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Purpose of Corporate Bylaws

A corporation is a type of legal business entity created under state law. It offers certain liability protection to its owners. For example, if a creditor sues a corporation, the owners are not personally liable for the debt. Every corporation should have corporate bylaws drafted by its board of directors. Bylaws are one of the most important legal documents a corporation can possess. Corporate bylaws provide the framework of a corporation by outlining its rules, guidelines, and procedures. Corporate bylaws also outline the authority given to the corporation's directors and shareholders. Some individuals confuse bylaws with the articles of incorporation, which is the form used to establish a corporation within a certain state.

Components of Corporate Bylaws

State law does not require a company follow a specific outline when creating corporate bylaws. A corporation should create bylaws crafted to the particular needs of its business. Depending on the nature of the business, bylaws can range from just a few pages to very lengthy. Common components in corporate bylaws include voting procedures, meeting times and dates, the role and salary of the corporation's officers, the length of term for directors, and the fiscal year of the corporation.

Amending Corporate Bylaws

Most directors outline in the bylaws the requirements needed to amend the bylaws. Specific details should be included concerning who has the power to recommend amendments and the voting rules required to make changes. Corporate directors should keep bylaws current and make necessary amendments to reflect changes in the corporation. Keeping corporate bylaws current can help a corporation protect itself against legal liability.

Understanding Corporate Bylaws

Once corporate bylaws are drafted, every director, member and officer within the corporation should receive a coy of the bylaws to read. It is imperative that everyone understands the components of the bylaws. An attorney specializing in corporate law can help a corporation structure its bylaws in a way that best protects the business. Business owners who cannot afford legal counsel can find sample bylaws online that provide a basic outline of what to include and what not to include in the bylaws.

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