BA 226Z Introduction to Business Law

Lecture Hours: 4
Credits: 4

Provides a comprehensive overview of U.S. business law, including the legal system, contracts, torts, intellectual property, agency, employment, and business organization forms. Emphasizes practical legal knowledge and explores how laws impact business operations, with a focus on risk management, contract disputes, business formation, and compliance with government regulation. Introduces legal challenges in business through real cases and legal terminology.

Recommended: Placement into WR 121Z and BA 101Z with a grade of C or better.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Describe the U.S. legal system as applied to business including sources of law, the judicial system, and alternative forms of dispute resolution.
Explain the applicability of tort, criminal, and intellectual property law to business.
Identify business organization forms and the responsibilities and liabilities of principals and agents.
Describe the legal requirements for contract formation, enforcement, and defenses, as well as application of the Uniform Commercial Code.
Explain the basic tenets of employment, labor and wage laws related to business.

Content Outline

The Legal Environment of Business
- The legal environment
- Constitutional law
- Courts and alternative dispute resolution
- Torts and cyber torts
- Intellectual property
- Criminal law cyber crimes
Contracts
- Nature and classification
- Agreement and consideration
- Capacity and legality
- Defense to contract enforceability
- Third party rights and discharge
- Breach and remedies
- E-contracts
- Labor and employment law
- Employment discrimination