#54 – Legal Mistakes That Cost Founders Millions: Contracts, Trademarks & Exit Prep with Autumn Witt Boyd

Do you really own your brand? Are your client contracts actually protecting you? In this episode of Millions Were Made, Jessica Marx sits down with Autumn Witt Boyd, attorney and Founder of AWB Law Firm, to break down the biggest legal mistakes founders make and how to fix them before it costs you.From outdated contracts to missing trademarks, Autumn shares exactly what to audit, upgrade, or document before you scale to 8 figures or prepare for an exit. They also dive into real-life stories of founders who got burned by DIY legal, what every business should have in writing (but doesn’t), and why it’s not enough to ‘trust your gut’ when it comes to protecting your intellectual property.Whether you're making your first hire or getting your company exit-ready, this episode will help you future-proof your business legally without getting overwhelmed by the fine print.Highlights:(02:05) Why 7 & 8 figure founders are still missing key legal protections(04:08) What goes in a strong client contract (and what everyone forgets)(07:29) Renewals, addendums, and protecting your payment terms(08:10) Why a handshake or email isn’t enough(10:45) How to create paper trails that prevent client disputes(11:07) The risk of copying contracts from competitors or using AI(13:02) What your lawyer should help you decide—not just draft(14:15) The 4 legal documents you need to review yearly(17:11) The truth about trademarks: timing, costs & common myths(18:40) What’s copyright vs trademark—and what’s worth protecting(21:29) Real client stories: getting ripped off by a big company(23:16) What to do when someone copies your content or offer(25:34) Most common lawsuits (and how to avoid them)(27:56) Contractor risks no one talks about(28:33) What buyers look for in due diligence (and what kills deals)(30:38) How to increase your exit valuation with legal systems(31:04) Autumn’s #1 tip for building a company that lasts(32:50) The freedom entrepreneurship gave Autumn’s family(35:30) How networking (not pitching) creates real growthConnect with Jessica:Instagram: @millionsweremade | @thejessicamarxWork with Jessica: Tailored PremierWebsite: Millions Were MadeConnect with Autumn:Website: awbfirm.comInstagram: @awbfirm