Book Review: The Entrepreneur's Guide to Business Law

The Entrepreneur's Guide to Business Law by Bagley and Dauchy

I'll add my praise for this book to the already large mix.

I never thought a book on business law could be so fascinating! I have learned the true beauty of law--the artistry, power, and strategy involved in a successful business.

The book covers topics on:

• Invention Assignment Agreements and Works Made for Hire (when employed and employing)
• NDAs
• Working cost-effectively with attorneys (and choosing them!)
• Forms of Business Entity
• Ownership structure
• Raising Money
• Board formation and dealing
• Contracts, leases, etc
• Intellectual Property
• And so many more!
  

Sound "legal engineering" can make or break a company.  In my young and relatively inexperienced opinion, entrepreneurs should take the extra time and effort to cover their asses by (1) reading this book and (2) acting on its advice.  While there is a lot an entrepreneur can do on their own, as far as setting up a legal framework, "consulting an experienced attorney" is always preferable (if you can afford it).

Craig Newmark's careless mindset when starting craigslist has caused him a lot of unnecessary hardship: first, giving away a large portion of his company to an early employee who sold it to eBay and now this.

"Failure to prepare is preparation for failure" - John Wooden