Four Legal New Year's Resolutions Every Business Owner Should Make

As we close out 2025 and look ahead to a new year, it's the perfect time to strengthen your business's legal foundation. While most entrepreneurs focus on revenue goals and growth strategies, the businesses that truly thrive are those that prioritize legal protection and compliance. Here are five legal New Year's resolutions every business owner should make—and actually keep—in 2026.

1. Finally Create That Succession Plan

We all avoid thinking about it, but what happens to your business if something happens to you? Whether it's retirement, disability, or an unexpected tragedy, having a succession plan isn't morbid—it's responsible. A proper succession plan identifies who will take over your business, how ownership will transfer, and how the transition will be funded. This protects your business partners, your employees and your family. It also protects the legacy you've built. Make 2026 the year you stop putting this off. Your future self (and your loved ones) will thank you.

2. Establish or Update Your Emergency Procedures

The past few years have taught us that unexpected disruptions are inevitable. Does your business have documented emergency procedures? I'm talking about data breach response protocols, natural disaster plans, key employee departure procedures, and crisis communication strategies. Create a comprehensive emergency manual that includes contact information for employees, critical vendors, insurance agents, and legal counsel. Store it both physically and digitally in secure, accessible locations. Let your managers know where this is and how to use it.  Review and update these procedures at least annually.  Hoping for the best isn't a business strategy.

3. Implement Better Contract Management Systems

How many times have you scrambled to find a signed contract or missed a renewal deadline? Commit to organizing your contracts in 2026. Create a centralized system—whether it's a simple spreadsheet or contract management software—that tracks all agreements, key terms, renewal dates, and termination requirements. Set up automatic reminders for important deadlines at least 60-90 days in advance. Schedule quarterly reviews of your contract inventory. This simple system will save you from missed opportunities, auto-renewals you don't want, and the headache of disorganized paperwork.

4. Schedule Quarterly Legal Check-Ins

Most business owners only call their attorney when there's a problem. Flip that script in 2026. Schedule quarterly meetings with your business attorney to proactively address issues before they become expensive problems. Use these sessions to review new contracts, discuss upcoming business changes, ensure regulatory compliance, and ask those questions you've been meaning to get to. Think of it like preventative healthcare for your business—regular check-ups cost far less than emergency surgery.

Making Resolutions Stick

The key to keeping these resolutions is treating them like any other business priority. Add them to your project management system, delegate tasks where appropriate, and set specific deadlines. Don't try to tackle everything in January—spread these initiatives throughout the year for sustainable progress.

Remember, legal protection isn't an expense—it's an investment in your business's longevity and success. Make 2026 the year your business becomes not just profitable, but truly protected.