Did you know you can become a permanent United States resident by investing money into a US business? If you are interested in becoming a US permanent resident via EB-5, below are a few things you should now about EB-5 investment program:

What is the Qualifying Amount of Investment?

The immigrant investor must invest or be actively in the process of investing $1.000.000. The qualifying amount of investment is $500.000 for targeted employment areas which are rural areas and areas with high unemployment rate. A mere intent to invest or prospective investment arrangements without present commitment will not suffice.

What Form Must the Investment Take?

The investment must take the form of contribution of capital that has been placed at risk for the purpose of generating income. The USCIS rules define capital to include cash, cash equivalents, equipment, inventory, other tangible property, and indebtedness secured by assets owned by the investor. The required investment cannot be made in the form of a loan to the company. The foreign investor also has to show that the invested capital was obtained through lawful means.

Which Companies Qualify for Investment?

The qualifying investment must be in a new commercial enterprise. An enterprise established after November 29, 1990 is considered a new enterprise even if the investor did not participate in its establishment. When a person makes investment in a business established on or before November 29, 1990 the investment will qualify for E-B5 purposes if the investor establishes one of the following: (1) the investment will result in a substantial change in the business; or (2) the business will be restructured or reorganized.

What Role Shall the Investor Play in the Company?

The investor must be engaged in the management of the company where he invests. This can be done either through managerial control or through policy formulation. This requirement can be satisfied by becoming a corporate officer or being a member of the board of directors. Maintaining a purely passive role towards the investment cannot satisfy the requirement of USCIS rules.

What is the Job-Creation Requirement?

The enterprise must benefit the US economy by creating full-time jobs for at least 10 qualifying employees. There is an exception to this rule for troubled businesses where the investment does not have to create 10 new jobs but the investor has to show that the number of existing employees is or will be maintained at no less than the pre-investment level for at least two years.

Is there an Annual Cap on E-B visas?

There is an annual limit of 10000 E-B5 visas per year. Until now the annual E-B5 cap has never been reached.

When Does the Investor Get His Green Card?

The investor is initially granted conditional residence for two years. Prior to the expiration of two years the investor must file a petition requesting removal of the conditional basis of the residence. The investor must show that he still meets the conditions for participation in the program. Do you need help deciding on what steps to take next? A Glendale immigration lawyer at KAASS Law can help you out with any sort of legal assistance you require.

Business startups are gaining increased attention from possible investors and many opportunities are becoming available for startups with low funds looking to jump into the market. There are many different types of investments funds, before jumping the gun ask yourself which type of investment fund is the best fit for your business startup?

What is Considered an Investment Company?

There are different types of investment funds and vary based on the level of regulation, objectives, and type of authorized investments. The Investment Company Act (ICA) regulates investment companies. ICA defines an investment company as issuer of securities that is engaged, holds itself out as being engaged, or proposes to engage primarily in the business of investing, reinvesting or trading securities. Generally, investment companies under ICA are heavily regulated and must register with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Under the ICA, the main type of investment companies are so called mutual funds, which must register with SEC and comply with other requirements of ICA. In general, any legal entity that sells securities to raise capital, and then invests that capital in other company in which it is not a majority owner, is almost certainly an "investment company" under ICA. However, there are certain exceptions under ICA, in which case, under the ICA, the entity is not considered an investment company and is less heavily regulated.

What Are Hedge Funds?

A hedge fund is an investment vehicle that pools capital from a number of investors and invests in securities and other instruments. Generally, hedge funds share most, if not all, of the following characteristics:

• Private Nature – In almost all cases, a hedge fund is a private investment vehicle, meaning that it is typically not registered under federal or state securities laws.
• Smaller Size – Hedge funds generally are smaller in size than mutual funds, partly due to the limited universe of eligible investors.
• Greater Investment Flexibility – Hedge funds have greater flexibility in the investments they can make and generally are not constrained or restricted in their investment activities (other than by their own investment guidelines) by the diversification requirements applicable to mutual funds.

Registering a Hedge Fund:

In order to register a hedge fund under ICA it must fall under an exception of the act. ICA Section 3(c)(1) provides an exclusion from the 1940 Act for any fund that satisfies two requirements: (1) it must not be making or proposing to make a public offering of its securities; and (2) its outstanding securities must be beneficially owned by not more than 100 persons. Founders of hedge funds generally rely on this exception.

Hedge Fund Structure:

Hedge funds can be organized in a number of different structures and jurisdictions. Generally hedge funds are organized as limited partnerships or limited liability companies, which is preferable for tax purposes. Many parties are involved in the day-to-day operations of hedge funds, among which the most important is the Investment Adviser/General Partner. Overall management of a hedge fund, including decisions about portfolio investments, is typically the responsibility of either a general partner or a separate fund manager. Many hedge fund managers are registered as investment advisers under the U.S. Investment Advisers Act of 1940 (Advisers Act), although some exemptions from registration are available. For those interested in learning more can visit The California Hedge Fund Association which was founded to foster the growth and development of the hedge fund community in California.

Investment Advisers:

Advisers Act is the federal statute that regulates most investment advisers doing business in the United States. Generally, investment advisers must register under Advisers Act, unless an exception applies. Where a hedge fund manager is unable, or chooses not, to rely on a registration exemption, it must register as an investment adviser, either with the SEC or a state. Advisers whose activities are deemed to be more national in scope, that is, those with $100 million or more in assets under management, as well as those in states that do not regulate advisers, must register with, and will only be subject to the regulations of, the SEC. In general, investment advisers are responsible for recommending or selecting, based on discretionary authority, portfolio investments in accordance with their client's objectives and policies. Frequently, investment advisers place portfolio orders with broker-dealers and are responsible for ensuring best execution of client transactions. Even if investment advisers are not registered under Advisers Act, they are subject to a number of Advisers Act provisions, most notably the antifraud provisions and certain additional reporting requirements.

Reporting obligations and related requirements:

Although hedge funds do not need to register with SEC, hedge fund managers need to comply with a host of special reporting, disclosure, privacy and information-protection requirements. Many of these requirements are in addition to those imposed on registered fund managers by Advisers Act, and include regulatory reporting requirements, providing information to investors, privacy and information-protection requirements. Depending on investment activities, fund managers may be subject to record-keeping or reporting requirements of SEC and other regulatory authorities, such as the Federal Trade Commission and others. Fund managers investing in non U.S. securities also must be cognizant of any similar requirements under foreign laws and regulations that may apply.

Do Private Funds Invest in Non-Public Companies?

Private funds do not need to register with SEC if they fall under an exception of ICA. By structure and registration rules other private funds are similar to hedge funds. A common type of private funds are private equity funds. A private equity fund generally invests in non-public companies. Many variations of private equity funds exist, including venture capital, leveraged buy-out and mezzanine financing funds. Private equity fund, the fund manager typically seeks capital from a number of sophisticated or institutional investors in the form of "capital commitments," which are generally fairly substantial in size, such as $5 million or more from each investor. Unlike the typical hedge fund, which accepts additional investments from investors throughout the fund's life, a private equity fund is generally a closed-end vehicle, meaning that after one or more fundraising stages, or "closings", new investors are not accepted. Unlike hedge funds or registered funds, which usually invest mainly in liquid, publicly traded securities, a private equity fund typically acquires large blocks of privately placed, generally illiquid securities from issuing companies. A private equity fund's success depends upon its portfolio companies increasing in value, often substantially, after several years and the fund being able to dispose of its holdings.

Small Business Investment Companies:

Small business investment companies (SBIC) are federally licensed entities employing, in part, federal funds and are subject to broad regulatory control by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). A licensed SBIC is an incorporated entity, organized and chartered under state law solely for the purpose of supplying equity capital on long-term loans to small business concerns, providing consulting and advisory services, and investing funds not reasonably needed for current operations in various limited kinds of obligations. SBICs must only invest in small businesses.

What are the requirements to become a Small Business Investment Company?

In order to become a SBIC the entity must be licensed by the SBA. Prior to filing a license application, SBIC applicants must raise the greatest of the following three minimum capital requirements:

• The statutory minimum of $5 million.
• Any minimum amount stipulated in the applicant's own SBIC license application as required for an initial closing of the fund.
• Any minimum amount SBA determines is needed to ensure the applicant's viability.

Hedge funds are probably the least regulated investment funds. Hedge funds do not have to register with SEC, although investment advisers, who are generally the managers of the fund, might have to register with SEC. On the other side, hedge funds allow greater flexibility in investments which makes this investment vehicle even more attractive. Yes, you can call our business lawyers from KAASS Law at {meta.phoneFormatted} if you have any further questions or to comment on how great this blog was. This content is intended for educational purposes only.

10 Issues Business Startups and Small Businesses Face

Running a small business or starting an startup business is an exciting venture that can lead to the financial freedom simple employees work their whole lives to attain. However, with the great rewards come great risks that can lead us small business owners to financial failures. Below are Ten Issues Startups Businesses Face:

1. No Business Plan

Knowing what your business will be and how you will sell your products or services are not enough to keep it running. You need to have a business plan written out, including (but not limited to) the following:

• Your short and long term goals;
• The business' finances for labor, production equipment, etc.;
• Having one which outlines every detail will guide your business to the right path.
• Your target markets; and
• Marketing

2. Wrong Reasons

Starting a small business simply because you want to be rich can lead to an unfulfilling experience, where you will always be looking for schemes that can bring you fortune. Before you do, think first about your own interests and passions. Do you believe you can give something of value to people at large? Are you driven enough to overcome the many inevitable obstacles an entrepreneur will face?

3. Inefficient Management

Small business entrepreneurs usually come into their industries with little to no knowledge of handling the multiple facets of a business such as financial management, employee relations, advertising and other essential responsibilities. Educate yourself through short business and finance courses, or hire managers who have expertise in the fields where you are lacking.

4. Lack of Capital

Some entrepreneurs think they will be making profits for their beginning operation cycles, spending most (if not all) of their resources immediately, only to find out later that they will not have enough funds to start the succeeding cycle(s). Consider every possible cost (overhead, production, equipment, etc.) and save enough money that can be used for at least one fiscal year despite poor sales.

5. Bad Location

It is not enough to set up a store at a location with high human traffic or with a very cheap lease. Opening a restaurant near a school campus can seem like a good idea, but don't expect too many customers if the food is expensive and there are much cheaper alternatives around. You need to consider your target market and their habits, as well as the direct competition in the area. Don't be afraid of spending on prime location, as the increased rate of customers coming into your store and making a purchase will make up for the initial cost.

6. No Online Presence

In this age of high-speed information, people expect to find just about everything on the Internet with their computers and mobile devices. Not having a website or at least a social media page will render your business virtually invisible to a great majority of the world's population. You can hire professionals to create a website for you or put up the website yourself. Make accounts for your business on Facebook, Twitter and other leading social media platforms where your target market can usually be found.

7. Uncontrolled Growth

Growth is a good thing unless it is left unchecked and your generated revenue can't keep up with the expansion. If your business experiences great success, do not be overeager to spend your profits by immediately buying more equipment or opening up new stores. Stick to the strategies you have set so you can still grow without bankrupting the business.

8. Financial Neglect

Cash is the lifeblood of any business, and there will be no business once that runs out. Therefore, it is imperative that small business entrepreneurs practice strict financial record-keeping so that every penny is duly accounted for. Knowing exactly how much money is going in and out of your business will correctly guide every decision you make.

9. Lackluster Execution

Having a great business plan will amount to nothing if each objective is tackled with incompetence. Employees who are lazy, dull, bad-mannered and unmanageable will not just cut down on productivity, but will also have a negative effect on the work environment and customer/client relations. Follow strict hiring guidelines and subject your hires to rigorous training to ensure quality output from each one.

10. Poor Marketing

A small business needs to market its brand considering the tough competition it will face against more established businesses. You need to invest enough resources into promoting your products through the right channels. This is so your target market knows exactly that you can fulfill its needs. Online marketing is a must these days, but you should not ignore the physical reach of traditional marketing methods such as brochures, flyers and business cards. Ultimately, it is a matter of planning out your overall strategy, assessing your own strengths and weakness, and keeping a good eye on all of your resources - be it financial or human. Consider each of these possible pitfalls, and you can find your small business not just surviving, but thriving in this competitive world.

Business Startups: Proving Trademark Infringement in California

There are a few steps a trademark owner can take once discovered a competitor or a competitor offering similar goods or services uses a mark, such as a company logo, that is substantially similar to your trademark or service mark. Trademark infringement is the unauthorized use of a trademark or service mark. A mark that is substantially similar to your trademark may also be considered a trademark infringement. A trademark owner who believes its trade market or service mark is being infringed may file a civil action for trademark infringement. Generally, a trademark owner must present evidence that the similarities of the trademark or service mark can cause a likelihood of confusion to the average consumer. Specific factors are considered and weighted when courts determine the likelihood of confusion thus each trademark infringement action varies from case to case.

Supporting a Trademark Infringement Acton:

Trademark owner must prove:

• It owns a valid mark
• The mark has been properly registered with the USPTO;
• It has priority;
• The use of the mark or the similarities of the mark is likely to cause confusion to the average consumers.

It is a good idea to speak with a trademark or intellectual property attorney to gain a better understanding of your rights and remedies. A California trademark attorney can help explain the process and evaluate whether or not you have a solid case. If you are unable to hire or consult with an attorney, there are also a few immediate steps you may take if you discovered that there has been a trademark infringement:

Documenting Trademark Infringement:

• Gather any and all relevant or valuable information you can about the third-party;
• Try reaching out to the company or person who is using your trademark;
• Gather evidence, photos, and other types of evidence;
• Document and make copies of correspondence or letters exchanged between yourself and the third-party.

Trademark Cease and Desist Letter:

Absent of legal representation, you can also write a letter to the company or person requesting to stop the use of trademark activity. A cease and desist letter may cover a number of issues, including but not limited to:

• A description of trademark owner's rights;
• Write a brief description of the infringing activity;
• A request to the company to stop all current and future infringing activity;
• Advise the company what will result or the consequences that may occur if they fail to stop infringing activity.

What Happens if the Third-Party Failed to Stop Infringing Activity After I Sent Trademark Cease and Desist Letter?

If the infringing third party failed to cease and desist infringing activity, at this point it is recommended that you hire an intellectual property or Los Angeles business lawyer that specializes in trademark infringement in order to take appropriate legal action to protect your proprietary rights. KAASS Law may be able to provide you with legal assistance.

Unauthorized Use of Your Trademark on a Website:

• Document the name of the website;
• Document the web address;
• Document the type of industry the company is working in, if possible;
• Document the date and time you discovered that the third-party used your trademark;
• Take screen grabs every time you see it on the use website;
• Document the provided address or contact information as declared on the website.

E-commerce Website Selling Products Using Your Trademark without Your or Company Authorization:

• Document the date and time you discovered that the third-party used your trademark;
• Document the name of the website;
• Document the web address;
• Document the type of industry the company is working in, if possible;
• Document the kind of products the company is selling;
• Take screen grabs every time you see it on the use website;
• Take screen grabs of the products the company is selling;
• Document the price of the products;
• Document e address or contact information as declared on the website.

Company Offering a Service Using Your Trademark without Your or Company Authorization:

• Document the date and time you discovered that the third-party used your trademark;
• Document the name of the website;
• Document the web address;
• Document the kind of service or services the company is offering;
• Take screen grabs every time you see it on the use website;
• Document the price for their service, if available;
• Document the address or contact information as declared on the website.

Tech Company Developing Apps Using Your Trademark without Your Authorization:

• Document the date and time you discovered that the third-party used your trademark;
• Document the name of the company or app;
• Document the information found on the company's app store and or google play account;
• Take screen grabs of the app on app store or google play account;
• Document the address or contact information on the website or app store;
• Do some research on the web! the company selling the app has a website;
  • If website available: follow the steps listed in the E-commerce website selling products using your trademark without your authorization;
  • If website is unavailable do some research on the internet.

Hire a Trademark or Intellectual Property Lawyer:

• Seek advice from a IP lawyer specializing in trademark infringement;
• An attorney may help in recovering money damages from the third-party that used your trademark or intellectual property outside of court or;
• May even file a lawsuit against the third-party for trademark infringement.

First thing first, Be Cool and organize your thoughts. If you were injured in a automobile accident in Los Angeles, California, you may have the right to file a personal injury claim for monies against negligent parties. If you are hurt, you Must ERTH. E – Evidence Gather as much evidence as possible from the scene of the accident. People love pictures. Use that great camera on that expense cell phone and knock yourself out. R – Record Document, record, and note all financial and medical injuries and losses. Good idea to keep an ongoing journal log of the injuries and affects. Pain, Fatigue tenderness or any type of inconvenience or loss is fair game. Your medical records are extremely important, make sure to keep records of any and all visits to medical providers including hospitals and medical care professionals. Your employment records are very important as well. Make sure to note how much time, money, and opportunity you have lost as a result. T – TIME! Time is of the essence. Follow proper timely procedure to ensure the success and preservation of your injury claim. This can include but not limited to, seeking timely medical attention and filing a timely claim. Statutory time limitations exist for different types of personal injury claims. For example, a personal injury claim against a Government Entity must be formally filed within six (6) months from the date of injury; otherwise, your claim is lost. This is tricky, read our #MUST662 blog for more info here. H – Help Get professional assistance for god's sake. We do not pull our own teeth anymore so don't make this more painful than it is. Time and time again, clients trying to sort through the technicalities often face the ultimate consequence of losing their valued personal injury claim. Yes, you are right, this is a biased opinion coming from us. Thus, even if you do not contact our firm, make sure to get a consult with a experienced personal injury lawyer beforehand. Most of the time these cases are on a contingency fee and the lawyer(s) only make money if they win. The amount of value that an experienced personal injury law firms will add to your case, by no reservation, outweighs the portion of the recovery that will be paid. Hire a dedicated Glendale personal injury attorney that will aim for getting you get the highest possible settlement for your case. Yes, you can call our auto accident attorney in Glendale, CA, at {meta.phoneFormatted} if you have any further questions or to comment on how great this blog was.

Business Startups Seeking an Initial Public Offering

What is an Initial Public Offering "IPO"?

Most of us are familiar with the term IPO but few of us really understand what it means. An IPO is when a private company, for the first time in its history, offers shares of itself to investors and issues stock in exchange, at which time the company transforms into a public company. Thus, the term Initial Public Offering. Off course there are lots more technicalities but the jest is to raise capital. Most business startups seek to IPO at some time; however, in order to be ripe for an IPO there are many hurdles that the company must overcome. In essence, the company must substantiate that it is live, well, and profitable. At this time most companies IPO by approaching an investment bank to underwrite the process. An underwriter basically values the shares of the company and creates the medium to offer the shares to the public.

Does a Business Have to Comply With Specific Regulations?

There are different types of investment funds and vary based on the level of regulation, objectives, and type of authorized investments. The Investment Company Act (ICA) regulates investment companies. ICA defines an investment company as issuer of securities that is engaged, holds itself out as being engaged, or proposes to engage primarily in the business of investing, reinvesting or trading securities. Generally, investment companies under ICA are heavily regulated and must register with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Startups that are looking for investors or are seeking to provide an initial public offering may be subject to SEC regulations. It's imperative that business understand and comply with SEC, as well as other regulations. If you are in the process of or are interested in providing an initial public offering, request a consultation with a Los Angeles Business Startup Attorney. Our attorneys at KAASS Law will consult and inform you about the various regulations and steps you must take in order to fulfil your business' objective.

The Los Angeles Criminal Justice System Process

When you have been arrested for a criminal offense, whether you are facing charges for a violent crime, DUI, misdemeanor or a serious felony, it is imperative to understand the processes involved within the criminal justice system. First and foremost the process moves quickly, before you know it you could find yourself sitting in a cell wondering what happened. It's vital to seek advice from a Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer immediately, because it may greatly affect the outcome of your case. Our lawyers in Glendale, CA are dedicated to providing the highest quality legal representation for all of our clients.

What happens during the criminal justice process?

Many cases begin with an investigation upon your arrest. It is imperative to remember not to respond to any questions you are asked by any office or investigator without having an Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney present with you because you may expose yourself to a criminal charge if you make statements that may incriminate you. Remember silence is golden, as is the "K" in KAASS.

Can my charges get dropped or my case get dismissed if police officers don't follow arrest procedures?

Under the law, the arrest process must follow a specific process. In many cases if procedures are violated by an officer or investigator, our criminal defense attorneys can fight for a dismissal. Our Criminal Defense Attorneys will immediately review the procedures of which were taken upon your arrest and identify any errors made.

What happens during an arraignment?

During the arraignment process, you receive an arraignment "date" of which you must be present in front of the judge, during the arraignment hearing. This is where you are formally charged and a bail amount may be set during the arraignment hearing. Being represented by any attorney during the arraignment hearing because your attorney may be able to lower your bail or even release you on your own recognizance. Prior to entering your plea, you may discuss your options with your attorney before making any decisions. This will give you a chance to weigh out your options. It is important to discuss your options with an Los Angeles Criminal Defense attorney because if your case had the possibility for strong defense, and you plead guilty, you will be out of luck.

What happens during the pre-trial hearing?

During the pre-trial hearing, your attorney can file various motions to aid in dismissing your case or removing evidence. It is vital to allow a criminal defense attorney to review all the evidence in your case and file suitable motions as necessary. If you have a pending criminal charges against you call our office for a consultation. Our attorneys have an 99% success rate in dismissing first time misdemeanor offenders. Our Criminal Defense Attorneys service Los Angeles, Glendale, and San Bernardino-Riverside Metropolitan Area. Providing quality and aggressive representation for charges ranging from serious felonies to misdemeanors. Notable USC and Southwestern University School of Law alumni are board members of Criminal Law Section for the Beverly Hills Bar Association and members of the Criminal Courts Bar Association. Our Criminal Defense Attorneys have successfully conducted trials in both state and federal court.

Suing the City, County, or State for Injuries Due to Bus Accident

Can you sue the government or city if you were involved in an auto-bus accident? Can a passenger on the bus that sustained injuries and damages sue the bus driver? Depending on a number of factors, you may be able to file a law suit against the responsible entity. However, if you were involved in an accident involving a public transportation vehicle, such as the Los Angeles Metro or Los Angeles Fire Department, it is vital that you contact a personal injury attorney that specializes in government tort claims because due to special laws that apply to government bodies and employees. If you were involved in an accident with a public transportation vehicle, call KAASS Law for a consultation with a personal injury lawyer specializing in government torts. Below are a few steps you take if you were the other car(s) that was/were involved in the accident.

Check on Your Fellow Passengers

If you have passengers make sure you check to see if anyone needs immediate medical attention.If anyone is injured it's imperative that you wait for emergency personal to tend to injured passengers. Depending on the severity of the accident it is important to try to not move anyone because this might aggravate their injuries

Call the Police

If there is significant property damage, physical injury, or death call the police. If injuries are reported tell the office to write a police report and get the responding officer's name, badge number, and what bureau the officer is employed with.

Laws Regarding Public Transportation Safety

Like most car accident cases parties will have to prove who the at-fault driver was. Public transportation companies are subjected to "common carrier" law in some states. "Common carrier" law refers to the higher or highest degree of care that public transportation companies have to provide for their customers. Trolleys, trains, buses, taxis, and even limousines are subject to the "common carrier" law meaning they have a higher duty to act reasonably. Further, if the public transportation driver was found at fault there are special laws and rules that apply to government entities. If the driver/employee of public transportation is found negligence, you can file a claim or sue the city, county or state responsible for overseeing public transportation activities under Government Tort laws. For instance, the if the accident involved the Los Angeles Metro the responding entity would most likely be the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority.

Statute of Limitations: The #Must662 Rule

Six months deadline to properly notify the proper entity overseeing that specific public transportation/bus, in writing of the precise circumstances of your accident. You may have to file a special form provided by the responsible government agency. If you fail to file a claim with the correct entity within the 6-month statue, you may lose your chances of filing a lawsuit If you properly filed your claim and your claim was denied, it is required by law that you are put on notice of your legal rights regarding the 6-month statute of limitation to file lawsuit for personal injuries and damages sustained. If you have not heard from or unsure about the status of your claim, you may still have 2 years to file a lawsuit against the government entity. If you are unsure if you have a claim, call KAASS Law at {meta.phoneFormatted} for a consultation.

Injuries to the neck, resulting from snapping or jerkin are known as "whiplash". Whiplash describes a range of neck injury ‘soft tissue' damages, which is a common result of rear-end accidents. In a rear-end accident, the impact forces the driver's and passengers' bodies to be thrown forward. At the same time, their heads stay in place, causing the neck to suddenly extended, which follows a whip-like motion.

What Type of Accidents Can Cause Whiplash?

While whiplash and any other types of neck injuries generally occur in rear-end auto accidents, neck injuries and whiplash injuries can also result from different types of accidents and personal injury matters as well. Some types of accidents that may cause whiplash or neck injuries are:

• Car and truck accidents that don't necessarily involve a rear-end impact
• Slip and fall accidents
• Sport-related accidents
• Premises liability
• Motorcycle accidents
• Train accidents
• Bus accidents
• Jet ski accidents
• Pedestrian accidents
• Bicycle accidents
• Rear-end semi-truck accidents

Can You Sustain a Whiplash Injury From a Low Impact Accident?

Many mistakenly believe that whiplash can only occur in high-speed accidents. In fact, whiplash is commonly caused by low-speed, low-impact, rear-end auto accidents. Another misconception is that whiplash is a minor injury. However, many medical experts suggest that soft tissue injuries can be severe and have long-term affects if left untreated. It is recommended following an accident, one seeks medical attention or a chiropractor in Los Angeles as soon as possible. If left untreated, it is possible that neck injuries can have serious consequences and cause widespread health problems.

What Are Common Factors that May Cause Whiplash:

• Position of the driver or passenger(s)' head at the time of impact;
• Individuals seating position, height
• Position of seat
• Comparative size and mass of the vehicles involved in the accident.

What Are the Common Signs or Symptoms of Whiplash:

• Stiffness in the neck
• Neck pain
• Trouble turning your head (limited range of motion)
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Blurred vision
• Shoulder pain
• Back pain
• Spinal injury
• Cognitive or psychological difficulties.
• Any strange sensations, such as tingling or prickling
• Trouble sleeping and feeling fatigue

Auto Accident Attorney

If you were involved in an auto accident, motorcycle accident, pedestrian accident, bicycle accident, or any other personal injury matter, call or contact our personal injury attorneys for a consultation. Our Glendale personal injury attorney at KAASS Law will review your case and answers any questions you may have.

California Startup Seeking to Hire Foreign Employee on H-1B Visa

What should you know about H-1B visa?

Whether you are a foreign citizen willing to work in the US or an US employer that wants to hire a foreign employee, below are a number of questions our business startup attorneys encounter regarding H-1B visa:

What is an H-1B visa?

H-1B visa allows US employers to hire foreign employees on a temporary basis. Please keep in mind that H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa and does not bring to Green Card unless the employer files separate employment based petition for the employee during his H-1B stay.

Who can qualify for an H-1B Visa?

The H-1B category is limited to workers coming to US to perform services in a specialty occupation. A specialty occupation is an occupation that requires attainment of a bachelor's or higher degree in the specific specialty as a minimum requirement for entry into the occupation in US.

Is there an annual limit?

The annual H-1B cap is set at 65,000. There are additional 20,000 spots for foreign citizens with advanced degrees from US universities. However, certain organizations are exempt from the annual cap. Exempt organizations include institutions of higher education or related nonprofit entities, nonprofit research organizations, and governmental research organizations.

What is the period of stay?

The H-1B petition may be approved for an initial maximum three-year period. Petition extensions may be obtained up to additional three years, for a total maximum period of stay of six years. When the employee reaches the limit, he must reside abroad for a period of one year before he can reenter US in the H-1B category.

What are the salary requirements?

Employers who are bringing workers in H-1B category must pay the employees the prevailing wage for the specialty occupation in the territory where the employment will take place. For instance, an Los Angeles Startup company is looking to hire a foreign software developer on H-1B visa basis. The company will have to pay the foreign worker the prevailing wage for software developers in Los Angeles. Information about prevailing wages for all the occupations in all the states can be obtained from the Foreign Labor Certification Data Center Online Wage Library. If your company is seeking to sponsor an employee for an H-1B and is unfamiliar with the H-1B process, give our Business Startup attorneys a call. They will advise you on the requirements, help you decide what job title would be appropriate for the employee, and guide you through the process. Our attorneys specialize in other types of employment law matters as well.

What are the deadlines for submitting the H-1B petition?

Generally H-1B petitions can be filed up to six months before the intended commencement of employment. For cap purposes, the filing season for a given fiscal year starts on April 1 for employment starting on October 1. The annual cap is usually reached within a few days after April 1, therefore, employers willing to hire H-1B workers must have their H-1B petitions ready by April 1. In order to send the H-1B petition on April 1, employers must plan ahead to fulfill all the procedural requirements and to have all the supporting documents ready. KAASS Law Locations: Glendale: 815 East Colorado Street, Suite 220, Glendale, CA 91205 Los Angeles: 633 W 5th St 26th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90071 San Bernardino: 570 West 4th Street Suite 300, San Bernardino, CA 92401