Book Description

Reed, Shedd, Morehead and Corley's, The Legal and Regulatory Environment of Business, is the landmark text that established the field for the Legal Environment of Business course.The 12th Edition continues the fine tradition of highlighting the legal and regulatory environment in which people and companies conduct business activities. It emphasizes public rather than private law. This 12th Edition is now a four-color product for the very first time and highlighted changes include important coverage of e-commerce and intellectual property. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Informative, enlightening, and well-organized.
Like many Americans, I didn't know much about our country's principles of government or its legal system. This book helped me to become more knowledgeable about both. I admit, this is not reading I would choose to curl up with in front of the fire; this was part of a requirement for my MBA. However, I will remember what I've learned in this text long after my class ends. Having previously been clueless about the legal system, it is now exhilarating to read about, say, how the nine US Supreme Court Justices are dealing with the aftermath of the Gore vs. Bush debacle and actually understand what is going on. The chapters are well-organized and easy to understand. There are even helpful study tips and ways to brief a legal case in the beginning of the text. After completing this book, I not only feel better equipped to handle business decisions, but also feel empowered and enlightened for better understanding our great country. ... Read more

Book Description

This new hybrid book integrates both e-commerce and traditional legal environment issues, serving as a bridge between the two by covering the legal environment of business and its extensions into e-commerce. The text fulfills the need for greater understanding of the role of law, regulation, and public policy. A major focus is on how existing laws will accommodate the transition and on what issues new perspectives are needed from legislation, regulation, judicial interpretation, private contracting, industry self-regulation and public policy. ... Read more

Book Description

More and more professionals are forming limited liability companies (LLCs) to take advantage of their many benefits. LLCs provide partners with a corporate-style liability shield, protecting them from personal responsibility for the company's debts and obligations.

This book explains LLCs in detail, helping readers to fully understand what an LLC is and how they can benefit from one.

Topics covered in this book include: What is an LLC? What types of companies can become an LLC? Advantages and disadvantages of forming an LLC, converting an existing busines to an LLC, the basics of LLC membership, the importance of an opening agreement, conducting and managing an LLC, and special tax considerations. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A highly recommended resource for the novice entrepreneur
Now in a completely updated third edition, How To Form And Operate A Limited Liability Company: A Do-It-Yourself Guide by Gregory C. Damman is a straightforward, "user friendly" instructional guide for taking full advantage of the benefits of a limited liability company (LLC), which protects company partners from personal responsibility for the company's debts and obligations. Introductory basics are accessibly presented concerning what types of companies can become an LLC; the advantages and disadvantages of forming an LLC; converting a business into an LLC; tax considerations, and much, much more are all knowledgeably presented in a meticulous and highly accessible manner. An accompanying CD-ROM of forms and samples enhances this highly recommended basic resource for the novice entrepreneur. ... Read more

Book Description

Whether you're an independent contractor, freelancer, or consultant, it all adds up to the same thing: you need to be more aware of laws and taxes than the average person.

Fortunately, Working for Yourself provides all the information you need to stay on top of it all. An independent contractor himself, author Attorney Stephen Fishman shows you everything you need to know to:

*meet business start-up requirements *set up home or outside offices *comply with strict IRS rules *establish sound business relationships *avoid unfair contracts *draft good agreements *get paid in full and on time

The 5th edition now provides information on leasing space for work, Health Savings Accounts and solo 401(k) plans. It also examines how to choose a business name, deal with audits, take a home office deduction -- and much more. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Straighforward intro to the legal aspects of freelancing
A potential employer asked that I incorporate my freelancing business before they start sending me jobs. I wanted to do some research on the pros/cons of incorporating, what kind of start-ups costs this would entail, and what kind of corporation I should be. At first, the whole process of incorporating sounded like a huge money burden on my part--with filing fees and taxes--but this book has helped me sort out the issues and provided detailed information about the different ways to incorporate--sole proprietorship, LLC, S-corps. Although I haven't yet decided which path I will take, this book has made the jump to freelancing, and self-incorporating, less scary.

Not only do I understand my choices better, but I also now understand the different structures for businesses and their tax responsibilities. Great distillation of information! The copies of tax forms in the back are also a great reference. Highly recommended.

!
I have been a consultant for 5 years. This book has proved an excellent reference in working with clients to keep my independant contractor status.

I bought the ebook version, 1st time getting a protected .pdf file. Conclusion in that regard, I would *never* buy a ebook version of anything again!

Excellent Book For Understanding Contractor/Freelancer Taxes
"Working For Yourself" is a solid introduction to the basic taxes and laws that consultants and feelancers need to understand. The book doesn't cover inventory accounting, cogs, and other accounting/tax topics related to running a product-based business.

"Working For Yourself" discusses basic business structure, including sole proprietorships, LLCs, and corporations. Fishman points out that S-corporations offer an advantage over LLCs and sole proprietorships, if the consultant wants to save some money in self-employment taxes. This is because all net earnings from LLCs and sole proprietorships (up to a wage base of about $85,000) are subject to self-employment taxation. An S-corporation allows part of this money to be paid out as dividends, which aren't subject to employment taxes.

Fishman says corporations don't offer consultants and freelancers as much liability protection as is commonly believed, because the individual is also the one rendering the personal service. And, most lenders to a small corporation will want a personal guarantee that debt will be paid (unless the corporation is well-financed).

Professionals rendering certain services can form business structures unique to professional businesses, such as the RLLP, or registered limited liability partnerships. Clients can always sue certain professionals for malpractice, regardless of their business structure. But, a professional working with a partner shouldn't be unduly subject to suits against the partner for malpractice. These business structures are mentioned, but not covered in detail.

"Working For Yourself" covers these topics very well:

- Self-Employment Taxes
- Paying Estimated Taxes (And Calculating How Much To Pay)
- Dealing with Independent Contractors and 1099-MISC Forms
- Understanding/Drafting Client Agreements
- Insurance
- Worker's Compensation Insurance
- Understanding Who Owns What Rights When An Independent Contractor Creates Intellectual Capital For A Client
- Recordkeeping And Knowing What Documents to Save In Case Of An Audit

Incidentally, Fishman says sole proprietors are one of the most heavily audited business structures. He says this happens because many people claim to operate businesses to get tax deductions, even if they aren't really trying to make money.

Fishman discusses the "hobby loss" rule and how unprofitable businesses can be denied deductions after three consecutive years of losses. However, Fishman points out that if you can show that you really are trying to make money, losses in excess of the typical three years can be allowed.

For example, Fishman discusses Donald, a "golf pro," who the IRS challenged was engaging in a hobby. Donald had lots of deductible net losses. The tax court decided that even though Donald had many years of losses, he really was trying his best to win tournaments and make money. He just sucked at it. And, the losses were allowed.

Other topics are covered more superficially, but the reader is introduced to the basic concepts. Intellectual capital, such as patents, copyrights, and trademarks are touched upon. Also, hiring employees is very briefly discussed. (Fishman is also the author of a book about copyright that sounds really good.)

One section discusses naming your company and the importance of a good name. We're told the French company that decided to market their soft drink Pischitt in the U.S. had to rename it.

"Working For Yourself" has a great discussion showing how much various expenses reduce your income taxes (basically, multiply the expense by your incremental income tax bracket). The book also does a good job showing the kinds of logs you need to keep if you use an item for business and for pleasure.

But, I found one piece of advice that seems a bit silly. Fishman writes: "To avoid having to keep such records, try to use items either only for business or only for personal use. For example, if you can afford it, purchase two computers and use one solely for your business and one for playing games and other personal uses."

It seems you'd be better off just buying one computer and not claiming any deductions for it at all, rather than buying an extra computer you don't need. Suppose a computer costs $1,000. That's how much you spend to purchase your personal PC. If you purchase a business PC for $1,000 also and you're in a net 30% incremental income tax bracket, you save $300 in taxes. Your total cost for both computers, after the business deduction, is $1,700, which is still more than $1,000 for the single PC, if no deductions are claimed. This seems a bit akin to people who don't want to pay off their mortgage because they want to get the tax deduction. Sure, you save some money in taxes, but you pay a larger amount overall in interest.

"Working For Yourself" also includes a good discussion about car expense deductions and travel and entertainment deductions, which many consultants have.

Overall, "Working For Yourself" is a great book for freelancers and independent consultants who want to learn about the basic recordkeeping, taxation, and legal issues of running such a company.

Peter Hupalo, Author of "How To Start And Run Your Own Corporation: S-Corporations For Small Business Owners"

Great for Software Contractors
I am a software contractor looking at incorporating. I had looked at LLC options, but some clients require incorporating, so that was ruled out. My best route seemed to be S-Corp. This book answered most of my questions. The "Incorporating Your Business, for Dummies" was pretty good, but not as good as this book. This book has a lot of details and laid some of my worries to rest. It will also save money with your professional team (attorney, accountant) by answering simple, but essential, questions. Definitely worth the money.

superb
if you're even thinking of doing your own taxes; or wondering whether or not to incorporate; or just need some standard contracts; BUY THIS BOOK.

If you already have a great lawyer and a great accountant, than this book is probably redundant. ... Read more

Book Description

Here's the classic "bible" of forms and checklists for every situation a professional photographer may face.Thoroughly expanded and updated to cover the Internet, this brand-new Third Edition contains 31 forms, each ready-to-use as is, or easily tailoredto fit any situation.Photographers will find contracts for wedding, portrait, and assignment photography; property and model releases, assignment estimates, confirmations, and invoices; delivery memos; license for Web usage; nondisclosure agreements; and much, much more.An accompanying CD-ROM provides electronic versions of these forms, ready to use on both Macs and PCs. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Great Book!
Great book as a reference tool. Why reinvent what others before us have used? Using actual forms and a CD to personalize, this is a great tool for all photographers.

A very good resource.
This book, Business and Legal Forms for Photographers is a very valuable resource. I completely recommend this book for anyone getting into photography as a profession. ... Read more

Book Description

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 LLC
*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 and protect a good name
*resolve legal disputes
*adopt the best customer policies
*enter into strong contracts
*cope with financial problems

The 7th edition provides the latest in law, business and taxes. It features all-new information on buying LLCs and franchises, plus expanded information on complying with ADA requirements and dealing with customers via the Internet. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Just what the doctor ordered!
Nolo's Legal Guide to Starting and Running a Small Business was exactly what I needed to help start my company off on the right foot. I don't have a very strong legal backround and would have been way over my head if I'd tried to forge ahead totally alone but at the same time I didn't want to spend a fortune consulting a lawyer. If you're in a similar situation then Nolo's Legal Guide is the perfect solution. It is well written, well organized, thorough, and very easy to use. It's a great general start-up kit that would be helpful to any fledgling business that I can think of. If I had had to call a lawyer to answer every legal question that arose in the first couple of months (a huge number) then my company may easily have never gotten off the ground. I was so pleased with this product that I have since purchased two more Nolo books (Tax Savvy for Small Business and The Employer's Legal Handbook) that are more directed at business owners who have gotten through the initial start-up phase. Both of these books are also excellent and I would recommend them as follow ups to the Legal Guide to Starting and Running a Small Business.

Complete Legal guide for STARTING a business.
There are several books in the market on how to incorporate your company based on the state. Even though there is an advantage to these books as you get state specific information for filing paperwork to incorporate, usually there isn't any other information in these books that you can use.

This Nolo guide on the other hand stays kind of generic in the sense that they don't spend too much time in how to fill out the incorporation forms and where to file. Instead, they give good information on every subject you would need to research when starting a small business.

The book starts off by explaining the different legal forms of corporate entities you can choose for your business and details each of these forms in the next three chapters. After this, there are more than 20 chapters devoted to almost any kind of situation you may encounter. For example - there is a chapter on Resolving Legal Disputes, a chapter on Small Business Contracts, a chapter on Home Based Business, etc. Some of the topics I had no prior knowledge of and gained tremendously from - Retail Pricing and Return Practices, Zoning Laws, Deducting Expenses for Business Use of Your Home, Workers' Compensation, Thirteen Common Sources of Money, and Strong and Weak Trademarks.

This is a good book to read when you are STARTING your own business. After that, you will probably need to research more into the topics that are relevant to your situation. Otherwise, there wouldn't be so many different legal guides that small businesses can use (from Nolo). Obviously, as your particular situation becomes more unique you need to refer to the specific books that have an advanced treatment of that topic. And finally, it is always better to seek a lawyer's help after being aware of the basics of the Law.

As usual, Nolo does a fantastic job of covering a broad range of topics in a very detailed fashion without losing the reader's attention. There are a lot of examples to explain the various topics and everything is in plain English. I especially like the references to the IRS forms and publications you need in various circumstances. When you go to the IRS website, it isn't clear which form is relevant to you. It's neat that Nolo makes sure to reference the right form when they are discussing a particular subject.

I hope your small business succeeds and that you find this book helpful in getting things started. Be sure to check out the other Nolo books when you are past the initial stages and definitely build a good working relationship with a trustworthy lawyer for times of need. Good luck! ... Read more

Book Description

This bestseller covers how to set up a limited liability company in any state, without the aid of an attorney, including how to:

• choose a valid LLC name
• prepare and file Articles of Organization with the reader's Secretary of State
• set up a member-run or manager-run LLC
• take care of ongoing legal and tax paperwork.

The book demystifies IRS tax classification rules for limited liability companies, as well as state-specific laws and other information for all 50 states. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Not enough for the price
This book has a good explanation of the ins and outs of forming an LLC. However, in most cases, you create an LLC by filling the blanks in a state form, and then optionally create an Operating Agreement by filling in the blanks in a sample version included in the book.

The value of this book is in the state-by-state reference and in the sample Operating Agreement (and accompanying explanations). It doesn't tell you much of anything about what else you need to do to start a business or run it, referring you to other books written by the author.

Given the relatively light content, I wouldn't have expected it to be on the high end price range of Nolo's offerings. The book's real value for me was filling in some gaps in Nolo's excellent "Small Business Start-Up Kit for California" by Peri Pakroo.

Very helpful
After searching the internet and carefully reading information available here at Amazon and not getting anywhere, I was able to find out about this great book from a chance meeting with a successful businessman in a book store.

This book is very complete and up to date. I am very satisfied with the contents. On the other hand, I have bought some very heavily promoted books here at Amazon and was vastly dissappointed.

I don't know who is pushing those books, but I doubt if they have read or applied any of the information.

Some other books that I do recommend are How To Form Your Own "S" Corporation and avoid double taxation by Robert Friedman, How To Form and Operate a Limited Liability Company by Gregary Damman, Nolo's Quick LLC by Anthony Mancuso, How To Use Limited Liability Companies by Garret Sutton and How To Launch a Business and Incorporate in Any State by J.W.Dicks.

Don't start a business without it!
This book was a life-saver! Unless you have thousands of dollars lying around to waste on legal fees, I strongly recommend you pick up this book. Its step-by-step, plain english instructions and form-filled CD-ROM make it super-easy to use. It gives you all of the information you'll need both to start up your LLC and to maintain it once its established. Mancuso walks you though every step from naming your LLC, to preparing an Operating Agreement, to taking care of the endless legal and tax paperwork.
And I'm not just talking hypothetically, I used this book to form my own LLC and personally know three other business owners who have used it either when starting up or while switching from a partnership to and LLC. My company is going strong and thanks to this book I get both the flexibility of a partnership and the protection of a corporation. This is a great buy!

Same Info Is Easily Available Elsewhere (On web)
Somewhat useful book in that it pulls together the info that is readily available on the internet, particularly from state government websites.

Waste of money for Illinois LLCs
I needed a book to guide me in forming an Illinois LLC after I had done research to determine the pros and cons of the structure. In other words, I needed a good rundown of the potential options for an operating agreement, and I needed clear instruction on the application/filing process.

This book was too generic on operations, and the actual formation of an LLC in Illinois requires one form and a check, but the book's description of the filing process for Illinois was not clear.

I noticed another book which goes through an operating agreement almost clause by clause - it was cheaper, too, but I have forgotten which book that one is. I wish I had bought that one. ... Read more

Book Description

An interior designer's best work is often measured by abstract standards.The designer's talent and skill can dazzle the eyes and win clients, but creative ability is not enough to ensure long-term success.The less glamorous side of interior design is one ofnegotiations, contracts, and finances.A designer ill-prepared to cope with the inevitable business and legal complications ultimately loses time and money, but now help is on the way.Attorney Tad Crawford and design business professional Eva Doman Bruck have teamed to provide interior designers with Business and Legal Forms for Interior Designers, a powerful new resource for building the the foundation for a successful design business. ... Read more

Book Description

Many people dream of going into business with friends. The Partnership Book shows how to turn that dream into a sound partnership agreement.

The book thoroughly explains the legal and practical issues involved in forming a partnership. In plain English, it covers:

* partnerships compared to other business forms * the financial and tax liability of partners * contributions of cash, property and services * what happens if a partner wants out * how to value partnership assets * admitting new partners * buying out a partner's interest * death of a partner * limited partnerships * and much more

In print for over 20 years, the 6th edition of The Partnership Book is totally revised and updated to reflect the law and realities of today's business world. All the forms for creating a partnership agreement are provided as tear-outs and on CD-ROM. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Excellant Book, but......
I read the book and found it very helpful with my plan to form a real estate parnership. I found the examples at the end of each subjet very helpful. However, it seems the authors went to a great length to demonstrate to readers that they are NOT gender biased, to the point where one would find himself sometimes cringing. Their objective could have been attained better by replacing all the He, she, him, her, with "he/she" or "him/her", and let each readers to choose the jender for themselves.

All-Encompassing Book on Partnerships
I found this title to be all-encompassing if you're considering entering into a partnership - whether it's an existing partnership or whether you're starting up a new partnership. In fact, I purchased another title on this same topic and I ended up returning it because I didn't see where it covered anything that wasn't already covered in The Partnership Book. I feel much more comfortable entering into a partnership after reading this book as I feel that I now have the necessary information to make proper decisions. I strongly urge anyone considering entering into a partnership to read this book. ... Read more

Book Description

This text surveys the extensive and growing body of law regulating the employment relationship and influencing virtually every area of human resource practice. Each chapter explicitly considers the implications of the law for human resource practices. Chapters are organized around specific human resource practices. ... Read more

Book Description

If you’re a business owner, incorporation can help you protect your personal assets and cut down your tax bill. But all the paperwork and legalese can make incorporation seem like more trouble than it’s worth. Incorporating Your Business For Dummies offers all the savvy tips you need to get incorporated — starting today!

Whether your business is big or small, incorporating isn’t as simple as it could be. This handy reference makes incorporation make sense, and guides you through the process step by step. From handling the mountain of paperwork to getting back to business once you’re finished, Incorporating Your Business For Dummies offers a wealth of helpful advice on these and many more topics:

• Knowing whether or not incorporation can help you
• Choosing the type of entity that will work best for your business
• Dealing with shareholders and shareholder agreements
• Transferring money and assets in or out of the corporation
• Documenting corporate actions and maintaining compliance
• Finding the right attorney, accountant, tax advisor, and other professionals

Written by the experts at The Company Corporation, who handle more than 100,000 incorporations every year, this helpful book offers the kind of advice you can only get from professionals — but in a user-friendly, lingo-free format. Whether you just want a little help with the paperwork, or don’t even know what a corporation is, you’ll find everything you need to know:

• What limited liability means
• Corporate statutes, bylaws, and articles
• Choosing directors and assigning duties
• The benefits of S corporation status
• Deciding where to incorporate
• Registering corporate names and domain names
• Balancing equity versus debt
• Understanding shareholder rights
• Getting your financial information in order
• Hiring a professional to help with corporate compliance

If you want step-by-step help on setting up your corporation, dealing with the paperwork, and getting off on the right foot, Incorporating Your Business For Dummies is the only resource you need. Packed with the kind of tips and advice you’ll find nowhere else, it’s the uncomplicated way to get incorporated. ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Good as a starter, but you will need more.
Inc for Dummies is not just for dummies, it is a good book on How To Incorporate, but you will need more.

Some additional books icnlude How To Incorporate: A Handbook for Entrpreneurs and Professionals by Michael R. Diamond. How To Incorporate in Any State: Everything You Need to Form a Corporation by W. Dean Brown. S- Corporations by Robert Cooke.

Form Your Own Corporation and Launch a Business in Any State and The Small Business Kit by J.W. Dicks.

Use the dummies book as a starter guide. Use the other books for the real meaty information. Be careful what you buy, the marketplace is proliferated with books by self proclaimed experts who read a lot but have no real world experience.

Good book on how to incorporate your business
I bought this book along with Rich Dad's Advisors; Own Your Own Corporation by Garrett Sutton.

Incorporating Your Business for Dummies is a good book for the average reader. This book shows how to protect personal assets, save on taxes, set up your board of directors, conduct meetings and more.

I especially enjoyed the part on how to create tax free medical benefits, pension and retirement plans. Very informative.

For even more information, I recommend "Own Your Own Corporation" by Garrett Sutton and "How To Start a S Corporation" by Robert Cooke.

Lots of Incorrect Information
This book is in a word HORRIBLE. Some of this information is dangerous to someone starting up a business because it is incorrect. Unfortunately, the Wiley Dummy series hires low end authors who aren't experts and don't research the topics.

The tax information on how to pay yourself a salary from a Subchapter S corporation is just plain wrong. The authors also fail to point out that if your revenues are over $85,000, you should strongly consider a C corporation. This is advantageous for various reasons, none of which you will find in this waste of a good forest.

just the tip of the iceberg
In order to maintain the legal status of your corporation, you need to pass very specific resolutions and keep very specific records. I had hoped for a "cookbook" for setting up my corporation, but this is not it.

The info on corporate structures is very basic - you could easily find this level of detail on the web. The bulk of the book is very general... it mentions what you must do, but doesn't tell you how.

Get the *basics* from your lawyer or accountant, then buy The Corporate Minutes Book by Anothony Mancuso instead of this book!

Good book for those contemplating a corporation
If you are contemplating starting a business and therefore a corporation, this book is a great first start. As with all of the dummy series books, the authors feel that people reading these books are brand new and know nothing. So this gives even the most naive a good start on how to incorporate.

So much of the information is basic and since the book was written awhile ago, some of the material may be dated. Nonetheless, good first start for business people.

Other good books include How To Start a S-Corporation by Robert Cooke and Brilliant Deductions by Wade Cook. The latter shows a way to drop out of the social security system and offers a good section on Nevada Corporations. ... Read more

Book Description

With an introduction by Robert T. Kiyosaki Since failing to know the rules can lead to disaster, this book will familiarize readers with the basics they need for protecting their company's critically important rights involving copyright, patents, trademarks, and all other aspects of intellectual property.

Learn How to:
- Turn your ideas into intellectual property assets
- Identify and benefit from potential intellectual property assets that you may already own
- Avoid inadvertently giving away your rights
- Use your intellectual property to build barriers to your competition
- Generate cash flow by licensing your intellectual properties to others
- Use intellectual property to aid in raising capital, and as an alternative to raising capital ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Not the best...somewhat incomplete...gives broad brush
Frankly speaking, I am quite disappointed with this book.

When I bought this book, I had the impression that it is about the protection of intellectual capital. Also, I was attracted to the book because of an introduction by Robert Kiyosaki, whose work I am very familiar.

Although the book gives a broad brush about intellectual property (IP) protection from many different perspectives, and offers some useful guidelines to help protect your intellectual interests, it is somewhat incomplete as far as the protection of ideas or intellectual capital is concerned.

It does not give any specific illustration and/or example on how to protect your intellectual capital from the standpoint of goodwill, reputation, expertise, (especially accumulated practical skills), data and know-how...more specifically, your ideas and/or "working methodologies" which are embodied in products and services.

Take an example from the book, on page 58, under Utility Patent Protection, the author talked about:

"Business method is patentable if:

- it produces a useful, concrete, and tangible result; and
- it is novel and not obvious;

but the book stops short of giving specific business cases or product examples to illustrate this key point. This is, to me, intellectual capital, and I want to know how to protect it!

As a matter of fact, the author talked about how he came to know Robert Kiyosaki...from the CashFlow game. Funny enough, the author did not even bother to give any detailed account on the IP protection scheme pertaining to the game. Nothing at all, period. I thought this would have been a very appropriate subject, because of the need for the protection of intellectual capital behind the development of the game - and the gameplay procedure - from pirates.

The book listed a lot of other IP stuff, which were not covered in the book, but the author directed the reader to his website. For example, the author introduced his IP self-audit checklist, among other things, which sounds interesting. When I checked his website, I realised I had to fork out US$129/- to buy a CD-ROM containing the stuff.

My overall personal impression of the book is that both Michael Lechter and Robert Kiyosaki are using each other to sell each other's products and services! (which are well-illustrated on many end pages of the book!) The poor reader is expected to fork out more effort and money...maybe that's why the Rich Dad series of products are so lucrative for the author.

On the whole, this book falls short of my personal expectations. I am very disappointed with the author and also, Robert Kiyosaki.

To be fair to the author, I feel that the book, even though it is incomplete from my personal viewpoint, still provides a broad-brush about IP, - especially on copyrights, patents,and trademarks, - from many different perspectives.

The First of Its Kind
Intellectual property (patents, trademarks, copyrights and trade secrets) is one of the most valuable assets of any business, whether it be a start-up or large multi-national. Business people, however, who are already overextended, usually don't have time to learn intellectual property basics or how to utilize intellectual property to maximize profits. Mike Lechter's book is the first to cut through the jargon and explain in plain English how to recognize and protect valuable intellectual property. The reader receives a solid, working knowledge of all aspects of intellectual property law complete with examples. A powerful business tool for corporate professionals and entrepreneurs.

A great book that covers a lot of ground
This book was an extremely helpful book for me because of the fact that it covers so many different areas of intellectual property protection. Because it covers so much and so many different types of intellectual property protection, it is a book that really makes you think about all the possibilities. I like the fact that it is very broad. Considering that the book is written by an attorney who is bound by the rules of ethics not to disclose his client's confidential matters, I found the book to have ample specifics and examples of different types of intellectual property protection.

My personal impression is that it is a book that can help business owners looking to protect their intellectual property as well as those who are interested in a more scholarly approach. That is the genius of this book. It can be very useful to many different kinds of readers. I think that even a lot of attorneys who practice in different areas of the law would probably find this book extremely valuable. That is a great complement to the author.

As the title indicates, it makes you realize that your intellectual property is really your number one asset.

Teaches the basics, if you can get through it
Background: I've read all of the RD books, 6 of the Rich Dad's Advisors series, and other books by the RDA authors. For all of the RD/RDA books, I have found the conversational style to be very readable and an effective manner in which to convey information. With this book, however, it was a struggle to get through it. In terms of readability and value, this is the worst RD book I've read.

Coverage of Material: I am not knowledgable about IP law, and I felt that this book provided a basic coverage of the issues.

Organization: One frustration I had was that a lot of material was repeated, and obviously so. Rather than organizing the book in a more efficient manner, the author instead chose to repeat certain passages. When I've paid for a book, I don't care for the same half-page passage repeated three or four times.

Writing Style: The first part of the book was well written. I especially liked the initial horror stories and phone conversation, both of which were written in a conversational style. If that style had been maintained throughout the book, I would have given it 4 or 5 stars. However, the writing quickly degraded to being almost unbearable. Some parts of the book were written with a condescending tone, and it seemed that Mr. Lechter was stroking his ego. I also found the lengthy discussion on the Internet's structure to be tedious and unnecessary, perhaps a filler to increase the page count. This information was not relevant to the subject; a one or two page summary of the Internet would have been sufficient.

Other Comments: I've enjoyed Robert Kiyosaki's books, but as a whole they are full of contradicting information. This book was no exception. In the foreword, Mr. Kiyosaki uses the same quote three times, wording it differently each time, and giving two different references (Rich Dad for two, himself for one).

Bottom Line: I read this book because I want to read all of the Rich Dad and Rich Dad's Advisors books. In general, although a few of them are blatant advertisements, I've learned something from each one. In the case of this book, I would strongly suggest you find an alternative, unless you want this book because of the series affiliation. Legal primers available online provide a better value.

A "MUST READ" for any business person, inventor, or author
Micheal Lechter has done us all a valuable favor by writing this book! As an experienced attorney dealing with copyrights, patents, and trademarks, his experience, illustrations and insights are priceless! If you are a business owner, investor, inventor, author, or doing just about ANYTHING that has income potential beyond a 9-5 job, then you NEED to read, absorb and apply the knowledge of this book to protect yourself from the competition and "thieves" out there who would like to profit from your intellectual property--at YOUR expense. This is a "must read" as a part of your overall business and investment education. I also recommend ALL of Robert Kiyosaki's "Rich Dad" books, and thus far, all the "Rich Dad Advisor" series that I have read (of which this book is a part) are also worthy of your time and investment. ... Read more

Book Description

Most organizations trying to gain legal nonprofit status don't have the money to pay a lawyer thousands of dollars for help. Fortunately, they don't have to.

How to Form a Nonprofit Corporation in California includes complete instructions for obtaining federal 501(c)(3) tax-exemption and for qualifying for public charity status with the IRS. It also provides:

*line-by-line instructions for completing your application
*instructions and completed sample clauses for preparing articles of incorporation
*ready-to-use bylaws for membership and non-membership nonprofits
*ready-to-use minutes for the organizational meeting
*sheets with California's specific legal and tax requirements

The 10th edition provides several new and revised forms as tear-outs and on CD-ROM, and is completely updated to provide the latest rules and regulations. It also shows you how to register your nonprofit for only $30.

This book is also available as a corporate records binder. Look up The California Nonprofit Corporation Kit for more details. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Great Guidance!
Using this book and the CDRom we were able to learn exactly what we needed to do and how to complete all the paperwork necessary to obtain our nonprofit status. It will be a wonderful reference as our group goes through the normal process of growth and change.

Esential for staring a nonprofit organization
I am working with a group in Sacramento to start a nonprofit French cultural group and school. Others suggested this jewel from Nolo press and it has been extrodinary. Initially, I checked it out from the library and found it so useful, I am purchasing it. The CD ROM provides all form letters and forms essential to register the organization. From state tax exemption, to federal tax exemption, to establishing a name and reduced tarriff postage, it's all there. They also provide step by step instructions to completing the dizzying federal tax exemption forms which will reduce days of your prep time. I strongly recommend this book! ... Read more

Book Description

Trademarks -- the names and symbols that identify your business, brand and products in the marketplace --are important assets that you need to choose carefully, then vigilantly protect.

With Trademark, you get the most up-to-date information you need to defend your creations. Learn how to:

*choose distinctive marks that competitors can't copy
*search for other marks that might conflict with your own
*register your name or other mark with the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office (USPTO)

*protect your marks from use by others and maintain their legal strength
*understand and resolve trademark disputes outside the courtroom
*apply trademark law to domain names and web pages

Thoroughly revised and updated, the latest edition of Trademark provides all new information regarding the latest domain names, changes to the USPTO's electronic trademark programs, new electronic forms for various marks, new information on the Federal Dilution Act -- and much more. It also includes a new glossary of trademark terms.

Includes all necessary forms and step-by-step instructions to register a mark with the USPTO. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Very useful background information for laymen
This is a great resource for marketing professionals, entrepreneurs, and non-trademark attorneys to understand the basics of trademark law. However, this book is no substitute for professional legal advice from an experienced trademark attorney when it comes to protection a property that is becoming scarce and more valuable as business migrates into the online world.

Invaluable resource for folks starting a new business.
If I'd read this book before starting my business several years ago, I would have saved thousands of dollars invested in a company name (letterheads, business cards, brochures, advertising, etc.) I discovered was really not mine to use. For those who are serious about building a business in today's global, electronic marketplace, it's absolutely essential the name of your business be strong,well-protected and NOT THE LEGAL PROPERTY OF SOMEONE ELSE. This book will give you the basic knowledge to get off on the right foot. And it will save you huge legal fees today and in the future. ... Read more

Book Description

A must-have guide that enables managers and trustees of private foundations, as well as their lawyers and accountants, to successfully navigate today’s increasingly complex tax laws and reporting requirements

Private foundations are the most regulated of nonprofit organizations. Burdened with laws written over thirty years ago, which have become more complex and intricate, private foundations are forced to operate in a harsh legal environment. An operational or reporting mistake, no matter how innocent or inadvertent, can lead to immense tax and other penalties.

To reap the charitable, tax, and other economic advantages of private foundations while avoiding the perils lurking in the myriad of tax-law traps, you must be fully informed about the basic legal requirements and the many subtleties and current developments affecting private foundations.

Written by two of today’s leading authorities on the laws regulating private foundations, The Legal Answer Book for Private Foundations provides this critical information in an efficient and comprehensible fashion. In clear, easy-to-understand language, the authors provide expert guidance on everything from how to set up a private foundation to how assets are invested, how funds are distributed to grantees, and how to avoid self-dealing.

You’ll find answers to such critical questions as:

• What are the legal definitions of private foundation and public charity, and what constitutes a disqualified person?
• Just what are the private foundation rules and what are the penalties for violating them?
• What assets are involved in the calculations of the mandatory payout requirement?
• How are self-dealing rules avoided?
• What is an excess business holding?
• Do foundations have to file annual returns with the IRS?
• What are the alternatives to private foundations?

With the increasing opportunities for the establishment of private foundations, The Legal Answer Book for Private Foundations is an invaluable resource that is mandatory reading for anyone contemplating creation of a foundation or managing or advising an existing foundation. ... Read more

Book Description

The essential resource for nonprofit success

For everyone from nonprofit novices to sophisticated directors of established organizations, this expert guide to nonprofit law provides all the critical information and know-how executives and other leaders need to succeed, thrive, and protect any nonprofit’s tax-exempt status.Written by Bruce Hopkins, the country’s leading legal authority in the field, this Fourth Edition of Starting and Managing a Nonprofit Organization: A Legal Guide covers the breadth of legal aspects of starting and operating a nonprofit organization.This latest edition’s revisions include updated material on changes in laws, rules, and regulations governing the nonprofit sector.

Starting and Managing a Nonprofit Organization: A Legal Guide, Fourth Edition provides:

Practical guidance on the rules and regulations governing nonprofit organizations, including corporate, tax, and fundraising law applications and implications

Up-to-date information on reporting revenue, private benefit, intermediate sanctions, supporting organizations, and the commerciality doctrine

New material on advocacy communications by exempt organizations, the political organization’s notice and reporting requirements, and the use by exempt organizations of limited liability companies

Insight into the newly emerging law concerning involvement of exempt organizations in joint ventures

Checklists, step-by-step guidance to procedures, and a glossary of legal terms for fail-safe compliance

Written by a lawyer for non-lawyers, this easy-to-read book is an invaluable resource for nonprofit executives and managers, fundraising professionals, trustees, consultants, committed volunteers, and anyone involved in the complex, rewarding world of nonprofit organizations. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A Rosetta Stone for legally-challenged nonprofit trustees
I will begin with two disclaimers: I do not work for nor have any affiliation with the publisher, John Wiley & Sons, Inc (I am not a "corporate shill"). Notwithstanding that I would consider it an honor, I do not know nor have I ever met the author.

As an independent consultant providing philanthropic and nonprofit investment management consulting to the trustees of personal, fiduciary and institutional trusts, it is critical that I have expert resources available to provide timely and cutting-edge advisory.

I read voluminously, and my experience is simply this: in the world of nonprofit legal advisory, there is Hopkins, and everybody else.

I believe that success in any field of professional advisory is founded on specialization. This is another outstanding work by the pre-eminent legal expert specializing in advising charitable and educational organizations, associations, colleges, universities, hospitals, religious organizations, associations, and private foundations.

"Starting and Managing ..." is an essential resource in my nonprofit library; I recommend it to my clients as a "Rosetta stone" for translating the Byzantine intricacies of the Internal Revenue Code into a summary of the laws that affect the operation of nonprofit organizations.

If you have questions related to the establishment and qualification for tax exemption of nonprofit organizations, the establishment and operation of charitable fund-raising programs, and advice on matters such as public charity/private foundation qualification, the unrelated business income rules, and the involvement of nonprofits in partnerships and other joint ventures ... and need answers in non-legalese, rest easy: you have found your resource.
_____

1 My "due diligence" research on the author yielded the following: Hopkins is author of eight books (three of which are annually supplemented): The Law of Tax-Exempt Organizations (6th ed. 1992); The Legal Answer Book for Nonprofit Organizations (1996); The Nonprofit Law Dictionary (1994); A Legal Guide to Starting and Managing a Non-Profit Organization (2d ed. 1994); The Tax Law of Charitable Giving (1993); Charity, Advocacy, and the Law (1992); The Law of Fund-Raising (2d ed. 1996) (winner in the first edition of the first annual National Society of Fund Raising Executives/Staley/Robeson/Ryan/St. Lawrence Research Award); and Charity Under Siege: Government Regulation of Fund-Raising (1980) (which was selected by the NSFRE as one of the 25 books most favorably affecting fund-raising). He is co-author of a book titled The Law of Tax-Exempt Healthcare Organizations (1995). He writes a monthly newsletter titled 'The Nonprofit Counsel" and a bimonthly newsletter titled 'The Fund-Raising Regulation Report." John Wiley & Sons, Inc., New York, New York, publishes these books and newsletters. He is Editor of Wiley's Nonprofit Law, Finance, and Management Series.

Hopkins is a member of the Legal Section Council of the American Society of Association Executives. He served as Chair of the Committee on Exempt Organizations, Section on Taxation, American Bar Association; Chair of the Section of Taxation, National Association of College and University Attorneys: and President, Planned Giving Study Group of Greater Washington, D.C. He was appointed to the IRS Exempt Organizations Advisory Group in 1 987 and was accorded the Assistant Commissioner's (IRS) Award in 1984.

Hopkins graduated from the University of Michigan in 1964. He received his law degree from the George Washington University National Law Center in 1967, and masters of law degree in taxation from the Center in 1971. ... Read more

Book Description

Everything necessary to start up a small business partnership. ... Read more

Book Description

If you're like many entrepreneurs, being in business means working with one or more co-owners. But what will happen to your company if a co-owner:

*wants out of the business?
*wants to retire?
*goes through personal bankruptcy?
*wants to sell his shares to someone else?
*goes through a divorce?
*passes away?

To make sure there's a smooth transition following someone's departure, it's essential that you create a sort of "premarital agreement" for your business with a buy-sell agreement. This legal document clarifies when co-owners can sell their interest, the circumstances when someone must sell, who can buy into the business and what price will be paid.

Buy-Sell Agreement Handbook walks you through creating your own buy-sell agreement, which is included on CD-ROM and as a tear-out. It provides all the tax and legal information you need at every step.

The 2nd edition, completely revised and updated, covers the latest estate-tax changes and how your agreement can affect your estate taxes. ... Read more

Book Description

If you dream of starting a business, but fear that without an MBA you'll get lost in the maze of government red tape, here's the handbook you need.

Step-by-step, The Small Business Start-Up Kit for California outlines how to set up your enterprise in the Golden State quickly and easily, pointing out the hurdles, fees and forms along the way. Clear and straight to the point, the book explains how to:

*choose the best business structure
*write an effective business plan
*file the right forms in the right place
*be prepared for, and file, the required taxes
*acquire good bookkeeping and accounting habits

The 5th edition reflects the latest legal and tax changes. It also provides a completely revised chapter on risk management and insurance, plus a new chapter on pricing, bidding and billing. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

excellent for starters
This book is easy to read and follow. It has a complete list of things you need to do to set up your own business and some good advices. Highly recommended!

Excellent tutorial and reference
Everything you need to know about starting a small business in California is in here. What legal structure to choose, which agencies you need to deal with, what forms you need and where to get them, web addresses, phone numbers, and all the details.

It also has a wealth of information on running a business, including information on accounting, taxation, and employees. It's well organized and easy to read.

The only gaps are in some of the details on forming LLCs and corporations. The reader is referred to other Nolo books for the gritty details. If you're forming a partnership or sole proprietorship -- probably the most common types for "cottage industry" -- the book is reasonably complete.

Excellent Book
This is my first book review, because this is the first book I've purchased where I've truly felt moved to tell people how excellent it is. If you are starting up a small business in California, this book is invaluable. It tells you where to find all of the information you'll need to start up your business, in easy to understand terms. Also includes a CD-ROM with lots of forms. All of her advice is really helpful and I find myself going back to the book all the time. Just knowing it's there makes me feel better!

She includes URLs to web sites with information - and even tells you what other books to get on a subject she doesn't cover too in-depth. And all the information you need is easy to find.

5 stars!

FINALLY, A BUSINESS START UP BOOK FOR THE REST OF US
Well worth the price! It answered every question I had -- and answered a lot of questions I hadn't even thought about. Really easy to understand and set up in a smart way - going through the steps you would when creating a business. The section on "hobby or business" is the best explanation I ever read about that stuff. Much better than going to a lawyer and has lots of first person battle stories. Even if you've got a Cal business going -- this book is still cool!! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Bisk = Big Time
Let me tell you a story, bub. It's a story about broken hearts and unkept promises. It's about nights in seedy hotels and days spent in the 12 Mile Tavern with nothing but a smudged glass and 50 cents to whittle the day away. That's what this book is, baby. The hard life. None of that fancy, high-falootin Manhattan spunk here. It don't fly with me and it don't fly with Nathan M. Bisk, I'll tell ya that right now. ... Read more