Blog
Legal Insights for Founders
Practical legal guides and articles on incorporation, shareholder agreements, privacy law, e-commerce, venture capital, and more — written by John Wires.
Vibe-Coding and Legal Risk: What Non-Technical Founders Miss
Over the last year, I've noticed a sharp shift in the types of calls I receive. More and more business owners are reaching out who aren't running traditional tech companies.
Minority Founders in a Series A, Careful
You're a founder. You've raised a Series A. The term sheet looks good. But buried in the details are provisions that could strip you of meaningful control.
Negotiating Founder Agreements
Usually, the articles of incorporation and company by-laws are not sufficient to protect the interests of cofounders and shareholders in a startup.
The Use of Holding Companies
In The Law for Founders, we explored the risks related to ensuring that your corporation is actually a separate legal entity from its founders.
Holding Bitcoin on Your Balance Sheet in Canada
A legal guide for Canadian companies considering holding Bitcoin or cryptocurrency on their corporate balance sheet.
Incorporating Subsidiaries in Canada
What foreign tech companies need to know about incorporating subsidiaries in Canada, from structure to compliance.
Crowdfunding: A New Era of Entrepreneurial Financing in Canada
Exploring the landscape of rewards-based crowdfunding and small business financing options available to Canadian entrepreneurs.
Founder and Shareholder Loans
Many early stage companies in Canada are self-financed, either with founder loans, or loans from friends and family.
Navigating Venture Capital and Private Equity for Canadian Founders
What Canadian founders need to know about raising venture capital and private equity, from term sheets to closing.
Convertible Loans
A convertible loan, also known as a convertible note, is a form of short-term debt that converts into equity during a future financing round.
Stock Option Plans
Employee stock options are a popular form of compensation among start-ups. Understanding how they work is essential for founders.
Tips and Tricks on How to Pick a Business Name
Choosing the right business name involves more than creativity. Here are practical tips to help you pick a name that works legally and commercially.
Choosing a Domain Name and Not Getting Sued
Choosing a business name that has a suitable domain name was becoming increasingly difficult. New domain extensions have changed the game.
Can you use a Competitor’s Trademark in Your Website’s Metatags?
Using a competitor’s trademark in your website’s metatags may seem like a clever SEO strategy, but it carries real legal risk.
Paying Instagram “Influencers” to Endorse Products Online
Social media endorsement deals are increasingly common, but the legal framework around influencer marketing is evolving rapidly.
The Digital Minute Book — Time to Convert?
At Wires Law we operate a paperless legal practice, which includes the management of corporate minute books in digital format.
12 Areas of Potential Liability for e-Commerce Businesses
E-commerce businesses face a wide range of legal risks. Understanding the key areas of exposure helps you protect your online business.
Tips on Picking a Domain Name and Avoiding Domain Name Disputes
Practical advice on choosing a domain name that avoids trademark conflicts and potential domain name dispute proceedings.
Does your Company Actually Own its Domain Name?
Many companies assume they own their domain name when in fact it may be registered to a founder, employee, or third-party provider.
Founder, Director and Officer Compensation in Crowdfunding Companies
How much should equity crowdfunding directors be paid? A look at compensation structures for founders and directors in crowdfunding companies.
Equity Crowdfunding Exemption Scheduled for Q1 2015 in Ontario
A panel discussion on crowdfunding and igniting entrepreneurship, with insights on the upcoming equity crowdfunding exemption in Ontario.
Online Marketplace To Sell Your Business
Exploring online marketplaces that connect business purchasers and sellers, making it easier to buy and sell businesses.
Digital Media Tax Credits
Ontario offers digital media tax credits that can significantly benefit tech companies. Understanding eligibility and application requirements is key.
The Sale of Baby Boomer Businesses
As baby boomers retire, a wave of business sales is creating opportunities for the next generation of entrepreneurs.
How to Sell a Business in Ontario
A practical guide to selling a business in Ontario, covering valuation, deal structure, due diligence and closing.
When is it Time for a Holding Company in Canada?
Understanding when and why Canadian business owners should consider setting up a holding company for tax planning and asset protection.
Deducting Legal Fees for Tax Purposes
Did you know you can deduct legal, accounting and other professional fees for tax purposes? Here is what business owners need to know.
SEC Opens Crowdfunding Invitation to Canadian Securities Regulators
The US Securities and Exchange Commission made its big announcement on equity crowdfunding, with implications for Canadian regulators.
Time for an Accountant? Consider Cloud Accounting
Cloud accounting solutions offer startups and small businesses an efficient, cost-effective way to manage their finances.
Should I Trade-mark It?
Deciding whether to register a trademark is an important step for any business. Here is what you need to consider.
Protecting Your Startup from Disputes with a Shareholder Agreement
Lawyers hear the same horror stories all the time. A shareholder agreement is your best defense against costly cofounder disputes.
How to Incorporate: Creating Different Share Classes
Why have different share classes? Understanding how to structure your corporation's share capital for flexibility and tax planning.
10 Areas of Website Liability & How to Create Terms and Conditions
Why have website terms and conditions? Understanding the key areas where your website faces legal liability.
How to Create a Privacy Policy
Why have a privacy policy? A practical guide to creating a compliant privacy policy for your Canadian business website.
Company By-laws in Ontario | What Are They & When Do You Need Them?
Company by-laws in Ontario govern the internal operations of your corporation. Understanding when and why you need them is essential.
5 Tips for Equity Crowdfunding Success (Once Its Legal)
Equity crowdfunding is coming. These five tips will help entrepreneurs position themselves for success when the regulations arrive.
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