Canadian Legal Guide for Small Business

Robert W. Sexty is a professor of commerce and business administration
at Memorial University of Newfoundland and the author of Canadian
Business: Issues and Stakeholders.

Written in jargon-free language by a lawyer who practises corporate and
commercial law, this book is divided into three parts. Part 1 examines
the three forms of business (proprietorship, partnership, and
incorporation), while Part 2 discusses start-up issues, such as choosing
a business name, licenses and permits, and insurance. Part 3, the
longest section, examines intellectual property; contract law; the legal
implications of dealing with consumers, creditors, and employees;
dispute resolution; taxation; and working with a professional adviser.
Included in the book are checklists on legal procedures and 18 sample
agreements, contracts, forms, and letters.

Some topics are ignored or inadequately covered. The discussion of
franchises is too brief, and there is no mention of related legislation.
The implications of international and environmental legislation are not
addressed, and there is no information about identifying and accessing
appropriate legislation. Reference to further information is limited to
several pages of advertisements for the publisher’s other self-help
book. Finally, though there is a detailed table of contents, an index
should have been provided.

Canadian Legal Guide for Small Business is a satisfactory starting
point for entrepreneurs with little or no knowledge of legal matters
relating to small business.