, don't forget that there's a few legal responsibilities too! With all the turmoil recently, things are likely to be extra-complex this year, so don't be afraid...
Breaking Up with Clients Legally
Breaking up is legally hard – particularly when it's with a client. Clearly, this is NOT the outcome we envision when we accept a new client, and for most small business start-ups, it causes huge anxiety to turn down work. BUT sometimes, there are differences in...
Did you know…? Templates have rules of use! Read on….
When purchasing a template, it's important to understand the rules of use. I want to share a conversation with you about using Legally Shalini templates for commercial purposes, other than your own website and business because this applies to any templates you buy to...
Mindset, Relationship, and Life Coaches – how well is your client agreement written?
Being a Heart Centred Entrepreneur – What Does Your Client Agreement Say About You? Law is not the easiest of professions. Trust me, we do not come to our profession with creativity, empathy and heart space as a priority. Creativity and heart-centeredness is beaten...
Testimonials for Small Business – legal problems and solutions.
If you're a small business, testimonials from happy customers are great to use when encouraging new customers to choose you, rather than your competition. They can be a key factor deciding whether to work with you or not, so it’s important to get them right. But you...
One KEY thing that Business Planning Checklists miss!
Wow, 2021 is at our door! After the shenanigans of 2020, a little bit of planning now will go a long way towards a steadier, productive and profitable 2021. Many planning checklists will come your way and checklists are great. Except most business planning...
It’s November – Time to Give Thanks!
Welcome to November! To honour the North American tradition of Thanksgiving, and the Black Friday Sales that follow, I’m having a momentous week of spectacular promotions to kick off December. I’m so thankful that I’m still here and still healthy. So while 2020 has...
Calling all coaching or therapy service providers!
Do you have a Service Contract? Your own custom drafted service contract for YOUR coaching service? Perhaps you offer some or all of these - Business coaching Mindset coaching Visibility coaching Health coaching Energetic therapies Holistic Health Massage therapy...
When Copy/ Paste Becomes IP Theft.
When Copy/ Paste Becomes IP Theft. So, you're a new small business, everyone wants a piece of your time, your suppliers all want their money and your customers are refusing to pay. Your profits are being squashed from all sides, and something's got to give. You are...
I am Woman. I am Human. I am a Legal Practitioner.
This is difficult to write... but write it I must. Tonight, like so many other business women, I am feeling very stressed, overwhelmed and so tired. The most positive thing I can summon energy for is hot milo on coconut milk and Bloodline on Netflix and my couch....
Are penalty fees legal?
Is it legal to charge late payment, penalty or cancellation fees? With all the Corona and COVID issues at the moment, there’s so many order cancellations, late payments, and customers defaulting on invoicing at the moment – it seems timely to discuss the legalities of...
How Your Client Agreement Builds Better Relationships
Shalini recently spoke with Lauren Stratford, Productivity Coach at Seriously Sorted, regarding client agreements and the multitude of benefits. You can listen here to the podcast, or you may prefer to read the transcript below. As always, if you need help with your...
How well do you really know your business?
We all like to think that we know our businesses inside out, but if you don’t have a solid client agreement, how well do you really know your business? You may know that you have a service or product-based business, and that you’re seeing clients, or that you’re...
The most important question to ask your business coach – Do you have a Coaching Agreement?
Coaching Agreement - There is always something to be learned from an ordinary or poor coaching experience but by far the biggest lesson is to avoid a Coach that does not have a fair and well thought out Coaching Contract. Are you satisfied with your coaching...
Now more than ever Refund Policies are important to your business
Refund Policy - Because of the current crisis in health and the economy, people are very concerned about spending money. They are looking carefully at refund policies for online sales of products and services. Are you selling online - products which require...
Common Pain Points New Female Entrepreneurs Face During Their Start-up Phase
Having been in the legal space for going on 20 years, it’s safe to say that I have had a vast number of conversations with business owners seeking legal support! Some were with established business owners. Some were with men in business. But by far largest business...
5 Strategies To Manage Refunds and Cancellations During The Corona Virus Crisis
Corona Virus Effects On Business Corona Virus has affected all businesses, micro, small, national and global. As a result, small business and solopreneurs are having to manage refunds and cancellations of services and orders, which is having a severe negative impact...
Engaging a Private Legal Firm versus connecting with a Heart-Centred Lawyer
Connecting With a Heart-Centred Laywer I’ve always embraced my creativity and ability to look at things from a different perspective, all while keeping to the rules. I’m sure you can appreciate; rules and regulations are critical in the legal space. Being a registered...
Are Double Opt-ins Mandatory?
Let's talk double opt-ins. I get a lot of questions about GDPR and how to remain compliant. It is nearly 18 months since GDPR came into force and there is now some more clarity about how these new laws affect the use of opt-ins - double opt-ins, to be specific....
Your legal responsibility to moderate your Facebook Page
If you have a Facebook business page, you need to read this - it may change how you view your role as page admin. Recently a landmark judgement in NSW held business owners to be responsible for third party comments on their Facebook page and groups. This decision...
Reflecting on Business – Then and Now – And Reframing Direction
A new financial year is here! So, I took some time to reflect on my business, remembering where I started and reframe how I am feeling about the next 12 months. Back in 2016, I did my first of two webinars on legal for start-ups (“Do I need legals for that?”). From...
Protect Your Business With A Non-Disclosure Agreement
A Non-Disclosure Agreement, also known as a Confidentiality Agreement, is a key tool for protecting your business ideas. Whether you are: starting a new business creating a new project or service in your business need to talk about ideas about a new direction product...
Protecting Your Intellectual Property In Your Business T&Cs
Protecting intellectual property You've worked hard creating your business, right? It’s taken a lot of thinking and overthinking and discussion with besties and mentors to refine your business idea and to come up with that perfect business name. Right? Have you...
5 Ways to Love Your Legals
We all want a beautiful business, exquisitely crafted, that delivers magnificent results for our clients and gives us a wonderful life. Part of nailing business mastery is getting good at marketing what you do; the more you market, the more clients you attract. As you...
A Quote Is An Offer, Not a Contract
Do you feel you are committed to a quote or a proposal you provided for a client? It's important to understand that a quote is just an offer, and you can still refuse the client if it doesn't feel like a good fit. You put time and effort into providing your scope of...
What Is A Disclaimer
A disclaimer is a statement about your capacity to provide the services that you provide. Disclaimer = a statement that specifies or delimits the scope of rights of visitors to your website AND it limits your obligations as the service provider and owner of your...
The Law About “Valued At” Pricing
Valued At Pricing "Valued At" pricing is something you will see a lot, especially online. It often looks something like this: "Purchase now for $97 (valued at $597): "Early Bird Price $97 (Value $497)" "Buy now $450 (Value $3500)" I'll bet you've seen this before. ...
3 Important Reasons You Need A Disclaimer In Your Email Signature
You may see email signature disclaimers on a lot of business emails… Do you wonder why businesses have them? Some disclaimers are very long and detailed and others are very brief. Do you need to have an email signature disclaimer in every email you send? No, it is not...
How Your Business Model Impacts Your Legals
I recently had a discovery call with a woman who wanted to start a business selling eco-friendly products. She would sell everything from reusable cups, straws, bags, healthy snacks, teas, biodegradable nappies, and more. After she came up with her idea, this lovely...
3 critical affiliate link disclosures for Australian bloggers
Affiliate link disclosures are a legal requirement, whether you blog for money or for pleasure. So if you're an Australian blogger, here are 3 critical things you need to know about your affiliate link disclosures. Affiliate link disclosures will impact you, whether...
Is it OK to use images from Google on my website?
Are you writing a blog and wondering what the deal is with using photos from the internet? The internet is a visual smorgasbord – photos are dished up from everywhere – published on Google, Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram. So, the question is: Can you download a...
Why be bothered with a compliant Privacy Policy?
In this video I explain why you need to be bothered with a compliant Privacy Policy even if you do not reside or conduct business in Europe under the GDPR laws. The information I discuss in...
Comply with GDPR in your Privacy Policy
Your Privacy Policy MUST comply with GDPR, even if you work in Australia. I often hear from business owners: "I am selling in Australia only - I don't' need to have a Privacy Policy or worry about GDPR" - This is not true! Another common question is – "do I have to...
Is your Privacy Policy GDPR Compliant?
Is your Privacy Policy Compliant with new GDPR laws? Why it's important you have one? Do you need a Privacy Policy? How old is your policy? Does it need updating to comply with the new laws? Watch this video for some answers to these questions and more! ...
Do You Know Who You Are Doing Business With?
Do you really know the Muffin Man? Ha ha! What I mean is, do you know who you're actually doing business with? Sometimes, the name of the person you're directly working with is not the name that should be shown on the client agreement or invoice. In order to make sure...
How To add your Privacy Policy to your Facebook Page
Did you know that General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) requires that your Facebook Business Page have a compliant Privacy Policy uploaded? This requirement educates your visitors on how you manage information they may be asked to provide via your Facebook...
Why start-ups avoid setting up legals
It is all too common that setting up legals are a lower priority for new business owners. So why should legals be a priority in start up phase? And why are they so often avoided? This question was raised by members of a business mastermind in which I participate as a...
10 Ways Business Terms & Conditions Educate Your Clients
Hey you, yes you...over there. Yes you who are poring over your social media post plans, your canva graphic creation to match your #helpfultips posts, and your offer copy that you labour over for #promoday not to mention trying to find a graphic to match! You are...
8 Tips For Managing Contract Amendments
If you are a smart business person you will have a service contract or client agreement in place with all of the clients you work with. You will also be asked to sign a contract when doing business with another service provider. For example that may be a contract or...
Why your blog post needs a disclaimer
Blogging is fun AND it’s a key marketing tool for businesses. Well written blog posts reinforce your messaging and branding, educate and provide value for your audience, and can be an income stream. BUT... Blogs can also offer advice and opinions and if taken the...
Why You Need a Refund Policy
Why You Need a Refund Policy. . . Not having one is a poor business strategy! In this video, I talk about how an appropriate Refund Policy for your business helps protect you from liability. If you need help developing a Refund Policy for your business you can...
Terms of Sale – Are you covered for holidays and special promotions?
Does your Terms of Sale policy cover you for Specials or Holiday Promotions? Holiday and special promotion times such as Christmas sales, New Year or EOFY sales, Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Easter, IWD, etc, are all great times for small businesses to inject...
Legal Disclaimers for Therapists and Healers
Calling Therapists and Healers of all modalities! Legals are important for you too! This video is for therapists and healers across all modalities who have an online presence, sell goods online, and deliver booking services and consultations online. Let's talk...
Complying With GDPR As An Australian Small Business
Now that GDPR is a thing, as an online business owner, you must check that your website legals comply with GDPR. This live is all about who's who in the GDPR jungle and YOUR role in your Privacy Policy. This video is about what your role is with regards to your...
How To Ask Your Clients To Meet Their Obligations
Client Obligations Shouldn't be Stresseful If you feel the way you are asking for payment or any other obligations from from the client too aggressively - you need to watch this video! If you still have trouble asking a client to meet their obligations, then contact...
FAQs are not Business Terms and Conditions (and why you need both!)
You may see on many websites selling items or services a section called the "FAQ" or the "Frequently Asked Questions" section. I want to draw your attention to the difference between FAQs and actual agreements, policies, or legals on your website that people are bound...
Website Legals for Smart Business & Professional Branding
https://youtu.be/2SG0mnjH6bs Today my main focus is sharing why you need to have certain online legals on your website for it to be smart for your business, and to be smart for your branding. A big part of having a website is that it is the face of your...
4 online business legals you must have for startup and beyond!
Essential Business Legals I want to talk to you about four essential business legals Solopreneurs at Startups need. It's not a luxury. You can't just put it off; it's something that will provide foundational support for your business in terms of clients working well...
How To Cover Yourself Legally When Promoting Your Business On Social Media
When you are sharing a special promotion for your business on a platform like Facebook or Instagram, the responsibilities that come with it are similar to when you engage customers in your services through the normal channels like your website or over the phone....
What Is A Jurisdiction And Why You Need To Know Yours
So what is a jurisdiction? Jurisdiction appears in almost every contract or terms and conditions I draft for my clients. I find that people often don’t understand what it means and how it affects dispute resolutions for your business. Jurisdiction refers to the reach...
Managing Fears In Business With Well Drafted Legal Contracts
If you're a solopreneur, then managing fear in business is something you do on a daily basis. There are two main fears that come up for solopreneurs frequently that can be managed quite effectively with well-crafted legals. Starting your business, creating products...
Do You Need Legals For Your Business Facebook Page?
Facebook Page Legals? One of the most commonly asked questions I get from business owners is whether or not you still need legals if you’re only using Facebook to run your business. Watch the video below for the answer, and how to navigate this issue as a start-up...
5 Sure-fire Ways To Stand Up For Yourself In Business
Stand up for yourself and carry on. Business, especially your own, can be a minefield of challenges. All business come across challenges sooner or later during their operation. Difficult clients, unreliable suppliers are just a few of those challenges. Just the...
What Is Self-Advocacy In Business?
What Is Self-Advocacy? Self-advocacy is a passion of mine and an important aspect of my work. I love working with my clients and help them learn what is self-advocacy and how they can be a better advocate for themselves, in the context of their business. Every time I...
FAQ: Do I Really Need Website Legals?
Short answer: YES! Picture this... Your website is ready to go and your launch is planned out for your new business. All the hard work you have put into it is finally turning into what a business ready to soar looks like. Your feeling good, confident and generally...
4 Key Things To Consider When Negotiating Contract Terms As A Freelancer
If you are doing any type of freelance work, or working as an independent contractor, I highly recommend having a freelance contract in place with any client. When you have had an informal conversation with someone about freelance or contract work that you are going...
Why start-ups struggle to define boundaries in their business
Boundaries are a big game changer in business. When you know what you are prepared to do, and importantly what you are not prepared to put up with, you start to feel confident to put those rules and regulations out there for your clients (current and potential) to...
9 Self-Advocacy Tips for Freelancers
New to freelancing, or looking to develop your self-advocacy? Freelancing or embracing the self-employed lifestyle where you are offering your expertise to multiple clients is an exciting change of direction when you choose to do it. It’s a big and often welcome...
The key reasons why website legals are important for any business owner
You have a website for your business right? In the video below I talk about the key reasons why website legals are important for any business owner - including start-ups! The main concerns that a good set of Website Legals (ie Terms of Use and Privacy Policy) cover...
Why health & well-being practitioners need website policies
An apple a day keeps the doctor away BUT what if apples make you sick! Are you a yoga teacher or a health & wellbeing provider AND providing services or information online? All health & wellbeing practitioners - this video is to help you understand why you...
February 22 the Privacy Amendment (Notifiable Data Breaches) Act 2017 comes into full effect
February 22 is an important date for start-ups and small business owners, it is the date that the Privacy Amendment (Notifiable Data Breaches) Act 2017 comes into full effect. Okay, so what does that mean for you and your business? Basically, this Act applies to you...
When can ‘No Refund’ apply to a sale of a product or service
In this video I talk about the old chestnut: When can "no refund will be offered" apply to a sale of a product or service on your website? What does Australian Consumer law say about "no refunds"? What are the Consumer Guarantees? What have they got to do with...
5 Important Reasons Why Yoga Teachers Require Website Policies
Why Yoga Teachers Require Website Policies Recently I had a conversation with a Yoga Teacher who provided classes at her studio. She really had her mind set on a few things: “I don’t need to have Terms of Use, a Disclaimer or a Privacy Policy on my website because I...
8 Reasons To Have A Contract When You Freelance
If you work for yourself and you have multiple clients, then you are a freelancer. But do you implement a contract when you freelance? It’s a great feeling being the boss in your own business and when you start freelancing you pretty much wing it. You take what work...
9 Authentic Things I’ve Found To Be True About Entrepreneurs
After helping over 320 entrepreneurs and micro-businesses with business legals here the 9 authentic things I've found to be true about entrepreneurs: 1. Show Your Ideal Client, Who You Are To stand out from the online presence of numerous entrepreneurs doing similar...
Startups and Trademarks
Are you in the start-up stage of your business and concerned about whether to trademark your logo or business name? It's often a concern that someone might take your business name or product idea right out from underneath you. And, it happens more than you think....
Aligning Business Terms and Conditions to your Marketing Messaging
Your Business Terms and Conditions and your Marketing Messaging are more connected than you realise! Think about your marketing messaging and your target market or ideal client. In compelling copy, you are speaking to your client about: the problem you solve, how your...
5 Tips For Starting Your Business As A Solopreneur
Starting Your Business A common question that I am asked, and one that pops up when people are first starting out on their entrepreneurial journey, is what 5 things should I do when first starting my business? There are so many aspects to starting your business, from...
5 key things you need to know about crafting Terms & Conditions for your business
There's a difference between commercial law and what I do. The reason I say there's a difference between commercial law and startup business law and advocacy is because the needs are different. I work exclusively with solopreneurs and startups. The reason I do this...
Legals You Need to Consider for Your Ideal Client
Who is your ideal client? Today we talk about the notion of an ideal client and the importance of Business Terms and Conditions. You can educate your clients about how to become your ideal client. By that I mean, when you are onboarding a client, communicate with them...
Legals you Need to Consider Before Signing Up For An Online Course – Part 2
In Part 1, I delved into what legals you should look for when signing up for an online course, and how to know it is legitimate. If you missed Part 1 of this series, you are welcome to watch it first here. Today, in Part 2, I am talking to you about the Terms and...
Legals You Need to Consider Before Signing Up For An Online Course – Part 1
Online courses can be expensive and lengthy - that's why Online Course Legals are critical! Today I am talking to you about what to look for when you sign up for an online course, and how to know it is legitimate. When you sign up for a course, there a couple of...
Legal Agreements for your Clients and Paying Attention to the Services Section
Client Service Agreements for Service Providers - coaches, consultants, therapists and photographers!!! Client Service Agreements - Today I am talking about the need to pay attention to the Services section of your Client Agreement or Business Terms and conditions. A...
Legals You Need When Hiring People
Thinking about hiring people? Hiring people requires Self Advocacy as a client! Today I am talking about what you can do as a client, to get the best outcome for yourself when you engage someone's services. Whenever you are engaging someone's services, or making a...
Legals You Need For A Successful Business Collaboration
Are you thinking about collaborating in business? Today I wanted to share the legal policies and agreements you need to have in place to make that business collaboration a successful one - regardless of profit outcome. What do I mean by that? Well basically it's much...
Cutting Through the Overwhelm of Business Start-up: Legal Fundamentals
Recently I participated in a video summit called "Cutting Through the Overwhelm of Business Start-up". The summit was hosted by Tracy Cox from Different Drummer Coaching. The summit was held to help start-up business owners with the information they need to find their...
Legals For When You Are Working From Home
How do you legally protect yourself when working from home? Today I am talking about working from home and where that sits in the scheme of professionalism, self advocacy and choosing your life! You really must be prepared for feedback when clients aren't prepared...
Legal Terms & Conditions for Client On-Boarding in your Business
What is your client on-boarding process and associated business legals? Today I am talking about client on-boarding, and what business legals you should consider to ensure expectations are set early in the relationship. Client on-boarding can be a seamless process...
Must-Have Website Legal Policies For Online Business & E-commerce
A stitch in time, saves nine. We have all heard this proverb but when it comes to your legal policies, this is the absolute truth. Legal issues definitely cost less to prevent than to solve. Previously I wrote about the 3 most important legal documents to have in...
3 Important Legal Documents You Need To Have BEFORE You Sell Online
Starting an online business means different things to different people, but legal documents are important nonetheless. To some it means being able to: Contribute to the income of the household or even becoming the breadwinner of the family; Spend time with kids,...
Business Collaboration: Things To Consider Before You Collaborate
If you are considering a business collaboration, make sure you have all of your ducks in a row first. Business Collaboration can bring the best of skill sets together. If you are a solopreneur, a collaboration will allow you to offer a wide range of services that can...
The Importance of Legally Protecting Yourself In Business
When you start out in business, the last thing you want to spend my money on is legal stuff, even though it's one of the most critical things you need to do to protect yourself. Good legal documents are important for many different reasons. They: Build credibility...
Mindfulness: An important step in creating legal content for your business
A popular topic for online entrepreneurs at the moment is LEGAL CONTENT. Content creation, content marketing, content strategy, content upgrades, blog content, social media content... and the list goes on, but i's all legal content... Any piece of writing, video,...
Crucial foundations for start-up business success
Laura & Shalini talk start-up business foundations I recently spoke with money mentor and profit pioneer, Laura Elkaslassy, on the crucial and critical foundations start-up business owners need to consider, but that they often overlook. We believe you need to have...
Things to consider BEFORE signing up for an online course
Online course and online program websites and landing pages often have fancy sales copy, pretty graphics, and an outcome that is depicted EXACTLY like what you've be wanting. The online course looks good; it feels good; you really want to do it.... BUT WAIT!!! Before...
5 mindset shifts needed to protect your business and help it thrive
Protect Your Business - Ensuring quality legals is ensuring longevity and protection for your business. If you are anything like me, you’ve crafted a beautiful business, you’re working hard on your marketing, you’re seeing clients, you’ve adopted a can-do mindset...
Will you or won’t you?
So you have completed your financial planning and it’s a good feeling right? Your financial planning process may have involved decisions and changes about your home loans and mortgages, new investments, selling of existing assets or investments, insurance policies,...
Why should I bother with website legals? (And how do I write them?)
Who has time for Website Legals? Your business is birthing, you have started marketing, and you are all over Facebook, Instagram, and your website (all of which are going to showcase your beautiful business to the world). You have spent bucketloads of time and angst...
How to be a better advocate for your business
I have been working in the world of client agreements intensively for the last 18 months. Each time a client contacts me to talk about their client agreement, we devote a session to what I call “THE STRUGGLE”: the recognition that we all need self-advocacy skills in...
4 reasons your client agreement is more than just a legal document
Although many business owners neglect them, a client agreement is a vital business tool for managing your business. A client agreement is much more than just a legal document - a good agreement is about gathering business intelligence so that you can refine your...
Three ways to make striking out on your own easier
A client came to me recently when she was thinking about leaving her full-time job to startup a business of her own. She had thought about it for a while—in fact, she had already tried to go into business once before, but had been too scared and worried to go for it....
Should I use Templates for Business Legals?
Templates for Business Legals - To Use, or Not To Use. That is the question. Often, when business owners need a client agreement or a website policy, their first instinct is to look online for a template, or to copy from another business. Client Agreements and your...
4 steps to Loving Your Legals
I have spent the last two weeks deeply considering and having lots of online and client conversations on the topic of LOVING YOUR LEGALS—an area that has been close to my heart for some time now. Recently, I presented an information-packed webinar called “Do I need...
Why some solopreneurs think client contracts are for the fairies
I have been chatting to fellow solopreneurs in recent weeks about this and that… and oh yes Client Contracts, Business Agreements and Legals. Our businesses, mine and theirs, are about doing what we love, engagement with our tribe, aligning our values with practice –...
What the hell is a lawyer doing hanging out with creatives?!
My brother and I are both lawyers, and we’re good ones too. We both come from good hardworking migrant stock – our children are first generation Australians. He and I are off the boat! My dream is to have a hard hitting high profile law firm in Pitt St in Sydney. ...