Iowa Dealers—Check Your Plates!
An Iowa Supreme Court May 2, 2014 decision may affect Iowa Automotive dealers and their customers. Many dealerships promote their business through the use of plate frames. The Iowa Supreme Court has put a small hiccup in the use of plate frames for d…
Read MoreCASE UPDATE: Finnin Motors v. U.S.
In 2009, GM and Chrysler terminated over 100 franchises during the course of their bankruptcies. In two class action lawsuits, which include some Iowa dealers, franchise-owners claimed that the termination of their franchises created an illegal “ta…
Read MoreBrakeDown: Federal and Iowa Laws on Dealer Advertising
We recently blogged about “Operation Steer Clear,” where the FTC targeted automobile dealerships for false or misleading advertising. The FTC charged a number of dealers with violations leading to litigation and consent agreements. For more on th…
Read MoreBuy-In: Adding an Investor—Pros, Cons, and Pointers
Allowing an investor to buy into your corporation or LLC can be a complicated process. While it may be a great idea for some dealerships, it may be unsuitable for others. Every case is unique, and whether to add an investor involves a series of impor…
Read MoreClassic Puffery or Illegal Misrepresentation?
Puffery: advertising copy that indulges in subjective exaggeration in its descriptions of a product or service, such as “an outstanding piece of luggage.” Puffery is always a matter of opinion on the part of the advertiser and often will use …
Read MoreNADA Urges Dealerships to Get a Lawyer: FTC’s “Operation Steer Clear” is a Wake-Up Call for Auto Dealership Advertising
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) was established to be a watchdog against businesses that may not have consumer-friendly business practices. In particular, it attempts to corral businesses that may not be entirely truthful or are misleading the ave…
Read MoreLicense To Sell – Quick Facts about Licensure in Iowa
Every automotive dealership in Iowa is required to be licensed by the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT). Anyone that sells more than six (6) motor vehicles within twelve (12) months may be presumed to be engaged in the business and should be li…
Read MoreAttention Business Owners: You May be Eligible for the New Iowa Tax Credit!
The Iowa legislature recently enacted the Business Property Tax Credit. The credit will allow commercial-property owners to cut down on the property taxes in 2013 that will be payable in the fall of 2014 or the spring of 2015. This credit will apply …
Read MoreWritten by James H. Arenson
Last Updated : February 13, 2024