Resources

For business owners in Northern Michigan, mergers and acquisitions (M&A) can represent exciting opportunities to grow, transition, or redefine a business. But they also introduce layers of legal complexity that, if overlooked, can derail a transaction or leave the parties exposed to serious liabilities. Whether you’re acquiring a competitor, preparing for succession, or joining forces with a strategic partner, a firm understanding of M&A legalities is essential to getting the deal done right.

For small business owners in Northern Michigan, the decision to offer employee benefits isn’t just about staying competitive in the labor market — it’s also about understanding a dense network of legal obligations that touch on both federal and state law. Employee benefits can be a powerful recruitment and retention tool, but if not managed carefully, they can also be a source of compliance headaches and legal exposure.

Tourism-based businesses must contend with a unique patchwork of legal requirements, from liquor licensing and accessibility compliance to local zoning and insurance coverage. Whether you’re launching a new venture or fine-tuning operations for the next busy season, understanding these legal fundamentals is critical.

Employment discrimination is a serious issue that can lead to legal liability, financial losses, and reputational harm for businesses. In Michigan, both federal and state laws protect employees from discrimination based on various protected characteristics. Business owners must understand these laws to create a fair and inclusive workplace while ensuring compliance with legal requirements.

Open source software has transformed the way businesses operate, providing access to powerful tools at little to no cost. For Michigan businesses, especially startups and small enterprises, open source software can be a cost-effective solution for development, data management, and digital infrastructure. However, while open source software offers many advantages, it also comes with legal risks that business owners must navigate.

Welcome to the latest edition of The Quarterly Compass, your go-to legal and business newsletter from True North Legal Group. In this issue: major Michigan policy shifts affecting small businesses, an inside look at local favorite Sugar 2 Salt, key updates to H-1B visa rules, and a simple analog planning habit that can help you refocus each quarter. Let’s navigate the road ahead—together.

Crowdfunding has revolutionized how small businesses and entrepreneurs raise capital. In Michigan, state-specific legislation has created new opportunities for businesses to access funding from a broader pool of investors. However, crowdfunding is subject to complex state and federal regulations, and failing to comply can result in legal and financial consequences.

In today's digital age, data privacy has become a critical concern for businesses of all sizes. As a small business owner in Michigan, understanding and complying with data privacy laws is not just a legal obligation but also a crucial aspect of building trust with your customers and protecting your business from potential liabilities. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the complex landscape of data privacy laws, with a focus on their implications for Michigan small businesses.

In today’s interconnected global economy, small businesses in Michigan are increasingly affected by international trade policies and tariffs. These government-imposed measures influence the flow of goods and services between countries, impacting the costs, competitiveness, and overall operations of small businesses.

In the competitive business landscape of Northern Michigan, protecting your company's confidential information and trade secrets is paramount. One of the most effective tools for safeguarding sensitive data is the Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA). This comprehensive guide will explore the crucial role of NDAs in protecting business secrets, their key components, and best practices for implementation, with a focus on Michigan law.

As a small business owner in Northern Michigan, you're likely focused on growing your company, serving your customers, and making a positive impact in your community. However, one crucial aspect of running a successful business that often gets overlooked is understanding and complying with employment laws. At True North Legal Group, we recognize the challenges faced by entrepreneurs and small business owners when it comes to navigating the complex landscape of employment regulations. That's why we've put together this comprehensive guide to help you understand the key aspects of Michigan employment law and best practices for managing your workforce.

Discover how nonprofits in Northern Michigan can build trust and stay compliant with legal and ethical standards. This guide offers key insights on financial transparency, donor relations, governance, and more. Learn how True North Legal Group’s affordable legal services can support your nonprofit’s commitment to transparency and long-term success.

Selling a business in Northern Michigan is a major financial milestone, but the process can be challenging. True North Legal Group offers expert legal guidance throughout every step— from business valuation and due diligence to negotiations and post-sale obligations. With our flat-fee structure, you’ll receive cost-effective support to ensure a smooth, successful sale and maximize your business's value.

Running a small business is an exciting and rewarding endeavor, but it also comes with risks and challenges that demand careful attention. For entrepreneurs in Northern Michigan, addressing potential liabilities and safeguarding assets is critical to maintaining long-term business success. At True North Legal Group, we understand the unique needs of small businesses and provide customized legal solutions to help mitigate risks.

This blog explores essential aspects of small business risk management, including liability protection, strategic planning, insurance coverage, and asset protection. We also highlight how True North Legal Group’s subscription-based pricing model supports small business owners by offering continuous access to expert legal guidance.

When it comes to criminal investigations in Michigan, understanding the process can be critical. Knowing what to expect and how to protect your rights can make a significant difference if you find yourself or a loved one involved in such a situation.

As nonprofit leaders in Traverse City and Northern Michigan, your mission-driven work significantly impacts our communities. However, managing a nonprofit organization involves more than just achieving your mission; it also requires diligent attention to compliance and reporting requirements. Understanding these obligations ensures your nonprofit remains in good standing with federal and state authorities, maintains donor trust, and continues to serve the community effectively.

In today's digital age, e-commerce has transformed how businesses operate, offering unprecedented opportunities for entrepreneurs and small business owners in Traverse City and Northern Michigan However, with great opportunity comes great responsibility, particularly in understanding and adhering to the legal requirements governing online businesses. Navigating the complexities of e-commerce legal compliance can be daunting, but it's essential for protecting your business, building customer trust, and ensuring long-term success.

In the bustling world of entrepreneurship and small business, agreements and promises form the bedrock of operations. From partnerships and vendor agreements to employment terms and client deals, contracts are the unseen glue that holds these myriad relationships together. While a handshake might signify trust, a well-drafted contract ensures clarity, legal protection, and peace of mind.

Military veterans bring a wealth of skills, discipline, and experience to the workforce, making them valuable assets to any organization. However, transitioning from military service to civilian employment can present unique challenges. It is crucial for employers to understand veteran employment rights, including those under the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA), and to address veteran employment discrimination concerns.

At True North Legal Group, we specialize in providing comprehensive legal services to help small business owners in Northern Michigan develop effective succession plans, exit strategies, and business continuity plans. This blog will guide you through the essentials of business succession planning and how our expertise can benefit you.

In today's digital age, the internet serves as both a platform for free expression and a breeding ground for harmful behavior.  Cyberbullying and online harassment have become pervasive issues, impacting individuals of all ages and backgrounds.

As a legal team focused on protecting civil rights in Northern Michigan, True North Legal Group understands the devastating effects online harassment can have on individuals, businesses, and communities.

In this blog post, we'll explore how a dedicated legal team can play a crucial role in combating cyberbullying and online harassment, protecting victims' rights, and promoting accountability in the digital realm.

As a legal team dedicated to nonprofit success in Northern Michigan, True North Legal Group has had the privilege of working with numerous organizations to develop effective fundraising strategies tailored to their unique needs and circumstances.  In this blog post, we'll explore a range of proven fundraising strategies that small nonprofits can leverage to unlock success and make a meaningful impact in their communities.

True North Legal Group is built on a foundation of core values, perhaps the most important of which is a deep-seeded desire to support our amazing community of Northern Michigan.  One way in which we do that every day is fighting for the rights of individuals with disabilities in Traverse City and beyond. This blog post aims to shed light on the importance of disability rights, the laws that protect them in Northern Michigan, and how a capable civil rights attorney can play a crucial role in ensuring justice and accessibility for all.

Josh Traeger, the Founding Attorney of True North Legal Group, has been selected for promotion to Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Air Force Reserves.

Stay informed, inspired, and prepared for growth. 'The Quarterly Compass' brings you legal updates, community highlights, business insights, and actionable strategies tailored for Northern Michigan's professionals. In this issue: key takeaways from the Corporate Transparency Act, a spotlight on Megan Gilger’s eco-driven Perma Studio, and the evolving legal landscape of generative AI. Let's chart the course together.

Nonprofit organizations play a vital role in the Northern Michigan community, and they often rely on grants to fund their essential operations and programs.  The team at True North Legal Group frequently assists our nonprofit clients in navigating the legal complexities associated with grant funding.  Effective grant management is crucial not only for financial accountability but also for ensuring compliance with legal requirements that govern the use of grant funds.

The team at True North Legal Group is intimately familiar with the criminal justice process in Northern Michigan. Our approach to criminal defense services is to believe that every case should go to trial. When you are facing criminal charges, you have a lot on the line, and we believe the best attorneys fight for you and work tirelessly to protect your rights.

Uncover the juvenile criminal justice system in Northern Michigan with True North Legal Group. This guide covers the entire process from arrest to expungement, focusing on the strategic legal defense for juvenile offenders.

Discover your legal rights and protections against wrongful termination in Northern Michigan. Learn how employment laws safeguard you and what steps you can take if you've been unlawfully dismissed.

Unlock the secrets to selecting the perfect attorney in Traverse City with our in-depth guide. From understanding the nuances of legal expertise to navigating fee structures, this comprehensive resource provides all you need to make an informed choice.

Facing a criminal investigation can be a daunting experience. Whether you are the target of an investigation or a witness, it is crucial to understand your legal rights to protect yourself and ensure a fair process. In Northern Michigan, individuals have certain rights guaranteed by the United States Constitution and state law.

A fundamental belief that we hold at True North Legal Group is that every citizen of Northern Michigan is entitled to fair, safe, and gainful employment.  We fight for the workers of Northern Michigan, because we believe that satisfied employees lead to stronger communities.

The world of nonprofits is a vibrant space filled with individuals passionate about making a difference. From charitable endeavors to community initiatives, these organizations are often the backbone of social change in Northern Michigan. However, embarking on the journey of creating and managing a nonprofit is a complex process that requires careful navigation through legal landscapes and regulatory frameworks.

The attorneys at True North Legal Group work hard every day in many different areas of the law – criminal, small business, nonprofit, and so on.  But some of our most rewarding work comes from helping military veterans in Northern Michigan get the benefits they deserve.

Military veterans should be recognized and honored for their service. They should not struggle with legal problems. The team at True North Legal Group knows that. Our firm was founded by Josh Traeger, a decorated military veteran who himself faced the legal challenges that veterans across Northern Michigan face every day.

If you are facing criminal charges in Northern Michigan, it can be a very scary time. Your job, your future, and your freedom are on the line. Choosing the right attorney to defend you is of critical importance.

At True North Legal Group, we say it all the time – we are a “community-centered law practice.” Community is at the core of everything we do, from taking care of clients, to developing our business, to volunteering in our neighborhoods. 

Greetings from Traverse City! I am excited to announce the launch of True North Legal Group. TNLG is a business that I have been developing for almost a year now. I am excited to finally open our doors and begin serving the people of Northern Michigan.