They usually summarize the law and contain compliance checklists. Compliance failures can result in bad publicity, distracting lawsuits, and costly fines. Your lawyer can recommend inexpensive legal handbooks that are available. A typical handbook is about 100 pages long and provides practical guidance on how to comply with the law. The handbooks are intended as reference guides to be kept handy on desktops and credenzas.
Some companies distribute legal handbooks to all employees while other companies limit distribution.
Contracts Prevent Legal Problems Contracts provide an important opportunity for you to prevent legal problems. Your lawyer can help you to negotiate contracts that will protect your rights and help you avoid disputes with your suppliers and customers. For major equipment purchases or when buying a business, your lawyer can help you prepare a letter of intent that avoids unintended liabilities. Letters of intent are frequently used when negotiations are just beginning to document the basic terms of the business deal and to simplify further negotiations. A carelessly drawn letter of intent can subject your company to damaging lawsuits.