Do you have a great idea for the next big thing, an eye-catching new corporate logo, or an exciting new business concept? Understand how to safeguard your ideas and creations with this expert guide to the fundamentals of intellectual property. Walking you step-by-step through the processes involved in protecting your great ideas, this book offers all the advice you need to ensure that you're the only one cashing in on your creativity and hard work.

Explore M&A, in simple terms Mergers & Acquisitions For Dummies provides useful techniques and real-world advice for anyone involved with – or thinking of becoming involved with – transactional work. Whether you are a transactions pro, a service provider tangentially involved in transactions, or a student thinking of becoming an investment banker, this book will provide the insights and knowledge that will help you become successful. Business owners and executives will also find this book helpful, not only when they want to buy or sell a company, but if they want to learn more about what improves a company’s value. The evaluation process used by M&A professionals to transact a business sale is often quite different from the processes used by owners and executives to manage those businesses. In plain English terms that anyone can understand, this book details the step-by-step M&A process, describes different types of transactions, demonstrates various ways to structure a deal, defines methods to identify and contact targets, provides insights on how to finance transactions, reveals what helps and hurts a company’s valuation, offers negotiating tips, explains how to perform due diligence, analyzes the purchase agreement, and discloses methods to help ensure the combined companies are successfully integrated. If you’re getting involved with a merger or an acquisition, this book will help you gain a thorough understanding of what the heck is going on. Updates to this second edition include quality of earnings reports, representation and warranty insurance, how to hire investment bankers, changes to the offering documents, the rise of family offices, and the ubiquity of adjusted EBITDA (earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortization) as a basis for valuation. Understand the merger and acquisition process in a simple, easy-to-understand manner Learn the nomenclature and terminology needed to talk and act like a player Determine how to hire the people who will help you conduct M&A deals Discover tips on how to successfully negotiate transactions Mergers & Acquisitions For Dummies is a great choice for business owners and executives, students, service providers, and anyone interested in M&A transactions.

Get answers to your legal questions -- in plain English!

Find out how to protect your family, your money, your job, and your rights

If you're like most people, you probably don't know much about your legal rights and responsibilities -- until you run smack-dab into a messy legal problem. Now revised and updated, this friendly guide helps you get a handle on a wide range of everyday legal issues, decipher legal mumbo-jumbo -- and come out on top.

Discover how to: Protect your child support rights Arm yourself against identity theft Clean up your credit and improve your credit score Hire the right attorney for your needs Draw up wills and living wills

Planning how to pass your estate on doesn't have to mean complications, legal jargon and huge bills. "Wills, Probate and Inheritance Tax For Dummies, 2nd Edition" takes you through the process step-by-step and gives you all the information you need to ensure that your affairs are left in good order. It shows you how to plan and write your will, minimise the stress of probate, and ensure that your nearest and dearest are protected from a large inheritance tax bill.

Discover how to: Decide if a will is right for you Value your assets Leave your home through a will Appoint executors and trustees Choose beneficiaries Draw up a DIY will Work out how inheritance tax works and if you're liable to it Find out what can and can't be taxed

Your own in-house legal advisor at a fraction of the cost Written in plain-English for business people without any legal training, Law For Small Business For Dummies covers everything you need to be aware of regarding the law when you're starting and running your own business. Cutting through the jargon that can make even the pros scratch their heads, this book quickly gets you up-to-speed on the key areas of business law, including contracts, websites, intellectual property, data protection and partnership agreements. Plus, you'll find out how small business law applies to advertising and marketing, confidentiality agreements, the sale and supply of goods (including e-commerce), negligence and product liability. There were 526,000 new businesses registered in the UK in 2013 and, at some point, all of them will be faced with legal risks that could make the difference between success and failure. One claim could wipe out a fledgling business' profits, and hit even big businesses harder than they could ever imagine. If you're the owner of a new business and need to get a handle on the ins and outs of small business law and don't have the budget to employ an in-house legal advisor this trusted, approachable guide is your answer. * Covers the laws surrounding the most common risks small businesses face * Addresses how to deal with legal issues before a potentially costly dispute arises * Provides access to handy sample contract templates on Dummies.com * Serves as your own in-house legal advisor at a fraction of the cost If you're an existing business owner or an aspiring entrepreneur thinking about starting your own business, Law For Small Business For Dummies gives you answers to questions you didn't even know to ask!

Enjoy peace of mind knowing that your assets will pass to your family according to your wishes Regardless of your age or income, writing a legal will is one of the greatest gifts you can give your family. But where do you begin? Wills & Trusts Kit For Dummies walks you through the most important considerations to have in mind when you're deciding what will happen to your estate when you're gone. Writing a will or setting up a trust isn't as fun as binge watching the latest hot web series, but this book makes the task a little less daunting. Find out who needs a will or trust (spoiler alert: everyone!), when you should create one, and how to take the first steps. Handy online content includes practical worksheets, forms, and templates that simplify and explain the process of estate planning in language that doesn't require a legal education to understand. With the help of Wills & Trusts Kit For Dummies, you'll have a document that details your final wishes before you know it. Navigate probate, tax, and state laws that govern how property is passed to the next generation Avoid the most common estate planning pitfalls and mistakes Choose qualified professionals and specialists to help you make the best decisions for your family Designate a guardian for your children and plan for their financial needs You deserve to know that your loved ones will be properly taken care of when you're no longer with them. Wills &Trusts Kit For Dummies delivers straightforward guidance and peace of mind on a subject that, sooner or later, we all must face. *Please reference the Introduction to access a webpage where you will find a number of downloadable files and forms to create a will, living trust, living will, durable power of attorney, and healthcare proxy.*

Improve your score on the Analytical Reasoning portion of the LSAT

If you're like most test-takers, you find the infamous Analytical Reasoning or "Logic Games" section of the LSAT to be the most elusive and troublesome. Now there's help! "LSAT Logic Games For Dummies" takes the puzzlement out of the Analytical Reasoning section of the exam and shows you that it's not so problematic after all!"

"This easy-to-follow guide examines the types of logic puzzles presented on the LSAT and offers step-by-step instructions for how best to correctly identify and solve each problem within the allocated time. Coverage of all six question typesDetailed strategies for quickly and correctly recognizing and solving each question typeComplete with loads of practice problems"

"Whether you're preparing to take the LSAT for the first time or looking to improve a previous score, "LSAT Logic Games For Dummies" is the logical study companion for anyone looking to score high on the LSAT!

The easy way to make sense of property law

Understanding property law is vital for all aspiring lawyers and legal professionals, and property courses are foundational classes within all law schools. "Property Law For Dummies" tracks to a typical property law course and introduces you to property law and theory, exploring different types of property interests--particularly "real property."

In approachable For Dummies fashion, this book gives you a better understanding of the important property law concepts and aids in the reading and analysis of cases, statutes, and regulations.Tracks to a typical property law coursePlain-English explanations make it easier to grasp property law conceptsServes as excellent supplemental reading for anyone preparing for their state's Bar Exam

The information in "Property Law For Dummies" benefits students enrolled in a property law course as well as non-students, landlords, small business owners, and government officials, who want to know more about the ins and outs property law.

The straightforward guide to surviving and thriving in law school

Every year more than 40,000 students enter law school and at any given moment there are over 125,000 law school students in the United States. Law school’s highly pressurized, super-competitive atmosphere often leaves students stressed out and confused, especially in their first year. Balancing life and schoolwork, passing the bar, and landing a job are challenges that students often need help facing. In Law School For Dummies, former law school student Rebecca Fae Greene uses straight talk, sound advice, and gentle humor to help students sort through the swamp of coursework and focus on what’s important–all while maintaining a life. She also offers rare insight on the law school experience for women, minorities, non-traditional, and non-Ivy League students.

Everything you need to enter the exciting field of legal mediation

To be an effective mediator, it's essential to possess the ability to take control of animated situations, offer advice, and facilitate discussion--all the while remaining neutral without formulating biased judgment. "Success as a Mediator For Dummies" helps you acquire these attributes and much more.

Aspiring mediators will learn the importance of upholding an honorable reputation, the skills, personality traits, and characteristics of a good mediator, and how to effectively market a successful mediation career. Plus, you'll get practical advice about finding work in the field, realistic salary information, and tips on as tips on identifying whether you have the skills and tools to become a good mediator.The steps necessary to become a mediator (education, training, licensing, states-specific requirements, etc.)How your education and professional background can enhance your mediation workSample rules and standards of conductAll the steps necessary to build and market a successful private practice in mediation, or flourish as a mediator in a law firm, corporation, school, or non-profit organization

Whether you have a background in law or an interest in legal careers, "Success as a Mediator For Dummies" gives you everything you need to enter the exciting field of legal mediation.

As the number and size of nonprofit organizations continues to grow, NFPs are coming under ever-increasing government scrutiny. Soon Congress will require that nonprofits comply with rigorous accounting and governance standards very similar to those set forth for for-profits in the Sarbanes-Oxley Act.

If you work for a nonprofit and are concerned about meeting impending changes to tax and finance standards governing NFPs this book is for you. In simple, straight-forward language, this guide demystifies the often perplexing world of nonprofit governance in the age of Sarbanes-Oxley. Author, Jill Gilbert Welytok, an attorney who heads the Sarbanes-Oxley division of a major Midwest law firm, walks you step-by-step through the process of evaluating your governance structures. She arms you with tips and strategies for adopting uniform standards under current governance and tax laws, while preparing you for any upcoming changes. She shows you how to protect your tax status and reassure donors and volunteers while staying true to your organization's mission. And she fills you in on what you need to know to: Comply with state laws and regulationsGet and keep tax-exempt statusAvoid lawsuits and other legal landminesHandle the mediaAnticipate future trendsMake sense of the Sarbanes-Oxley act

Including sample nonprofit bylaws and a complete audit committee report, "Nonprofit Law & Governance for Dummies, Second Edition" is an indispensable survival tool for 21st century nonprofits.

Estate and Trust Administration For Dummies, 2nd Edition (9781119543879) was previously published as Estate and Trust Administration For Dummies, 2nd Edition (9781118412251). While this version features a new Dummies cover and design, the content is the same as the prior release and should not be considered a new or updated product. Your plain-English guide to administering an estate and/or trust As more and more of the population reach senior ages--including baby boomers, many of whom do not have wills--an increasing number of people are being thrust into the role of executor, administrator, personal representative of an estate, or trustee of a trust after the death of a loved one. This updated edition of Estate & Trust Administration For Dummies guides you through the confusing process of administering an estate and/or trust. Settling an estate and administering a trust can be complicated, messy, and time-consuming for individuals named as executor or trustee, most of whom have no previous experience with such matters. Estate & Trust Administration For Dummies shows you how to make sound decisions for your unique circumstances. Guides you through the confusing process of administering an estate and/or trust Provides expert advice on unfamiliar estate and trust tax law Gives you a practical checklist to follow for all of your estate and trust administration questions and concerns Whether you're looking for guidance on how to navigate the probate process and estate taxes, settle debts and bequests, fund a trust, comply with tax regulations, or anything in between, this hands-on, friendly guide takes away the mystery and provides detailed answers to all of your estate and trust administration questions.

Howdy, landlord! Get on the right side of the law with Dummies Landlord's Legal Kit For Dummies contains all the resources landlords need to unpack the legal side of renting properties. Inside you'll find worksheets, templates, and friendly explanations that will help you find success. Once you have your property and your tenants, you'll need to make sure you operate within your rights, complete all the necessary admin, and handle taxes in an accurate and timely way. This book can help you do just that, with the latest paperwork, helpful details and examples, and a breakdown of taxes and laws. Plus, you can go beyond the book by accessing online documents that take your learning to the next level. Understand all the latest housing laws that pertain to your specific rental situation Find drafts of all the legal forms you'll need as a landlord Access easy-to-use tax worksheets and clear descriptions of tax rules without legal jargon Recognize your rights as a landlord and understand your tenants' rights This is the perfect Dummies guide for both new and experienced landlords who need a hands-on legal reference for all the laws surrounding rent, rental properties, and tenants.

Useful tips and step-by-step guidance from filing to issue to license

Acquire and protect your share of this major business asset

Want to secure and exploit the intellectual property rights due you or your company? This easy-to-follow guide shows you how -- helping you to evaluate your idea's commercial potential, conduct patent and trademark searches, document the invention process, license your IP rights, and comply with international laws. Plus, you get detailed examples of each patent application type!

Discover how to: Avoid application blundersRegister trademarks and copyrightsMeet patent requirementsNavigate complex legal issuesProtect your rights abroad

The entire body of U.S. patent laws

Example office actions and amendments

Sample forms

Trademark registration certificates

Application worksheets

See the CD appendix for details and complete system requirements.

Note: CD-ROM/DVD and other supplementary materials are not included as part of eBook file.

Discover the ins and outs of Constitutional law

Are you a student looking for trusted, plain-English guidance on the ins and outs of Constitutional law? Look no further

"Constitutional Law For Dummies" provides a detailed study guide tracking to this commonly required law course. It breaks down complicated material and gives you a through outline of the parameters and applications of the U.S. Constitution in modern, easy-to-understand language. Critical information on the Constitution's foundations, powers, and limitationsA modern analysis of the Constitution's amendmentsDetailed information on the Supreme Court and federalism

Explaining outdated governmental jargon in current, up-to-date terms, "Constitutional Law For Dummies" is just what you need for quick learning and complete understanding. Students studying government will also find this to be a useful supplement to a variety of courses.

Windows may rule the world of popular computing on PCs around the globe, but DOS still has a place in the hearts and minds of computer users who vaguely remember what a C prompt looks like. Even if DOS (with all its arcane commands and its drab, boring look) isn't your idea of the best way to get things done on a PC, you'll find plenty of fast and friendly help on hand with the third edition of DOS For Dummies.

Here's a plain-speaking reference guide to all the command-line stuff and nonsense that makes DOS work, whether you're a native DOS user or are an occasional dabbler who needs the operating system to run all those cool games under Windows. DOS For Dummies, 3rd Edition, avoids all the technical jargon to cut to the heart of things with clear, easy-to-understand explanations and step-by-step help for managing files, running DOS inside Windows, and installing and running DOS-based software programs. All the basic DOS commands, from APPEND to XCOPY, are demystified to make life in DOS much more bearable. And the book has plenty of helpful tips and tricks for bending DOS to your will, without having to dedicate your life (and all your free time) to mastering this little corner of the PC.

With tips on understanding -- and surviving -- the new bankruptcy laws
If you're considering bankruptcy, you need straightforward answers and reliable advice. This handy guide covers it all -- so you can get your finances in line and your life back on track. This updated new edition covers everything you need to know about the new bankruptcy law and includes even better resources. Don't get desperate -- get out of debt instead!
Discover how to
* Weigh the consequences of bankruptcy
* Manage your spending
* Find professional help you can trust
* Decide on the right type of bankruptcy
* Pass the means test
* Keep more of your stuff

You may not believe that there's a fun and easy way to comply with Sarbanes -Oxley, but once you have "Sarbanes-Oxley For Dummies, Second Edition" in front of you, you're sure to change your mind. This friendly guide gets you quickly up to speed with the latest SOX legislation and shows you safe and effective ways to reduce compliance costs.

In plain English, this completely reliable handbook walks you through the new and revised SOX laws, introduces compliance strategies for changed and unchanged guidelines, and gives you an effective framework for implementation You'll find out how to create an efficient audit committee, purchase and use SOX software solutions, and make practical, cost-effective decisions in your initial compliance year and beyond. You'll also find proven strategies for staying public or going private and learn how to deal with all those SOX forms. Discover how to: Establish SOX standards for IT professionalsMinimize compliance costs in every area of your companySurvive a section 404 auditAvoid litigation under SOXAnticipate future rules and trendsCreate a post-SOX paper trailBolster your company's standing and reputationWork with SOX in a small businessMeet new SOX standardsBuild a board that can't be boughtComply with all SOX management mandates

Complete with invaluable tips on how to form an effective audit committee, "Sarbanes-Oxley For Dummies" is the resource you need to keep your SOX clean.

Create your own custom Visual Basic programs fast for Windows 95, Windows 98, and Windows NT with the power and friendly object-oriented interface of Microsoft's Visual Basic 6 with Visual Basic 6 For Dummies.

Here's a great resource to help you

• Understand the art of object-oriented programming in Visual Basic
• Build attractive user interfaces with buttons, boxes, and scroll bars
• Master menus and submenus -- plus expanding, pull-down, and pop-up menus -- quickly and easily
• Discover how to write subprograms that everyone can share
• Save and retrieve information in databases like Microsoft Access
• Integrate your own special ActiveX controls into applications

Visual Basic.NET For Dummies offers a fun and creative environment for developing programs with Visual Basic.NET. From the fundamentals of writing code to the excitement of building next-generation applications for Microsoft's new .NET Platform, Visual Basic.NET For Dummies explains this popular language in terms that non-programmers and first-time Visual Basic programmers can understand.

Experienced Visual Basic programmers will benefit from this book as it highlights the features and functions of this new and much-changed version of Visual Basic.

All readers will delight in expert For Dummies author Wallace Wang's coverage of topics that include: Variables, constants, loops and other programming fundamentals, Visual Basic.NET syntax, Working with the new Visual Basic.NET IDE, Forms and controls, and Understanding Objects.

Full coverage of the ins and outs of inventing for profit
Protect your idea, develop a product - and start your business!
Did you have a great idea? Did you do anything about it? Did someone else? Inventing For Dummies is the smart and easy way to turn your big idea into big money. This non-intimidating guide covers every aspect of the invention process - from developing your idea, to patenting it, to building a prototype, to starting your own business.
The Dummies Way
* Explanations in plain English
* "Get in, get out" information
* Icons and other navigational aids
* Tear-out cheat sheet
* Top ten lists
* A dash of humor and fun

Discover how to:
* Conduct a patent search
* Maintain your intellectual property rights
* Build a prototype product
* Determine production costs
* Develop a unique brand
* License your product to another company

Gives you the scoop on how the Court reaches its decisions

Get involved and track a case through the system

This fun and easy guide demystifies the federal court system by describing what kinds of cases the justices hear, outlining how cases reach the Supreme Court, clarifying legal terms, and explaining how the Court arrives at its decisions. You’ll discover how to get inside the Court yourself and investigate both the key issues and the players involved.

The Dummies Way

• Explanations in plain English
• "Get in, get out" information
• Icons and other navigational aids
• Tear-out cheat sheet
• Top ten lists
• A dash of humor and fun