Legal Basics for Startups

This course offers a clear, step-by-step breakdown of the essential legal considerations entrepreneurs face when starting and running a business. It begins with choosing the right business structure — sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, or corporation — and explains how each impacts liability, taxes, and control. Learners then dive into registering a business, obtaining licenses, and understanding regulatory compliance. The course covers contract essentials, including elements of enforceability, key clauses, and common pitfalls. Intellectual property protection is also discussed, with a focus on trademarks, copyrights, and patents. Students explore employment law basics, including hiring practices, contracts, and workplace policies. Real-world case studies show how early legal decisions can affect long-term business outcomes, from investor readiness to dispute resolution. The course also addresses online business considerations like privacy policies, terms of use, and e-commerce laws. Whether you’re building a startup or growing a small business, this course empowers you to identify legal risks, avoid costly mistakes, and work more effectively with attorneys and advisors.