Business Law

Catalog description

Surveys business law across the spectrum from Main Street to Wall Street. Begins with a hypothetical business established by an entrepreneur in her garage, the evolution of the formation and operation of this business as a sole proprietorship, and a transition of the business to a partnership, LLC and corporation. Follows this venture through the typical legal requirements of picking a name, seeking a trademark, defining ownership, appointing officers and directors, hiring staff, navigating the fiduciary duties owed to owners of the business, protecting intellectual property, raising capital, government regulations and ultimately the structure of a successful exit for the owners by 'going public' or sale of the company. Topics include: taxation, creditors rights, technology transfer, contracts, contemporary issues and current events. Capstone course is designed to assess students' recognition of the intersection of law and business, develop critical thinking skills by use of the case method, encourage speaking and class participation and emphasize writing skills.