Your free business.com+ membership unlocks exclusive tech deals and advisor support
Join Free
BDC Hamburger Icon

Menu

Close
BDC Logo with Name
Search Icon
Search Icon
ArrowLegal

Legal

From choosing a business structure to getting the proper licenses and permits, there are a lot of legalities involved in starting and operating a business. Legal hurdles will inevitably arise, so make sure you're prepared by reviewing our resources on business laws, copyright and more.

Latest: Advice, Tips and Resources

Article
6 Benefits of Forming an S Corporation
By Jamie Johnson | October 02, 2026
Setting up your business as an S corp can help you reduce your tax liability and protect your personal assets.
Article
5 Steps to Remove a Shareholder
By Stella Morrison | September 24, 2026
Cutting ties with a shareholder isn't simple, but it can be achieved through these five steps.
Article
Open a Business Bank Account Without an EIN
By Skye Schooley | September 22, 2026
Can you really open a business bank account when you don't have a federal tax ID? Here's what entrepreneurs need to know.
Article
A Crash Course in the Business Legal Terms You Need to Know
By Mark Fairlie | September 18, 2026
From "comparable worth" to "torts," we break down the legal lingo every business owner should know.
person signing a contract
Article
Important Things to Do After Your Trademark Is Registered
By Julie Thompson | September 18, 2026
Protect your brand by staying on top of deadlines and avoiding mistakes.
person signing a contract
Article
Can You Keep a Secret? The Importance of Nondisclosure Agreements
By Kimberlee Leonard | September 04, 2026
Learn how to protect confidential and proprietary information via NDAs.
hands typing on a laptop
Article
Your Record Was Expunged, But It’s Still Online. Now What?
By Chad Brooks | July 10, 2026
If your record was expunged but still appears online, it could have ramifications for your business. Online reputation management services can help.
Article
Trademark Examples: Learn From These Trademark Infringement Cases
By Sean Peek | June 01, 2026
You could be committing trademark infringement without knowing it. Here are several trademark cases to learn from.
Article
Trademark Basics: How to Submit a Trademark
By Max Freedman | February 23, 2026
Learn how to protect your intellectual property with trademarks and how trademarks differ from copyrights.
book
Article
Requirements for Keeping Paycheck Records
By Julie Thompson | January 30, 2026
Employers are required to keep thorough paycheck records, and the rules aren't always simple. Here's what you need to know.
Article
How to Apply for a Copyright Online
By Julianna Lopez | January 29, 2026
Applying for copyright protection online makes it easier than ever to secure your intellectual property.
people talking in a lawyer's office
Best Pick
Best Online Legal Services of 2026
By Max Freedman | January 28, 2026
Rocket Lawyer, LegalZoom and Tailor Brands streamline compliance via legal documents, business registration and registered agent services.
Best Pick
The Best Business Insurance for Entrepreneurs in 2026
By Kimberlee Leonard | January 28, 2026
Compare providers like Hiscox, Progressive and The Hartford offering general liability, workers' comp and tailored small business coverage.
Article
From Collections to Repossession: A Timeline of Debt
By Kiely Kuligowski | January 20, 2026
Debt collection occurs in phases and, although it can seem overwhelming, there are options for relief.
Article
The Most Popular Types of 501(c)s
By Deborah Sweeney | January 15, 2026
If you want to start a 501(c) organization, you should know the different options and the criteria for each type.
Article
What Is OSHA Compliance?
By Max Freedman | January 14, 2026
Learn about Occupational Safety and Health Administration compliance and how it relates to your business.
Article
How Do HIPAA Laws Impact Employers? (HIPAA Compliance Checklist)
By Adam Uzialko | January 12, 2026
When does HIPAA apply to employers, and how should they ensure compliance? This guide answers common employer questions about HIPAA obligations.
Article
Projection Mapping and the Law: What Advertisers Should Know
By Sean Peek | January 09, 2026
Projection mapping is a great form of advertising. However, it’s important to understand the associated legal issues.
people talking in a lawyer's office
Article
How to Handle a Business Lawsuit
By Mark Fairlie | January 07, 2026
Business owners are vulnerable to lawsuits. Learn common lawsuit types as well as how to handle one, deal with insurance and protect your company.
Article
Why You Should Develop a Relationship With a Business Lawyer
By Mark Fairlie | October 24, 2024
Running a company can be overwhelming, but a business lawyer can provide invaluable help and support.
Crazy Chemist
Article
Strange Business Patents of the Year
By Dan Ketchum | October 04, 2023
First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then … well … they might still ignore you.