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Lecture 3 of 5: Agency, Partnership and Business Associations: Corporation Formation and Governance
Description
Corporation Formation and Governance
This document summarizes key points on corporation formation and governance.
I. Corporation Formation
Incorporation Process:
File Articles of Incorporation with the state.
Adopt Bylaws (internal rules).
Hold Organizational Meeting to formalize operations.
Corporate Formalities:
Maintain formalities (meetings, records, etc.) to preserve limited liability.
II. Piercing the Corporate Veil
Courts can hold shareholders personally liable for corporate debts in cases of abuse or misconduct (ignoring formalities, undercapitalization, fraud).
III. Shareholder Rights
Shareholders have rights like voting, inspecting records, and filing derivative suits.
Minority shareholders have protections against oppressive actions.
IV. Director and Officer Duties
Directors and officers owe duties of care and loyalty to the corporation.
Business Judgment Rule protects them from liability for honest mistakes.
Exculpation and indemnification provisions may limit their liability.
V. Conclusion
Understanding these principles is crucial for legal compliance and protecting stakeholder interests.