STAYING OUT OF COURT

摘要

It's one thing to watch trials on TV or in the movies; it's quite another to be an active participant in a legal battle. For one thing, juries are unpredict able. If your business gets sued, it may be socked with a huge verdict. Also, with the time, energy, and money it takes to defend a case, even if you win you may lose. Both sides can look forward to long sessions in a lawyer's office with pre-trial discovery, answering lengthy written questions, or being cross-examined at a deposition. And you'll be surprised how distracted you are from normal business duties. It's impossible to avoid all lawsuits, but with a bit of planning, your business can come close. Here's a 12-point strategy.