Over 600,000 new businesses open each year, nearly all of which are small businesses. These small business owners are likely to confront a bewildering array of legal questions and problems; ignoring them can lead to disaster, but with lawyers typically charging $200-$300 an hour, hiring one to answer routine legal questions can be a fast track to the poorhouse, especially in today’s economic climate.Fortunately, there is an alternative. Legal Guide for Starting & Running a Small Business provides a wealth of practical and legal information on everything from choosing a business structure to insurance and tax rules—it even provides tips on creating a home-based business. Written in plain-English, it explains how to: • raise start-up money • choose between a sole proprietorship, partnership or LLC • obtain licenses and permits • buy or sell a business or franchise • negotiate a favorable lease • insure the business • hire independent contractors, safely • understand small business tax rules • adopt the best customer policies • cope with financial problems and resolve legal disputes Also included are helpful suggestions for further resources.The 11th edition is completely updated and revised to provide the latest regulations, tax numbers and business realities. Read Less