1. Introduction to Business Law
Summary:
Business law defines the legal boundaries within which businesses must operate. It encompasses
areas like contract law, corporate structures, employment, intellectual property, and consumer
protection. Its main goals are to regulate transactions, resolve disputes, and protect stakeholders.
Q&A:
1. What is business law?
➤ It is the body of law that governs business and commercial transactions.
2. Why is business law important?
➤ It ensures fair practices, protects rights, and facilitates dispute resolution.
3. Name three major branches of business law.
➤ Contract law, company law, and employment law.
4. What is the role of regulatory bodies in business law?
➤ To enforce compliance and penalize violations (e.g., CMA, FCA).
5. How does business law support entrepreneurship?
➤ It creates a legal framework for starting, running, and dissolving businesses.
6. What is the difference between public and private law?
➤ Public law involves government; private law governs relationships between
individuals/entities.
7. How does international law affect businesses?
➤ It governs cross-border transactions, trade, and international disputes.
8. Can business law vary by country?
➤ Yes, every country has its own legal system and business regulations.
9. What is commercial litigation?
➤ Legal disputes arising from business activities.
10. How does business law impact ethical decision-making?
➤ It sets legal boundaries for ethical conduct and corporate responsibility.
2. Types of Business Entities
Summary:
Business structures determine liability, taxation, and legal responsibilities. The common types are:
• Sole Proprietorship – easy to set up, full personal liability.
• Partnership – shared ownership and joint liability.
, • Corporation (Ltd, Plc) – limited liability and separate legal entity.
• LLP – limited liability and partnership structure.
Q&A:
1. What is a sole proprietorship?
➤ A business owned by one individual with unlimited personal liability.
2. Define a partnership.
➤ A business owned by two or more people who share profits and liabilities.
3. What is a company?
➤ A legal entity separate from its owners, with limited liability.
4. What does “limited liability” mean?
➤ Owners are not personally responsible for business debts beyond their investment.
5. What is the role of shareholders in a company?
➤ They invest in the company and receive profits (dividends).
6. What is an LLP?
➤ A Limited Liability Partnership combines partnership benefits with liability protection.
7. Which structure is easiest to set up?
➤ Sole proprietorship.
8. Which entity is subject to corporate tax?
➤ Companies (e.g., Ltd, Plc).
9. What is Companies House?
➤ The UK’s official register of companies.
10. What is the main advantage of a corporation over a partnership?
➤ Limited liability and perpetual existence.
3. Contract Law in Business
Summary:
Contracts are legally enforceable promises between parties. Valid contracts must have:
• Offer
• Acceptance
• Consideration
• Intention to create legal relations
• Legal capacity
Contracts enable trust, structure, and dispute resolution in business.
Q&A: