This guide covers a small business from formation through sale or dissolution. Part 1 compares the entity forms and separates entity choice from tax classification. Part 2 covers the operating agreement and the disputes it prevents. Part 3 covers the practices that maintain the liability shield and the facts that defeat it. Part 4 covers registrations and licensing. Part 5 covers worker classification and the personal exposure it creates. Part 6 covers wage and hour and the obligations that attach at each headcount. Parts 7 and 8 cover contracts, arbitration, and getting paid. Parts 9 through 12 cover insurance, intellectual property, the annual compliance rhythm, and exit planning.