Protect Your Passion with Jillian Cardona
- Kari Sorensen
- May 26
- 4 min read
Updated: Jun 5
The Must-Know Legal Moves Every Entrepreneur Needs: Insights from Business Attorney Jillian Cardona
Let’s be real — most entrepreneurs don’t start their businesses for the thrill of contracts, trademarks, website legal pages, or compliance checklists. Legal matters can seem overwhelming, expensive, or downright boring… until it’s too late.
That’s why this month’s Small Business Best Friend is here to help change the narrative. I sat down with the brilliant business attorney Radiate Confidence Legal who’s on a mission to make the law accessible, empowering, and aligned with the heart behind your business. Whether you’re DIY-ing your brand and website or scaling something big, her insights are a must-read.
Why Every Small Business (Especially Women-Owned) Needs Legal Support
“Hiring a business attorney means you’re building your business on a foundation that’s meant to last,” she explains. “For women-owned businesses in particular, legal support helps cut through the noise and confusion so you can protect what you’re building — while staying in control.”
She’s not here to scare you into legal panic mode — she’s here to show you how the right support can actually bring peace of mind and freedom.
It’s not about formality — it’s about freedom and backing your boundaries with legally enforceable documents.
The Top 3 Legal Mistakes Small Businesses Make
Not forming the right entity.
“So many small businesses stick with sole proprietorships when an LLC could offer real protection.”
Skipping contracts.
“Relying on DMs or email threads instead of signed agreements is risky — it leaves you vulnerable if anything goes sideways.”
Trademark neglect.
“Too many entrepreneurs build a beautiful brand without checking if they actually own it or can protect it.”
Her takeaway?
"Legal doesn’t have to be intimidating. You deserve a legal strategy that grows with you.”
Protecting Your Brand: Trademarks, Copyrights, and Canva Yes, Really)*
Not sure if your logo, course, or social media graphics are legally protected? You’re not alone — and this is where things get tricky (and important).
Jillian breaks it down simply:
“A trademark protects your brand identity — like your business name, logo, or tagline. A copyright protects original creative work — like your course content, photos, blog posts, or ebooks.”
And yes — using tools like Canva or stock images can create complications. “Canva’s licenses allow commercial use, but you don’t own exclusive rights to most elements — especially templates. That means your branding might not be eligible for trademark protection.”
Other Intellectual Property Mistakes to Avoid:
Choosing a business name or phrase you don’t legally own
Waiting too long to register your trademark
Assuming free fonts and stock images are safe to use
Skipping the fine print on design tools and “free” resources
Vocab Word of the Week: Intellectual Property (IP).
Intellectual Property refers to the creative ideas and original work that belong to you—like your business name, logo, designs, content, and inventions—and that you can legally protect from being copied or used without your permission.
Contracts: Don’t Overlook the Details
Whether you’re onboarding clients, collaborating with contractors, or bartering services with your biz bestie — you need clear written agreements.
Here are some non-negotiables:
Client Agreements – set expectations around scope, timeline, ownership, payments, and cancellations
Independent Contractor Agreements – especially for freelancers or team support
NDAs – protect your business ideas and sensitive info
Affiliate Agreements – for referral or commission arrangements
Website Terms + Privacy Policies – for your online presence
“Even when it’s a trade or a favor, contracts keep everyone honest and aligned. The more clearly you spell things out, the more confidently you can show up in your business.”
No matter if it’s a paid gig or a favor, contracts keep everyone on the same page. The clearer the rules, the easier it is to show up confidently in your business.
Just for Fun: Life Beyond Legal
When she’s not decoding contracts or helping women protect their businesses, you’ll likely find her dancing, making ceramics, or swimming — often with her kids in tow.
“Building a business as a mom has made me more intentional — about time, about legacy, and about teaching my kids what it looks like to create something that matters.”
The Importance of Legal Support in Business Growth
As entrepreneurs, we face many challenges in our journey. Legal issues should not be one of them. Legal support is crucial as your business grows. Proper legal advice can help you avoid pitfalls and ensure compliance with regulations. This support allows you to focus on your passion without the fear of legal repercussions.
Many entrepreneurs feel overwhelmed by the legal side of their business. Surrounding yourself with the right team can guide you through complex legal waters.
Final Thoughts: You Don’t Have to DIY Everything
As business owners, we’re used to wearing all the hats. But just because you can figure things out doesn’t mean you should do it alone.
Legal support isn’t just for the big leagues. It’s for the creators, the dreamers, and the doers who are building something worth protecting — starting now.
Need help making sure your business is legally legit? Check out her website and explore legal templates, trademark services, and more.
Jillian Cardona's information:
Website: www.radiateconfidencelegal.com
Socials: @radiateconfidencelegal
—
At Kinship Creative, we believe that running your business shouldn’t feel like doing it all alone. That’s why each month we spotlight a business owner who’s not only crushing it in their field but generously sharing their wisdom with the rest of us.
You can follow along with more features like this by subscribing to our newsletter or checking us out on Instagram @kinshipcreative805
Comments