Legal Articles and News

Several nearby Florida counties are reporting stabilized or decreased unemployment rates. Unemployed workers and recruiters are beginning to see an increase in available jobs. The Ocala Star Banner reported that “unemployment rates dropped 13.2 percent in Marion County”. The article also noted that Marion County had a lower unemployment rate than Hernando and Hendry counties as of February.

Specifically, growth appears to be in hospitality, transportation, education, and health care industries while the job market is not recovering as quickly in the construction and financial fields. Depending on their former positions with other companies, many employees may have non-compete clauses that have not yet lapsed.

When hiring new employees, employers need to ask candidates about any existing non-compete clauses and be aware of the ramifications of violating a non-compete clause. Violation of a non-compete clause can result in expensive litigation. In addition to the lower employment rate, the pool of available employees is decreasing. Experts are unsure whether this is due to relocations or other reasons. Some companies may wish to protect their interests by creating their own non-compete contracts for new employees to sign.

The Law Office of Knellinger & Associates has years of experience drafting, analyzing, litigating, and defending non-compete and confidentiality clauses and agreements. If you are thinking about creating a non-compete agreement or need help with an existing one, please contact our office.

The University of Florida was recently identified by the NCAA as once again having one of the most profitable athletic programs in the nation. While the University’s teams boast impressive records that attracted over one million fans last year, it is not just the enthusiasm and support of the fans that generate revenue. While football and men’s basketball are the top revenue producers, the financial success of the athletic program is attributed to strong business management by Athletic Director, Jeremy Foley.

When Foley first started his job as Athletic Director, the teams were not profitable and the University Athletic Association (UAA) was in dire straits financially. However, his on-the-job training taught him how to successfully run the program like a business and eventually expand it. He credits his success to hiring excellent coaches, negotiating lucrative contracts and expanding the athletic program facilities which contributes to the maintenance of high quality teams and mirrors their success.

In addition to the revenue earned by selling sports tickets, refreshments, and other items related to games during the various sports seasons, the Gators teams have lucrative contracts licensing their logo on clothing, souvenirs, and even furniture. The UAA also earns revenue from every bowl game in which the football team plays and anticipates earning $15 million in revenue as a result of other Southeastern Conference teams participating in bowl games. The UAA also has contracts with certain companies that pay for the privilege of the teams using their equipment and clothing.

Securing and negotiating lucrative contracts and hiring the right people is essential for every business, not just for athletic programs. The Law Office of Knellinger & Associates can help you protect your immediate and long-term interests by assisting you with negotiating beneficial contracts, such as employment contracts and partnership and licensing agreements. Contact us to find out how our business and intellectual property attorneys can help you with all of your business needs.

Local government and private businesses are coordinating their efforts to revitalize Gainesville. Three distinct areas, approximately 91 acres total, will be renovated. Innovation Square will be a multifunctional area that will combine the convenience of working, living and finding entertainment on Southwest Second Avenue. Another area located on Southeast Fourth Avenue will be called the Power Center. A third area, aptly named Depot Park, will include a renovated train station, a playground, a museum and other recreational activities.

Those involved in the projects and pushing for their advancement feel that the revitalization will take some time, but they are confident that it will become a reality. Other recent projects, such as new apartment buildings, the new Criminal Justice Center, and the growing downtown center of Santa Fe College, make these new projects look promising. Many private businesses, including Trimark Properties and Gateway Development services, support the projects and feel confident that the redevelopment of these areas will attract people who want to live, work and ultimately become consumers in these areas. The influx of businesses should increase available jobs in Gainesville and entice residents of all ages.

The revitalization is likely to increase the population in these areas of Gainesville, as well as improve commerce. If you are considering starting or purchasing a business in the Gainesville area, the redevelopment may help you to attract customers.  Our attorneys at the Law Office of Knellinger & Associates have years of experience in business law. Please contact us to find out how we can assist you with your business start-up or purchase.

Although Gainesville’s home sales are higher than last year, sellers are not benefiting from the increase. Many purchasers are snatching up foreclosed properties, resulting in lower average home sale prices. In other words, realtors are selling more homes in the current market, but profits are lower compared to comparable houses sold last January. The sales increase appears to be driven by investors as opposed to new home purchasers.

Realtors believe that potential homeowners are having trouble purchasing homes because of more stringent credit requirements. Despite reduced interest rates and lower purchase prices, it is difficult for first-time home buyers to pass financing requirements.  Additionally, investors who can pay cash are more attractive to sellers even if they must reduce the purchase price. A cash deal is more likely to result in a sale because financing is unnecessary.

On the bright side, investors are likely to renovate homes in the hopes of making profits later. Improving the condition of foreclosed homes may make them appealing to renters while increasing the value of the home. Eventually, this may lead to a sale.  As the homes are renovated and attract more attention, business is likely to grow.

If you are moving to the Gainesville area and plan to start a new business, the Law Office of Knellinger & Associates can help you achieve your goals.  Our legal professionals have years of experience assisting clients with business start-ups. We can help you to decide the best structure for your business, prepare any necessary contracts, and advise you regarding other issues that may contribute to the success of your new venture.