Welcome to episode 284 of the Grow Your Law Firm podcast, hosted by Ken Hardison. In this episode, Ken sits down with Ilona Anderson, founder of Carpe Diem Law Firm, a legal practice that helps businesses, employers, and employees navigate trademark protection, employment law compliance, and workplace disputes. Ilona is a trademark and employment law attorney. She helps entrepreneurs protect their brands and build compliant, high-integrity teams. With a decade of experience co-leading one of Florida’s fastest-growing employment law practices, Ilona brings a unique dual perspective—having represented both employees and business owners. Known for her mindful and practical legal approach, Ilona empowers business owners to avoid costly lawsuits and protect what they’ve built. What you’ll learn about in this episode: 1. Importance of Trademarking: - Trademarking your name, slogan, or business elements is crucial for business protection and growth. - Getting a trademark is relatively affordable, typically costing around one to two thousand dollars. 2. Hiring Offshore Workers: - Hiring offshore workers through agencies can simplify compliance with employment and tax laws. - Offshore workers can be managed by agencies, reducing direct employer responsibilities. 3. Distinction Between Independent Contractors and Employees: - Simply labeling a worker as an independent contractor is not sufficient for legal compliance. - The Department of Labor and IRS use economic realities tests to evaluate worker classifications. 4. Factors for Determining Worker Status: - Control over work schedules, tools, and independence are key factors in determining worker classification. - The totality of circumstances, not individual factors, is considered by courts in determining employee versus independent contractor status. 5. Resource for Determining Worker Classification: - Access to a guide for determining employee or independent contractor status based on the latest Department of Labor guidance. - Listeners can request the guide from Ilona Anderson or through Ken for additional assistance. Resources: Website: Carpe Diem Law Firm | Helping Your Brand & Team Blossom LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ilona-anderson  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CarpeDiemLawFirm/ Additional Resources:    https://www.pilmma.org/aiworkshop https://www.pilmma.org/the-mastermind-effect https://www.pilmma.org/resources https://www.pilmma.org/mastermind