Food and Agricultural Law Blog

In 2025, women- and minority-owned businesses continue to grow at a record pace in Illinois—and a clear trend is emerging: many of these entrepreneurs are choosing the Limited Liability Company (LLC) structure to launch or scale their businesses. Below, we share, “Why More Women and Minority Entrepreneurs in Illinois Are Choosing LLCs in 2025. But why are LLCs the go-to ... Read More The post Why More Women and Minority Entrepreneurs in Illinois Are Choosing LLCs in 2025 appeared first on Rincker Law, PLLC.

Removing a business partner is one of the most delicate legal issues a business owner can face. In Illinois, it’s not as simple as voting someone out or changing the locks. If done incorrectly, you could face a costly lawsuit, damage your business’s reputation, and trigger major tax or liability consequences. But when handled properly—and legally—you can protect your business ... Read More The post How to Legally Remove a Business Partner in Illinois Without Getting Sued appeared first on Rincker Law, PLLC.

If you’re launching a new business, product line, or creative venture, one of the first things you’ll likely think about is the name—your brand identity. But before you start using a name, logo, or slogan publicly, it’s essential to ask: Should I conduct a trademark search first? The short answer is yes. A trademark search is one of the most ... Read More The post Ask Sam: Should I Conduct a Trademark Search Before Using My Trademark? appeared first on Rincker Law, PLLC.

When building a brand, securing a trademark is a critical step, but understanding how long that protection lasts is just as important. Unlike patents or copyrights, trademarks can potentially last forever. However, that protection isn’t automatic or permanent. To keep a trademark active, owners must follow specific legal steps and continue using the mark in commerce. The Basics: Federal Trademark ... Read More The post Ask Sam: How Long Does a Trademark Last? appeared first on Rincker Law, PLLC.

Have a catchy phrase that you want to protect? Whether you’re a small business owner, food producer, or ag entrepreneur, you might be wondering: Can I trademark a catchphrase? The short answer is yes, as long as it meets certain criteria. Here’s what you need to know if you want to legally protect your catchphrase and use it as a ... Read More The post Ask Sam: Can I Trademark a Catchphrase? appeared first on Rincker Law, PLLC.