The Upstart Small Business Legal Guide , unlike any other book for small business owners, features the following:

• Ready-to-use forms with explanations of how and when to use them
• Checklists for getting started in business, purchasing a business, paying taxes, buying real estate, negotiating leases, and maintaining employee benefit plans
• Worksheets for computing start-up expenses
• Tips on how to save legal costs and taxes
• Tips on how to avoid lawsuits and legal hassles
• Recent decisions by federal and state courts throughout the United States explained in laypersons' terms
• Tips on how to make the most economical use of an attorney's services
• Definitions of legal terminology in plain language
• Money-saving and money-making ideas on a broad range of topics of concern to small business owners
• Cross-references to other relevant sections of the book, because every area of the law is affected by at least one other area of the law. This cross-referencing technique will enable you to analyze problems and think them through like a lawyer does!
• Resource lists to help you find additional information
• Warnings about extremely dangerous legal pitfalls
• Hot Sites link you to useful Web sites.

To make the most effective use of your new legal guide, be certain that you follow these guidelines:

• Review the "Checklist for Getting Started in Business" in Chapter 2 to determine what you must do to establish your business on a sound footing.
• Read the chapters cross-referenced in the checklist.
• Determine which situations require the advice of an attorney.
• Estimate your monthly expenses and the cost of furniture, fixtures, and equipment by using the worksheets.
• The "How and When to Use the Forms in This Chapter" section at the beginning of each set of forms will alert you to which forms are necessary for the procedure you have in mind.
• Make sure that you fill in the blanks on any form you use. Delete material that does not apply to your situation, and make certain that you have all necessary parties sign the form.
• Keep copies of all contracts, tax returns, and forms.
• File the forms with the appropriate agency.