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 $200-$300 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 new edition updates relevant legal and tax information, such as state drug and alcohol testing laws, environmental regulations, and restrictions on home businesses, as well as provides practical advice on topics such as current trends in raising start-up money, purchasing insurance, and extending credit.