Small

Small Businesses Brace for Change: New Laws Set to Take Effect on October 1

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A series of new laws will take effect on October 1, affecting small businesses across the country. These changes aim to address various operational, financial, and regulatory aspects that can have significant implications for entrepreneurs and their enterprises. Among the key changes is an increase in the minimum wage for certain workers, which has been a long-standing issue for small business owners. As labor costs rise, many small businesses may need to reassess their budgetary allocations and staffing strategies. This shift is part of a broader national conversation around income equality and fair labor practices. … Read more

Could Gavel’s New AI Tool Be the Catalyst for Small Law’s Evolution Ahead of Big Law?

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Los Angeles — A legal tech company is stirring up conversations about the future of small law firms with the launch of a new artificial intelligence product. Gavel, a company based in Los Angeles, has introduced Exec, a generative AI assistant designed for integration into Microsoft Word, aimed specifically at making advanced legal technology accessible for smaller firms. Gavel Exec is already being put to the test by various law practices, which have offered feedback to enhance its effectiveness and establish benchmarks. The tool is intended to automate numerous legal tasks, including contract reviews and … Read more

Unlocking Efficiency: How AI Can Revolutionize Workflow for Solo and Small Law Firms

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In Chicago, Illinois, the legal landscape presents a stark contrast in operational efficiency among various law firms. Solo practitioners and small firms tend to have significantly lower utilization rates, clocking in at 27 and 32 percent, respectively. In comparison, mid-sized law firms achieve utilization levels around 50 percent. The disparity can largely be attributed to the multiple roles that professionals in smaller firms undertake, which include everything from client acquisition to administrative duties. According to legal industry expert Lenon, the burden of managing these diverse tasks could be alleviated through the implementation of artificial intelligence. … Read more

Senator Dahms Champions Bipartisan Revisions to Minnesota’s Earned Sick and Safe Time Law, Easing Burdens on Small Businesses

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REDWOOD FALLS, Minn. — A bipartisan coalition of lawmakers has advanced modifications to Minnesota’s Earned Sick and Safe Time (ESST) law, addressing concerns from small business owners and farmers. The legislation, known as Senate File 2300, was spearheaded by Senator Gary Dahms, a Republican from Redwood Falls, in response to challenges posed by the original law enacted by the Democratic majority in 2023. Initially, Minnesota’s ESST law mandated that all businesses, regardless of size, provide paid sick leave, with penalties of up to $10,000 for noncompliance. Although designed to benefit workers, the law has raised … Read more