Plexus Connects: Avoiding the Pitfalls of Lease Agreements

Description

Avoiding the Pitfalls of Lease Agreements is an educational session designed specifically for small business owners who want to protect their business, finances, and long-term stability when entering into or renewing a commercial lease. Led by a Legal Aid expert, this session will break down the key components of lease agreements in clear, practical terms, helping participants understand what they are signing, why it matters, and where risks often hide. Attendees will learn to identify common pitfalls such as unfavorable renewal clauses, hidden costs, maintenance responsibilities, and termination terms, as well as strategies for asking the right questions before signing. The session will equip business owners with greater confidence and awareness so they can approach lease agreements as informed decision-makers rather than reacting after problems arise.

Introducing our speaker: Catherine R. Donnelly (she/her) is a Senior Attorney in the Community Engagement Practice Group at The Legal Aid Society of Cleveland. Catherine supports Legal Aid’s work with Legal Center for Entrepreneurs with Low Income. Catherine also represents community groups and nonprofits in building sustainable structures to answer community issues. She joined Legal Aid in 2020, coming from a private practice where she provided general counsel services to small and mid-sized businesses in all stages of growth and to community development groups and other nonprofits. In 2019, Catherine was honored for her pro bono work advising microbusinesses as the Women’s Business Center of Greater Cleveland’s Volunteer of the Year. She has served on multiple boards and is currently in leadership of the CMBA Women In Law Section and on the board of Northwest Neighborhoods CDC. Before law school, Catherine worked in social services and community organizing. She graduated summa cum laude from Cleveland State University College of Law in 2008. She holds a B.A. from Oberlin College.

Hosted by the Plexus Diversity Supplier Committee and Legal Aid.

Plexus Connects is a monthly, member-powered learning series designed to spark ideas, share expertise, and strengthen community. Hosted over the lunch hour, each session features a mix of engaging presentations, interactive workshops, and panel discussions led by Plexus members and community leaders across industries and fields.

Created with our members and for our members, Plexus Connects dives into timely, relevant topics that support professional growth, business success, and inclusive leadership. Come ready to learn, ask questions, exchange ideas, and connect with people who get it. Bring your lunch. Leave with new insights, fresh connections, and practical takeaways.