News & Resources

In today’s competitive labor market, Michigan businesses are increasingly turning to international talent to fill specialized roles and address workforce shortages. While hiring foreign employees can offer significant advantages, it also involves navigating a complex landscape of federal and state regulations. This guide provides Michigan employers with a practical roadmap to legally recruit and retain international workers, ensuring compliance and strategic alignment with business goals.

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.

Buying a business is a legal transaction at its core. It involves contracts, liabilities, employment law, regulatory compliance, and tax implications. And first-time buyers often don’t know what they don’t know. That’s where having the right legal guidance can make all the difference. At True North Legal Group, we’ve helped clients throughout Northern Michigan navigate business purchases both large and small. Below, we outline five of the most important legal considerations you need to keep in mind before buying your first business.

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.

A business's reputation is one of its most valuable assets. In an era where online reviews, social media posts, and news articles can spread instantly, negative statements—whether true or not—can significantly impact a company’s credibility and financial well-being. While businesses cannot control what others say, they can take legal steps to protect themselves from false and defamatory statements.

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.

The business world is evolving. More than ever, entrepreneurs are looking beyond profit and prioritizing social and environmental impact. This shift has led to a growing interest in benefit corporations, a corporate structure designed to balance financial success with public good.

Influencer marketing has transformed the advertising landscape, allowing businesses to connect with consumers through trusted voices on social media. From Instagram and TikTok to YouTube and beyond, influencers have become powerful brand advocates. However, as this form of marketing grows, so does regulatory scrutiny. Businesses in Michigan must navigate both federal and state laws to ensure compliance and avoid legal risks.

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.

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.