Legal Guide for Starting & Running a Small Business, 6th Edition (2001)

Small business owners are regularly confronted by a bewildering array of legal questions and problems. Ignoring them can lead to disaster -- but with lawyers typically charging $150-$250 an hour, calling one to answer routine legal questions can be a fast track to the poorhouse. Fortunately, you have a better alternative. Legal Guide for Starting & Running a Small Business clearly explains the practical and legal information you need to: * raise start-up money * choose between a sole proprietorship, partnership or L.L.C. * get licenses and permits * buy or sell a business or franchise * negotiate a favorable lease * insure your business * hire independent contractors safely * understand small business tax rules * pick & protect a good name * resolve legal disputes * adopt the best customer policies * enter into enforceable contracts * cope with financial problems Completely revised and updated, the book provides the latest information on the hugely popular limited liability corporation, including an expanded discussion of how to choose between a corporation and an LLC. The bestselling book also packs tips on: * sharing business ownership with a spouse * how to raise money * new rules for taking home-office tax deductions * the best Web sites for small-business legal information.