You’ve sent the polite reminders and made the awkward calls. So, what’s your next move when a client simply refuses to pay? It’s easy to feel powerless. This is the precise moment a specialist becomes invaluable. A commercial debt recovery lawyer uses the legal system to collect the money you’re rightfully owed. Their work, focusing on the recoveries of commercial debts, provides legal tools that go far beyond any collection agency. For businesses in Springfield, this partnership isn’t just about getting paid. It’s about reinforcing your payment terms and safeguarding your financial future.

Key Takeaways

Leverage Legal Authority to Get Paid: A letter from a law firm carries more weight than an invoice. Hiring a lawyer gives you access to legal tools like lawsuits and judgments, ensuring your collection efforts are taken seriously and remain compliant with the law.
Understand the Step-by-Step Recovery Plan: The debt recovery process isn’t a mystery. It follows a clear path, usually starting with a formal demand letter and only moving to court if necessary. Knowing these steps helps you set realistic expectations and feel in control.
View Legal Fees as a Smart Investment: Don’t let the cost deter you from recovering a significant debt. Compare the potential legal fees to the amount you stand to lose. With options like contingency fees, professional help is often more accessible and financially sound than you might think.

Understanding “Recoveries” in a Commercial Context

Beyond Debt Collection: The Broader Meanings

When we talk about “recoveries,” it’s easy to think only of collecting an unpaid bill. While that’s a key part of creditor representation, the term has a much wider reach in business. A recovery is simply the process of getting back money, assets, or value that was lost or owed. This concept appears in commercial real estate contracts, market cycles, and insurance claims. Understanding these different meanings gives you a clearer picture of your own financial and legal situations, ensuring everyone is on the same page whether you’re signing a lease, filing a claim, or trying to get paid.

Recoveries in Commercial Real Estate Leases

If you’ve leased a commercial property, you’ve likely dealt with “recoveries.” In this context, they are operating expenses a landlord passes on to tenants, like property taxes or common area maintenance. The landlord pays these costs but then “recovers” a portion from each tenant. Not all expenses are recoverable; the specifics are always detailed in the lease agreement. Since these terms can vary significantly, it’s crucial to review them carefully before you sign any contract to understand your full financial obligation.

The Commercial Real Estate Market Cycle

“Recovery” also describes a phase of the commercial real estate market. Real estate moves in a cycle, and recovery is the phase that follows a recession. During this time, the market is at a low point with high vacancy and low rental rates. It’s a period of cautious optimism, where new construction slowly picks up as demand begins to grow. For business owners, recognizing the recovery phase can present unique opportunities to secure favorable terms before the market enters its next stage of expansion.

Recoveries from Insurance Claims

Another critical area for recoveries is insurance claims. After an incident like a car accident, a recovery is the money you get back from an insurance company to cover your losses. This process isn’t just about a check; it’s about ensuring you are made whole and that the process follows all legal rules. Securing a fair recovery from an insurer can be complex, often involving tough negotiations. This is why legal expertise is so important in personal injury cases, where the goal is to recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, and other hardships.

How a Lawyer Handles Commercial Debt Recovery

When a client or customer fails to pay, it can put your entire business in a tough spot. A commercial debt recovery lawyer steps in to manage this process for you, using their legal knowledge to collect the money you’re owed. Their job is to handle the difficult conversations and legal procedures so you can focus on running your business. They work within the legal system to ensure your rights as a creditor are protected.

From Demand Letters to Lawsuits: Their Strategies

A commercial debt recovery lawyer offers services tailored to getting your invoices paid. This often starts with formal demand letters and direct contact with the debtor. If that doesn’t work, they can file a lawsuit to secure a judgment. These lawyers are also skilled in handling complex financial situations, such as when a debtor files for commercial bankruptcy. Whether it’s a Chapter 7 liquidation or a Chapter 11 reorganization, your attorney will represent your interests to recover as much of the debt as possible through the court.

The Power of a “Recoveries Clause” in Contracts

One of the smartest moves you can make to protect your business happens long before an invoice is ever late. It’s called a “recoveries clause,” and it’s a specific term you include in your contracts or service agreements. This clause simply states that if a client fails to pay, they are responsible for covering all costs associated with collecting the debt, including attorney’s fees and court expenses. By adding this to your agreements, you shift the financial risk of non-payment from your business to the delinquent client. It sends a clear, professional message that you take payment seriously and gives clients a strong financial reason to pay you on time.

Legally Claiming Additional Interest and Fees

When an invoice goes unpaid, you are often entitled to more than just the original amount. The law provides ways to compensate you for the delay and the hassle of chasing down your money. In Missouri, for example, creditors can legally charge interest on overdue accounts, even if your initial contract didn’t mention it. This isn’t about punishing a client; it’s about recovering the value of the money you were owed and offsetting the disruption to your cash flow. Applying legally allowed interest and fees helps ensure you are made whole and reinforces that your payment deadlines are firm and enforceable.

When to Negotiate and When to Sue

Not every unpaid invoice has to end up in a courtroom battle. A good lawyer knows when to negotiate and when to litigate. Often, the first step is a strategic negotiation to reach a settlement, which can save you time, money, and stress. If the debtor is unresponsive or unwilling to cooperate, your lawyer won’t hesitate to take legal action. They can guide you on the best path forward, weighing the potential outcomes of various commercial collections strategies against the costs to find the right approach for your specific situation.

Key Triggers for Escalating a Claim

Knowing when to call in a professional is a critical business decision. After you’ve exhausted all the polite reminders and firm follow-ups, it might be time to hire a commercial debt recovery lawyer. This is especially true if you don’t have the internal staff or expertise to manage multiple unpaid accounts. According to one industry guide, engaging a lawyer allows you to focus on your core operations while an expert handles the complexities of debt collection. Key triggers for escalation include a debtor going completely silent, making promises to pay that they repeatedly break, or disputing the debt without a legitimate reason. When the debt is large enough to affect your cash flow, waiting longer is not a strategy. Escalating the claim protects your financial health and sends a clear message that you take your agreements seriously. Our firm can help you evaluate these triggers and determine the most effective next steps for your specific creditor representation needs.

Using Asset Trace Reports to Guide Legal Action

Before you decide to file a lawsuit, it’s wise to know if the debtor even has the means to pay you. This is where an Asset Trace Report becomes an invaluable tool. These reports are instrumental in the debt recovery process because they provide a clear picture of the debtor’s financial standing, including their addresses, other businesses they might own, and any history of financial trouble. This information is crucial for shaping a legal strategy and helps determine the best course of action for recovery. For example, if a report shows the debtor has significant assets, pursuing a judgment is a logical step. If it reveals they have nothing, you can avoid wasting time and money on a lawsuit that won’t yield results. Using these reports allows you to make a data-driven decision, not an emotional one. If you’re facing a difficult collection case, contact us to discuss how we can help you gather the right information to move forward.

Does Your Lawyer Understand Your Industry?

When it comes to recovering money, experience makes a huge difference. A lawyer with deep expertise in creditor rights and collections understands the common tactics debtors use and knows how to counter them effectively. Their specialized knowledge allows them to work more efficiently, anticipate challenges, and increase the likelihood of a successful recovery. An experienced attorney has seen it all before and can give you realistic advice about what to expect.

Keeping Your Collection Efforts Legal

Attempting to collect a debt on your own can be a legal minefield. There are strict federal and state laws that govern how you can contact debtors. A commercial debt recovery lawyer ensures that every action taken on your behalf is fully compliant with the law. This protects your business from potential lawsuits and penalties for improper collection practices. A debt collection attorney helps you understand the legal process and protects your rights, making sure you can pursue what you’re owed without creating new legal problems.

Commercial vs. Consumer Debt: Critical Legal Distinctions

It’s important to understand that not all debt is treated the same under the law. Commercial debt is money owed from one business to another. This is the focus of commercial debt recovery, which deals with unpaid invoices, breached service contracts, or lines of credit between companies. This differs from consumer debt, which is what an individual owes for personal expenses like credit card bills, a car loan, or medical care. The rules for collecting commercial debt are often less restrictive than those for consumer debt, but the process can be more complex due to the larger sums of money and the intricate business agreements involved.

The Role of Personal Guarantees in Business Debt

In the world of business lending and contracts, a personal guarantee is a game-changer. This is a signed agreement where a business owner promises to be personally responsible for the company’s debt if the business itself cannot pay. It effectively removes the liability shield between the business’s finances and the owner’s personal assets. For a creditor, a personal guarantee provides a vital layer of security, creating a second path for recovering the money you are owed. Enforcing these guarantees requires careful legal action, which is why working with an attorney who understands creditor representation is so important.

Why Hiring a Lawyer Is a Smart Business Move

Chasing unpaid invoices is more than just a hassle; it’s a drain on your time, energy, and bottom line. While you might be tempted to handle collections yourself or hire a standard agency, bringing in a commercial debt recovery lawyer changes the game entirely. It’s not just about sending a scary letter—it’s about leveraging legal expertise to protect your business and secure the money you’re rightfully owed. A lawyer brings a powerful combination of negotiation skills, legal authority, and procedural knowledge to the table, turning a frustrating problem into a managed process with a clear path toward resolution. This strategic move allows you to get back to what you do best: running your business.

Get Paid More Often, More Quickly

Let’s be honest: a letter from a law firm gets more attention than an email from your accounting department. When a lawyer gets involved, debtors understand you are serious about collecting what you’re owed. This alone can be enough to prompt payment. Beyond that, an attorney has legal tools at their disposal that you and collection agencies don’t. They can file lawsuits, secure judgments, and pursue legal actions like wage garnishments or property liens to enforce payment. This legal authority is crucial for maintaining healthy cash flow and is a key part of effective creditor representation. Ultimately, partnering with a lawyer significantly improves your chances of recovering the full amount you are due.

How a Lawyer Protects Your Creditor Rights

While you are focused on getting paid, it’s critical to follow the law. The world of debt collection is governed by strict federal and state regulations. Making a mistake, like contacting a debtor at inappropriate times or making false threats, can expose your business to a lawsuit. A lawyer ensures that every action taken on your behalf is fully compliant, protecting you from legal trouble. They understand the nuances of commercial collection laws in Missouri and will aggressively pursue your claim while keeping your business on solid legal ground. This protection is invaluable, giving you peace of mind while they work to recover your funds.

Taking the Complexity Out of Collections

Debt recovery is a time-consuming and often frustrating job. The endless phone calls, follow-up emails, and documentation can easily pull you away from core business activities. Handing this responsibility over to a lawyer simplifies the entire process. They manage all communication with the debtor, handle the complex paperwork, and keep track of every deadline. This frees you and your team to focus on serving your customers and growing your business. As experts point out, recovering outstanding debts can be fraught with challenges, but a lawyer can streamline the effort and take that significant weight off your shoulders.

Handling the Legal Paperwork and Procedures

If a simple demand letter doesn’t work, the next step often involves the court system. This is where a lawyer becomes absolutely essential. The legal procedures for filing a collection lawsuit are complex and vary by jurisdiction. Your attorney will handle everything from drafting and filing the initial complaint to representing you in court. They understand the local court rules in Southwest Missouri, know how to present evidence effectively, and can manage all the procedural requirements that can easily trip up someone without legal training. This expertise ensures your case is handled correctly and professionally from start to finish, avoiding costly errors or delays.

Putting an Expert Negotiator in Your Corner

Not every collection case needs to end in a courtroom battle. In fact, a skilled lawyer can often secure payment without one. Attorneys are trained negotiators who know how to build a strong case and leverage it to bring the other party to the table. Because debtors and their legal counsel take an attorney seriously, it often leads to more productive conversations and better settlement offers. Your lawyer can negotiate for a lump-sum payment or a structured payment plan that works for your business. This can save you the time, expense, and uncertainty of litigation while still achieving your primary goal: getting paid.

Solving the Toughest Collection Problems

Debtors can be creative when trying to avoid payment. They might disappear and stop responding, dispute the validity of the debt, or file for bankruptcy. These are some of the most persistent challenges businesses face, but a seasoned lawyer has seen it all before and has a strategy for each scenario. They can use legal tools to locate a debtor, present clear documentation to shut down disputes, and file a proof of claim in bankruptcy court to ensure you get what you’re entitled to from the proceedings. Instead of hitting a dead end, you have an expert ready to overcome these common roadblocks. If you’re facing these issues, it’s time to get in touch.

Finding the Right Commercial Debt Lawyer in Springfield

Finding the right lawyer can feel like a monumental task, especially when you’re already dealing with the stress of a legal issue. But it doesn’t have to be complicated. The key is to find a professional who not only has the right experience but also communicates in a way that gives you confidence and clarity. You’re not just hiring someone to handle paperwork; you’re looking for a partner who will stand with you, understand your goals, and work tirelessly on your behalf.

Whether you’ve been in a car accident, are dealing with a premises liability claim, or need to recover a commercial debt, the right local attorney makes all the difference. They understand the specific courts, procedures, and legal landscape in Southwest Missouri. To find the best fit for your situation, focus on a few key areas: their expertise, the questions you should ask, potential red flags, and their communication style. Breaking the process down into these steps will help you make a choice you can feel good about.

Key Qualities of a Great Debt Recovery Attorney

When you start your search, focus on a lawyer’s specific experience. Legal work is highly specialized, so you want someone who regularly handles cases like yours. If you need to recover a business debt, a lawyer who primarily deals with family law might not have the focused knowledge required. Look for a firm that clearly outlines its practice areas and has a history of success in the field you need.

It’s also important to think about value over price. While it can be tempting to go with the cheapest option, an inexperienced lawyer can make mistakes that cost you much more in the long run. An effective, experienced attorney provides value through efficiency and a deep understanding of the law, which often leads to a better outcome for you.

Questions to Ask Before You Hire

Your initial consultation is the perfect time to ask direct questions and get a feel for how the lawyer operates. Don’t be shy—this is your chance to interview them for an important job. Start with the basics to ensure you’re on the same page.

Here are a few essential questions to ask:

What is your experience with cases similar to mine?
How are your legal fees structured? Is it an hourly rate, a flat fee, or a contingency basis?
Who will be my main point of contact at the firm?
What are the potential outcomes for my case?
What is your preferred method of communication for updates?

A straightforward lawyer will be happy to answer these questions. If you’re ready to get answers, you can contact a lawyer to schedule a consultation and start the conversation.

Warning Signs: When to Walk Away

Just as important as knowing what to look for is knowing what to avoid. One of the biggest red flags is a lawyer who guarantees a specific outcome. The legal system has too many variables for anyone to make that kind of promise. An ethical lawyer will offer a realistic assessment of your case, including both strengths and weaknesses.

Also, be wary of anyone who is difficult to get in touch with from the very beginning. If they don’t return your initial call or email in a timely manner, it could be a sign of how they’ll communicate throughout your case. Finally, trust your gut. If a lawyer seems dismissive of your concerns or uses overly aggressive tactics that don’t align with your goals, they probably aren’t the right fit for you.

Is Their Communication Style a Good Fit?

Clear and consistent communication is the foundation of a good attorney-client relationship. You need a lawyer who can explain complex legal matters in plain English, without relying on confusing jargon. During your consultation, pay attention to how they speak with you. Do they listen to your story and answer your questions patiently? Or do they do all the talking?

You are looking for a strategic partner who will keep you informed every step of the way. A good lawyer will outline their proposed strategy and make sure you understand and agree with the approach. This client-centered focus is crucial, as it ensures your voice is heard and your goals remain the top priority. You should feel like you’re part of a team, working together toward the best possible resolution.

What Does Legal Debt Recovery Cost?

When you’re already dealing with unpaid invoices, the last thing you want is another significant expense. Thinking about legal fees can be stressful, but it’s helpful to reframe it as an investment in recovering the money you’re rightfully owed. The cost of hiring a debt collection lawyer isn’t a simple, single number; it varies based on how complex your case is, the amount of the debt, and the attorney’s fee structure. A good lawyer will be completely transparent about their fees from the start, so you can make a clear-headed, informed decision for your business.

Understanding the potential costs and returns is the first step toward putting this issue behind you and getting paid. Before you write off a debt as a loss, it’s worth exploring your options. Pursuing legal action can feel intimidating, but it’s often the most effective way to assert your rights as a creditor and secure the funds that keep your business running. The right legal partner will guide you through the process, making it feel manageable and straightforward while they handle the heavy lifting. They can also help you understand if your contracts or local laws allow you to recoup legal fees from the debtor, which can significantly change the financial picture.

Breaking Down Attorney Fee Structures

Legal fees for debt recovery aren’t one-size-fits-all. The structure often depends on the lawyer and the details of your case. Some attorneys work on an hourly basis, while others might offer a flat fee for a specific service, like sending a demand letter. Another common option is a contingency fee, where the lawyer’s payment is a percentage of the amount they successfully recover for you. This can be a great option if cash flow is a concern. The key is to find a lawyer who clearly explains their practice areas and associated fee structures, ensuring there are no surprises along the way.

Is It Worth It? Calculating Your ROI

When you’re weighing the cost, think about your potential return. It’s not just about the legal fee itself; it’s about what you stand to gain—or lose. Many business contracts include clauses that allow you to recover collection costs from the debtor. In some cases, Missouri law may even permit you to recover reasonable attorney’s fees in a successful lawsuit. This means the final cost to you could be much lower than you think. Compare the attorney’s fee to the total debt owed and the high probability of never seeing that money without professional help. The return on investment often makes legal action a clear choice.

Balancing the Cost vs. the Potential Reward

A crucial step is to compare the cost of legal action against the amount of the debt. As a general guideline, hiring an attorney becomes particularly wise for debts over $5,000, where the potential recovery justifies the legal expense. For smaller amounts, the fees could eclipse what you get back. However, every situation is unique. A lawyer can help you assess the likelihood of a successful recovery and determine if pursuing the debt makes financial sense. The best way to know for sure is to schedule a consultation to discuss the specifics of your case and get a clear picture of the potential outcomes.

Why a Good Lawyer Is an Investment, Not an Expense

Finding the right lawyer isn’t just about winning one case; it’s about building a relationship that can protect your business for years. A good attorney acts as a partner who understands your operations and is focused on getting you results. For many small businesses, lawyers who offer fixed-fee packages provide predictability and peace of mind, as you know the exact cost upfront. This approach keeps the focus on an efficient, successful outcome rather than on billable hours. When you find a lawyer you trust, like Chad G. Mann, you gain an advocate who will be there to handle future issues, saving you time and stress down the road.

What to Expect: The Debt Recovery Process Step-by-Step

Understanding the debt recovery process can make a stressful situation feel more manageable. While every case has its own unique details, the path to recovering what you’re owed generally follows a series of clear, logical steps. From the first conversation with your lawyer to the final collection of funds, knowing what to expect can give you confidence and peace of mind. Here’s a step-by-step look at how a commercial debt recovery lawyer can help you get paid.

Step 1: The Initial Consultation and Case Review

Your journey begins with an initial consultation. This first meeting is all about getting to know you and the specifics of your case. You’ll want to bring all relevant documents, such as contracts, invoices, purchase orders, and any communication you’ve had with the debtor. Your lawyer will review everything to determine the strength of your claim and whether the debt is legally enforceable. This is your opportunity to ask questions and get a clear picture of your options. A thorough case review sets the foundation for a successful strategy, ensuring every action taken is calculated and effective from the very start. It’s the most important step in building a solid plan to recover your funds.

Step 2: Issuing a Formal Demand Letter

Often, the first official action your lawyer will take is sending a formal demand letter to the debtor. This isn’t just any letter; it’s a professional, legally-backed communication that clearly states the amount owed, the basis for the debt, and a deadline for payment. A demand letter sent from a law office signals that you are serious about recovering the money and are prepared to take legal action if necessary. For many debtors, this is enough to prompt payment, making it a highly effective and cost-efficient first step. It formalizes your collection efforts and can often resolve the issue without ever needing to step foot in a courtroom.

Step 3: Filing a Lawsuit and Going to Court

If a demand letter doesn’t result in payment, filing a lawsuit may be the next logical step. This can sound intimidating, but your lawyer will handle the entire legal process for you. They will file the necessary paperwork with the court, formally serve the debtor, and represent you in all proceedings. The goal is to obtain a legal judgment from a judge that confirms the debtor owes you the money. Throughout the process, your attorney will manage the complexities of court rules and deadlines, building a strong case based on the evidence. Having an expert guide you through the creditor representation process removes the burden from your shoulders and ensures your case is presented effectively.

Step 4: Enforcing the Judgment to Get Paid

Winning a lawsuit is a major victory, but the work isn’t over until the money is in your account. A court judgment is a powerful tool that legally orders the debtor to pay you. If they still refuse, your lawyer can use several legal methods to enforce the judgment. These post-judgment collection strategies can include garnishing the debtor’s wages, placing a levy on their bank accounts, or putting a lien on their property. Your attorney will know which tools are most appropriate for your situation and will pursue them diligently to ensure you collect the funds you are rightfully owed. This final step is critical to turning a court win into a tangible financial recovery.

How Long Will It Take and What Can You Expect?

One of the most common questions is, “How long will this take?” The truth is, the timeline for debt recovery varies widely. A simple case might be resolved in a few weeks if the debtor pays after receiving a demand letter. However, if the case goes to court and requires post-judgment collection efforts, it could take several months or longer. Factors like the debtor’s willingness to cooperate and the court’s schedule play a significant role. During your initial consultation, your lawyer can provide a more personalized estimate based on the details of your case. This transparency helps you set realistic expectations and plan accordingly for the road ahead.

Who to Call for Commercial Debt Recovery in Springfield

Finding the right legal partner is key. Here are some of the top-rated firms for commercial debt recovery in the Springfield area.

The Law Office of Chad G. Mann, LLC

With a strong focus on creditor representation, Chad G. Mann provides dedicated and personalized service to businesses seeking to recover unpaid debts. His client-centered approach ensures you receive clear communication and a legal strategy tailored specifically to your situation, aiming for an efficient and effective resolution.

Lowther Johnson Attorneys at Law, LLC

This firm has a well-established practice in creditor rights and collections. Lowther Johnson offers robust representation for businesses, leveraging extensive experience to handle complex collection cases and protect their clients’ financial interests.

Neale & Newman, L.L.P.

Neale & Newman is a full-service law firm that provides comprehensive legal support for debt recovery. They are known for developing effective, tailored strategies to meet the unique needs of each business client they represent in collection matters.

Carnahan, Evans, Cantwell & Brown, P.C.

As one of Springfield’s larger firms, Carnahan, Evans, Cantwell & Brown offers a wide array of business law services, including debt collection. They have a strong reputation for providing effective legal counsel to creditors across various industries.

Strong-Garner-Bauer P.C.

While widely known for personal injury law, Strong-Garner-Bauer also handles commercial litigation cases that include debt recovery. Their team brings significant trial experience to the table, which can be an asset in contested collection lawsuits.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the real difference between hiring a lawyer and just using a collection agency? Think of it this way: a collection agency can ask for the money, but a lawyer can legally compel payment. While agencies are great at sending letters and making calls, their authority stops there. A lawyer can take the critical next step by filing a lawsuit to obtain a court judgment. This judgment gives them the legal power to enforce payment through actions like garnishing wages or levying bank accounts, which is a level of authority an agency simply doesn’t have.

What happens if the debtor files for bankruptcy after I’ve started the collection process? This is a common concern, but it doesn’t automatically mean the debt is lost. When a debtor files for bankruptcy, the court issues an “automatic stay,” which pauses all collection activities. At this point, your lawyer’s role shifts to representing you in the bankruptcy proceeding. They will file a formal “proof of claim” to ensure your debt is officially recognized by the court, giving you the best possible chance to recover a portion of what you’re owed from the debtor’s available assets.

Is it worth the cost to hire a lawyer for a smaller debt? This really depends on the specifics of your situation. While a full-blown lawsuit might not be cost-effective for a smaller amount, that doesn’t mean a lawyer can’t help. Often, a single, professionally written demand letter from a law firm is all it takes to get a debtor to pay. It’s a relatively low-cost action that can have a high success rate. A good attorney can help you weigh the cost against the likelihood of recovery during an initial consultation.

What documents should I gather before my first meeting with a debt recovery lawyer? Coming to your first meeting prepared will help your lawyer get to work faster. You should gather every piece of paper related to the debt. This includes any signed contracts, all unpaid invoices, purchase orders, and a record of your communications with the debtor, such as emails or letters. The more evidence you can provide upfront, the clearer the picture your lawyer will have, allowing them to build a strong and effective strategy from day one.

Does every debt collection case end up in a lawsuit? Absolutely not. In fact, the goal is often to avoid court. A lawsuit is a powerful tool, but it’s typically a last resort. Many cases are resolved after the debtor receives a formal demand letter from the attorney. If that doesn’t work, a lawyer’s next step is often to negotiate a settlement or a structured payment plan. Litigation is reserved for situations where the debtor refuses to cooperate or disputes the debt without a valid reason.

Recoveries of Commercial Debt: A Practical Guide for Business Owners