Starting up

Two business people in blue shirts working together at a table

Article

Essential guide to forming a business

When you set up your business, it pays to get the legal structure right from the start. Read our guide to your options and what you need to consider.

Sector specific law

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Article

Farrier legal issues

Some of the key areas where legislation is likely to affect your farrier business.

Business ownership and management

Man and a woman stood at the front of a family dry-cleaning business

FAQs

Family businesses FAQs

Advantages of using family members as employees and directors include high levels of commitment, sense of shared values, and a long-term perspective.

Finance and business strategy

Employment law

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FAQs

Managing pregnant employees FAQs

Frequently asked questions about how to manage pregnant employees in the workplace, and employee rights to maternity leave and pay

Marketing and selling

Contracts, disputes

Commercial premises law

Road sign saying High Street

Article

RICS Small business property guide

When taking on business premises, key issues you may face are choosing premises, negotiating a lease, challenging dilapidations claims, sub-letting.

Health and safety

Data protection and IT

Piracy is a crime

Article

Using software legally

Illegal software can carry viruses as well as leaving you open to prosecution. Make sure you stay within the law when you buy business software.

Intellectual property

Design right and registration FAQs

FAQs

Design right and registration FAQs

The difference between design right and registered designs, how much registration costs and what to do if someone claims the right to your design

Exit strategies

Hands adding up figures and signing document with money on it

Article

Selling a business

Selling your business can be difficult and stressful. This guide will help you find the right buyer, negotiate the sale and complete due diligence.