Recent Blog Posts
SB 1286 Expands Rosenthal Act to Cover Commercial Debt, Provides New Protections for Small Business Debtors
On September 24, 2024, California enacted Senate Bill 1286, a transformative update to the Rosenthal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (RFDCPA), bringing robust consumer protections into the realm of commercial debt collection. The key change to the law, effective as of July 1, 2025, is that individuals who take on commercial debt or personally guarantee… Read More »
New Law Blocks Medical Debt From Appearing on or Affecting Credit Scores in California
A new law went into effect this year, promising to reshape how medical debt is treated in credit reporting. Medical debt continues to be the leading type of debt contributing to bankruptcy filings in California, and while this law does not offer direct relief to consumers struggling to pay their medical bills, it provides significant… Read More »
What Does the Bankruptcy Trustee Do?
When you file for bankruptcy, one of the key persons who becomes involved in your case is the bankruptcy trustee. Many individuals are unfamiliar with the trustee’s role and may wonder whether the trustee is working on their behalf, for their creditors, or the court. Understanding what the bankruptcy trustee does is essential to preparing… Read More »
Student Loan Collections to Restart, Starting Now
During his commencement address to the graduating class of UC Law School San Francisco earlier this month, California Supreme Court Associate Justice Goodwin Liu made a lighthearted reference to recent efforts of the current presidential administration to dismantle the Department of Education, joking that there is no one left at the Department to collect on… Read More »
What Does the Buyer’s Agent Do in a Real Estate Transaction?
Purchasing a home is one of the biggest financial decisions most people will ever make. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned homeowner, navigating a residential real estate transaction in Ventura County can be intimidating, and rightly so. If you don’t understand the process well, you could make mistakes that cost you thousands or… Read More »
Court of Appeals Rules in Favor of Bankruptcy Filers Discharging Debt Due to Social Security Overpayments
A recent decision by the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals represents a major victory for Social Security recipients who received overpayments which then became a debt owed to the government. The court in its ruling made it clear that such debts are dischargeable in bankruptcy, providing immense relief for government aid beneficiaries in need… Read More »
How a Real Estate Lawyer Can Help You Find the Property You Want to Develop
Ventura County is a prime location for real estate development, offering opportunities in Oxnard, Ventura, Camarillo, and the surrounding areas. Whether you’re a small business owner looking to expand or an investor seeking a lucrative development project, navigating the complexities of real estate transactions can be challenging. This is where a real estate lawyer plays… Read More »
Trademark Mistakes to Avoid
Trademarks are vital assets for many small businesses, helping to establish brand identity and distinguish products or services in a competitive marketplace. For business owners in Southern California, securing and maintaining trademarks can prevent costly disputes and protect your brand’s value. However, the trademark process is riddled with potential pitfalls. Below, we outline common trademark… Read More »
What to Expect When Filing Chapter 11 Bankruptcy
Filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy can be a strategic option for small business owners in Ventura County who need to restructure their debts while continuing operations. Unlike other bankruptcy chapters, Chapter 11 offers a path to reorganize and regain financial stability without liquidating assets. At Rounds & Sutter, LLP, our Ventura Chapter 11 bankruptcy lawyers… Read More »
Things Your Contract Should Include: A Guide for Ventura County Business Owners
Contracts are the foundation of any business agreement. They outline the expectations, obligations, and protections for all parties involved, reducing the risk of misunderstandings or disputes. Whether you are drafting a contract with a vendor, employee, or customer, ensuring it contains the essential components is crucial. For small business owners in Ventura County, a properly… Read More »