mee_subjects_myube_copy_20190709102254 Flashcards

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1
Q

What type of business entity is an association entered into for profit, contemplating a single transaction or related series of transactions?e.g. A & E Partners, an association formed to create a building, with the association to dissolve upon the completion of the project.

A

A joint venture. A partnership (general or limited) would require the contemplation (intent) of carrying on an ongoing business relationship.

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2
Q

A general partnership may convert to a registered limited liability partnership by…

A

a vote of the partners with a majority share of the interests in the current profits of the general partnership.Note: a limited partnership (LP) CANNOT become an LLP

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3
Q

Under RUPA, the result of a partner’s bankruptcy, or other financial insolvency in a partnership at will is…

A

…dissociation of the partner from the partnership.In a partnership at will, dissociation of a bankrupt partner does not require dissolution of the partnership. The partners may elect to continue the partnership, but they must buy out the dissociated partner’s interest in the partnership at a price equal to or greater than the liquidation value of the partnership’s assets or the value of the partnership’s assets based on a sale of the entire business as a going concern.

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4
Q

Under RUPA, the result of a partner’s bankruptcy, or other financial insolvency in a partnership for a definite term or particular undertaking is…

A

…dissociation of the partner from the partnership/firm, and the partnership must be dissolved within 90 days of the dissociation.

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5
Q

de jure vs de facto corporations

A

A de jure corporation is one which has been organized in compliance with the mandatory statutory requirements of the state of incorporation.When a corporation does not meet the requirements of a de jure corporation, it may be considered a de facto corporation if the incorporators made a good-faith, colorable attempt to comply with the incorporation statute and the corporate principals acted in good faith as if they were a corporation.

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6
Q

Liability of a promoter for contracts from before a corporation exists

A

As a general rule, a promoter is personally liable for any contract he entered into on behalf of the corporation that is not yet in existence, whether the contract is made in his name or in the corporation’s name, unless the promoter specifically disclaimed personal responsibility in the contract, or the promoter is released from liability after the corporation is formed. The later occurs if, after incorporation, the corporation accepts such a contract either expressly (by a resolution of the board of directors) or impliedly (by, for example, accepting the benefits of the contract).

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7
Q

factors considered when determining whether an opportunity is, in fact, a business opportunity (for the purpose of breach of fiduciary duty)

A

Such factors are: whether the business constituting the opportunity is closely related to that of the corporation, whether the board had expressed an interest in acquiring that type of business, whether the director or officer became aware of the opportunity while acting in her capacity as a director or officer, and whether she used any corporate funds or facilities in discovering or developing the opportunity.

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8
Q

Describe the duty to refrain from taking business opportunities from the corporation

A

Part of the duty of loyalty, specifically, one may not take a business opportunity from the corporation for one’s own benefit unless the corporation is first given the chance to pursue the opportunity. However, if the corporation is given the opportunity and declines to do so, one is free to pursue the opportunity for her own personal benefit.

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9
Q

Fiduciary duties to corporations/LLCs (2)

A

both the duty of care and the duty of loyalty

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10
Q

short-form merger

A

a parent company owning at least 90 percent of the outstanding shares of each class of its subsidiary may merge the subsidiary into itself. This, unlike most mergers, does not require the approval of shareholders of either the parent or subsidiary. Only the board of directors of the parent company needs to approve the merger.

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11
Q

What counts as Fundamental changes, requiring SH approval?

A

mergers, consolidations, dissolutions, sale of all assets, and amendment of the articles.While the board of directors cannot decide on a fundamental change without the shareholders, it can pass a resolution depending that shareholders act in a particular way.

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12
Q

Determining whether to bring derivative or direct suit

A

Look at whether the suit is on behalf of the corporation or if it involves the individual shareholder’s rights against the corporation (also look whether harm was to SHs or to the corp).The derivative suit (an equitable action) does not have to be brought by all shareholders collectively; rather, it may be commenced by one individual shareholder on behalf of the corporation

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13
Q

If stock is held jointly by more than one person, a proxy executed by any one of them…

A

…is valid unless one of the other co-owners provides timely written notice to the corporation that the proxy is invalid.

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14
Q

to make a valid codicil it must

A

A valid codicil must meet all of the requirements/formalities for a valid will.It can be attested (signed by two witnesses) or holographic (with material sections in testator’s own handwriting)

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15
Q

A presumption of undue influence may arise…

A

in situations where there is a fiduciary relationship between the beneficiary and the testator; the testator is dependent on the beneficiary who is playing the dominant role; the testator reposed trust in the beneficiary; and the beneficiary was instrumental in preparing the will.

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16
Q

can a will be attested by an interested witness?

A

yes, under the UPC

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17
Q

what is a self- proving will?

A

Under the Uniform Probate Code a self- proving will is one that is signed and witnessed, or subsequently acknowledged, before an officer authorized to administer oaths.

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18
Q

To have a valid contract to make a will that is extrinsic to the will itself, the testator must…

A

…have signed a writing establishing the existence and essential terms of the contract.

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19
Q

Causes of action for direct suits:

A

i) compel payment of dividendsii) enforce right to inspect recordsiii) protect preemptive rightsiv) enforce right to votev) recover for breach of shareholders’ agreement, preincorporation agreement, or a contract w/a shareholder

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20
Q

Three meanings of proxy

A

1) Grant of authority by a shareholder to another person to vote their stock2) the instrument granting that authority3) the agent to whom that authority is granted (also called the proxy holder)

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21
Q

Requirements for a proxy

A

Must be in writing, executed by the shareholder, and typically valid for 11 months. It is typically revocable unless coupled with an interest, if it states otherwise, or if the SH takes actions indicating revocation (i.e. writing delivered to corp, showing up to SH meeting)

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22
Q

3 rights shareholders typically have

A

1) Dividend rights (at board’s discretion)2) Liquidation rights3) Voting rights

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23
Q

white knight

A

a more acceptable bidder which a corporation finds in the case of a tender offer or hostile takeover by a less acceptable bidder

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24
Q

poison pill

A

creating classes of stock that increase in rights if someone acquires more than a specified percentage of shares, making acquisition more expensive to the bidder

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25
Q

Are shares of stock a general or specific bequest?

A

Could be either. A possessive pronoun generally indicated specific (“my fifty shares of stock X”), whereas otherwise if could be general (“fifty shares of stock X”).Turns on intent, but this is a way to determine. Implications for ademption.

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26
Q

HYPO: Tara leaves “my car to my niece Sarah.” When Tara wrote her will, she owned a 1967 Firebird. Tara subsequently gave the Firebird to Sarah and purchased a 1998 Honda minivan, which she still owned at the time of her death. What result?

A

Sarah would get both cars. There would be no ademption by satisfaction b/c that only applies to general bequests and this is specific; and there would be no ademption by satisfaction because there is no contemporaneous writing by T stating so.

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27
Q

pretermitted child

A

a child born to a testator after the testator executed a will. If a testator’s after-born child is not provided for in the testator’s will, and the testator provided for one or more of his then-living children, the pretermitted child may claim a share of the estate unless it appears from the will that the omission was intentional. The other children’s shares will abate ratably to accommodate the afterborn child’s share.

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28
Q

Under the UPC, when an intestate decedent is not survived by a spouse, the descendants take/divide the entire estate…

A

…per capita by generation.

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29
Q

Under the UPC’s provisions on intestate succession, when the decedent is survived by both a spouse and one or more descendants who are not also the descendants of the surviving spouse…

A

…the surviving spouse’s share is the first $150,000.00 plus one-half of the intestate estate. The remainder is distributed equally among the descendants.

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30
Q

requirements for the creation of a valid trust (6)

A

(1) settlor w/requisite capacity, expresses a present intent to create a trust;(2) delivery of specific trust property;(3) an ascertainable beneficiary;(4) active duties imposed on the trustee;(5) a proper trust purpose; and(6) a trustee.

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31
Q

Totten trust

A

Also known as a “payable on death account,” a Totten trust is a form of trust created where one party (the settlor or depositor) places money in a bank account or security with instructions that upon the settlor’s death, the funds in the account will pass to a named beneficiary. Typically, it’s an account in the name of the depositor, “in trust for” the beneficiary. Prior to the depositor’s death, the trust account is completely revocable and the depositor has no fiduciary duty to the beneficiary.

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32
Q

spendthrift trust

A

A spendthrift trust is one that prevents the beneficiary from voluntarily transferring her interest in the trust and creditors from reaching that interest.

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33
Q

Merger (trusts)

A

Merger occurs when the sole trustee becomes the sole beneficiary. Thus, in order for a trust to be terminated due to merger, there must be only one beneficiary and one trustee, and they must be the same person.

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34
Q

Typical situations in which resulting trusts occur are where… (5)

A

(1) the trust has no beneficiaries (e.g., none were ever named, they have died, they cannot be located or identified, or they disclaim their trust interests); (2) no provision has been made for a portion of the trust property; (3) a trust designated for a specific purpose is invalid, insufficient, or excessive; (4) the trust purpose was never described or is unclear; or (5) carrying out the material purposes of the trust has become impractical or illegal.

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35
Q

constructive trust

A

A constructive trust is an equitable device employed by courts, despite the absence of any intention of the parties to create a trust, whereby a trust is erected in favor of one person to redress wrongdoing or prevent the unjust enrichment on another. The purpose of a constructive trust is to require the holder of property to divest himself of it and transfer it to the person entitled to that asset.

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36
Q

“gift over” provision

A

A “gift over” provision provides that in the event that the settlor’s stated charitable purpose cannot be accomplished, the trust will terminate or revert as provided. In contrast, the cy pres doctrine applies in cases where it becomes impossible or illegal to carry out the settlor’s specific charitable purpose, such as where a designated charitable beneficiary is no longer in existence. The cy pres doctrine applies only when there is no “gift over” provision and no substitute charity named

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37
Q

Elements required to create a valid charitable trust: (4)

A

(1) it has a charitable purpose,(2) the beneficiaries are indefinite,(3) there is perpetual existence, and(4) the cy pres doctrine can be applied as needed (when there is a general charitable intent)

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38
Q

choice of law for movable property

A

traditionally the situs at the time of transaction, but security interests in movable etc governed by UCC default rule is that of a state bearing an “appropriate relation” to the transaction.

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39
Q

choice of law for intangibles

A

law of situs where the instrument representing it, or otherwise the place of transfer, or contracts choice of law.

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40
Q

choice of law for real property

A

also for liens and mortgages (but not the note), governed by law of the situs

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41
Q

choice of law substance/procedure

A

Procedure is governed by the law of the forum, whereas substance is governed by the forum’s choice of law rules. Whether something is substantive/procedural is determined according to the forum’s law.

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42
Q

renvoi

A

idea that all the law of the state whose law applies should be applied, including choice of law. The 2nd Rest and most states of rejected this b/c of its potential circularity.

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43
Q

most important considerations for forum non conveniens (2)

A

1) P’s choice of forum should not be disturbed except for weighty reasons;2) the action should not be dismissed unless a suitable alternative forum is available to P.Other considerations: access to evidence, premiuses, witnesses, enforceability of judgement, administrative issues, etc

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44
Q

basic requirements for a security agreement (4)

A

The security agreement must be:(1) in writing;(2) contain a “granting” clause (stating it is creating a security interest);(3) contain a description that “reasonably described” the collateral (not supergeneric); and(4) be authenticated by the debtor.

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45
Q

requirements in order for a security interest to attach (3)

A

(1) properly created/authenticated security agreement(2) secured party must give value, and(3) debtor must have rights to the collateralThese can occur in any order, and attachment happens once all 3 have taken place.

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46
Q

Can security agreements validly cover after-acquired consumer goods?

A

yes, but the security agreement can only attach if the debtor acquires rights in the goods within 10 days of the secured party giving value.

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47
Q

Under UCC Article 9, which law governs perfection and the effect of perfection?

A

The law of the jurisdiction where the debtor is located.The law of the jurisdiction where the collateral is located governs only when the dispute involves a possessory security interest (in real property, or an interest in fixtures/timber).

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48
Q

Perfection of an interest, 4 ways

A

(1) filing,(2) taking possession of the collateral,(3) taking control of the collateral (i.e. bank account), or(4) automatically (i.e. PMSI in consumer goods, identifiable cash proceeds)

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49
Q

how long does perfection last for?

A

perfection is automatic as soon as the security interest attaches, and remains effective permanently.

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50
Q

timeline for automatic perfection

A

Most of the time, when perfection is automatic and temporary, is lasts for a period of 20 days after attachment. However, when a PMSI is involved and the collateral is consumer goods, perfection is automatic and permanent as soon as the security interest attaches

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51
Q

PMSI grace period

A

Where a financing statement is filed within 20 days after the debtor receives delivery of the collateral, perfection “relates back” to the date the security interest attached upon the debtor’s receipt of the collateral, which is good against claims arising in the meantime from (only) intervening buyers, lessees, or lien creditors.Fixtures: super priority if perfected before or within 20 days of when it became a fixture.Exception: no grace period for PMSI in inventory (must perfect upon receipt), plus must inform debtor of PMSI.

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52
Q

“first in time, first in right.”

A

The most basic rule of priorities.Assuming parties are on equal footing (i.e., both hold the same type of interest in the property) and both have perfected security interests, the first to perfect takes priority.

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53
Q

“second in time, first in right” priority

A

A perfected PMSI will prevail over a conflicting security interest, if the PMSI is perfected when the debtor receives possession of the collateral or within 20 days thereafter. (Note, extra steps are required where the collateral is inventory)

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54
Q

PMSI priority rule for inventory

A

When collatera is inventory, the PMSI holder can perfect his interest and prevail over the non-PMSI holder (even one who has perfected his interest) if the PMSI holder perfects his interest before the debtor receives possession of the collateral, and sends an authenticated notification to the other creditor stating that he expects to take a PMSI in the debtor’s collateral.

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55
Q

cash proceeds of the collection or distribution of the collateral are to be distributed in the following order: (4)

A

1) reasonable expenses/fees of collection and enforcement;2) satisfaction of indebtedness to secured party;3) satisfaction of obligations secured by any subordinate security interestd or other subordinate lien on the collateral, IF they sent the secured party an authenticated demand before disposal;4) and the remainder to the debtor.5) If debts are not covered, secured parties can obtain a deficiency judgment

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56
Q

Perfection of security interest in a deposit account

A

deposit accounts may only be perfected by control. A secured party has control of a deposit account if the secured party is the bank with which the deposit account is maintained (can be like automatic perfection)

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57
Q

between perfected interests, which prevails?

A

Frist to file OR perfect.The security with the earliest time of filing or perfection, which has continued without interruption, will prevail

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58
Q

among unperfected interests, which prevails?

A

the first to attach

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59
Q

perfecting a security interest in money as collateral requires

A

possession (perfection by filing does not work)

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60
Q

perfection by possession only applies to:

A

i) negotiable documentsii) goodsiii) instrumentsiv) moneyv) tangible chattel paper

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61
Q

a filed financing statement is effective for:

A

five years from date of filing.A continuation statement must be filed within six months before the five-year period expires, extends the original FS for another five-year term from prior date of expiration.FS will lapse if it expires without a continuation statement being filed, and SI becomes unperfected.

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62
Q

when is a secured party not entitled to deficiency payment

A

when they underlying transaction is:1) a sale of accounts,2) chattel paper, 3) payment intangibles, or4) promissory note

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63
Q

What is Attachment?

A

Attachment is the process by which the security interest is created. A security interest is created by a contract between the debtor and the secured party

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64
Q

what is Perfection?

A

Perfection establishes a secured party’s rights in the collateral against third parties.In order for a security interest to be perfected, requires: attachment + perfection.

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65
Q

is marital fault/misconduct considered in alimony awards?

A

It may be in some jurisdictions, but the UMDA requires that alimony be determined “without regard to marital misconduct,” and awarded only where a party actually needs it.

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66
Q

Jurisdiction under UCCJEA

A

According to the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act, a state may take jurisdiction of a child welfare case if the child’s home state declines jurisdiction or there is no “home state.” The child and at least one parent must also have a significant connection to the state, and there must be significant evidence in the state.

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67
Q

formation of an LP or LLP

A

Both must comply w/statutory requirementLP:1) certificate of LP signed by all named general partners, filed w/secretary of state’s office2) name of the LP must say “limited partnership” or an abbreviation (L.P. or LP)LLP1) Formed by filing w/secretary of state’s office certificate of registration signed by at least one person (usually must pay a filing fee)2) name of the LLP must say “limited liability partnership” or an abbreviation (R.L.L.P., L.L.P., LP, etc.)

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68
Q

An act of a partner that is not apparently for carrying on in the ordinary course of business of the partnership…

A

… does not bind the partnership unless authorized by theother partners.

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69
Q

Resolving disputes between General Partners:

A

Acts within ordinary course of business: majority voteActs outside ordinary course of business: unanimous consent

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70
Q

Duties of Limited Partners

A

Duties of good faith and fair dealing (less demanding than duties of care and loyalty)

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71
Q

Liability of limited partners in an LP

A

Not personally liable (except the partner’s capital contribution) for debts of the LP, even if the limited partner participated in the management

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72
Q

Dissociation of a partner

A

1) wrongfully dissociates of a partner from a definite term p’ship: automatic dissolution in 90 days unlessmajority of partners vote to continue2) sole general partner in an LP dissociates: automatic dissolution in 90 days unless majority of limited partners vote to continue, and appoint a general partner3) one of multiple general partners dissociates from an LP: no automatic dissolution unless majority of all partners (general and limited) vote to dissolve4) sole limited partner dissociates: automatic dissolution unless a limited partner is admitted within 90 days

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73
Q

Partnership’s liability on post-dissolution contracts:

A

liable if the transaction would have bound the partnership before dissolution and the other party did not have notice of the dissolution

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74
Q

Partnership’s assets are distributed in this order:

A

First: pay creditors (including partners who are creditors); partners are jointly and severally liable forany outstanding debt (may seek contribution fromother partners)Second: reimburse partners for their capital contributionsThird: pay the balance to partners in accordance with their share of profits

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75
Q

Requires capacity for principal and agent

A

Principal: Contractual capacity (capacity to entertransactions, control one’s business affairs)Agent: Minimum mental capacity (gets contractual capacity from principal)

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76
Q

agent’s liability on a contracted entered into for principal

A

Fully Disclosed Principals: agent is not liable on contractPartially Disclosed (or Undisclosed) Principal: agent is liable on contract

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77
Q

Apparent authority

A

Apparent authority arises from the principal’s representations to a third party, where theprincipal’s behavior leads the third party to believe that the agent is acting with the principal’s authority. Thus, even if a partner lacks actual authority, a limited liabilitypartnership can be bound by the acts of a partner if the partner was apparently carrying on in the ordinary course the partnership business or business of the kind carried on by the partnership. Apparent authority does not exist if the third party had actual knowledge that the agent lacked authority.

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78
Q

Duties to partnerships

A

Duty of care, Duty of loyalty.These are owed both to the partnership and to the partners.

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79
Q

remedies for breach of fiduciary duties to a partnership

A

Can sue for harm to the partnership (by majority vote of partners), or can sue in a direct action, an accounting action (suit in equity), which determines result by each partner’s investment, the partnership’s profits or losses, and share of profits to which each partner is entitled.

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80
Q

Directors and Officers

A

Directors: sit on the board of directors (Board) and are responsible for governing the corp.Officers: serve as agents of the corp. and are responsible for managing the day-to-day matters of the corp

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81
Q

Formation of a corp

A

=IncorporationOccurs upon execution and filing of the articles of incorporation (Articles), requires the incorporator(s) prepare and sign the Articles and include:§ name and address of each incorporator;§ address of initial registered office and name of initial registered agent;§ number of shares authorized to issue; and§ name of the corp.Proper filing requires an incorporator to file the Articles at the secretary of state’s office and pay the filing fee

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82
Q

Date of incorporation

A

the date of filing unless the Articles delay the date ofeffectiveness (up to 90 days from date of filing)

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83
Q

Corporation by estoppel

A

In a contract dispute between a third party and an unformed corp. believed to be properly formed, a court may:• estop the third party from alleging defective incorporation if that would unjustly expose the corp.’s principals to liability• estop the corp. from arguing it isn’t liable due to defective incorporation if it would unjustly deprive the third party of reliefCan’t use this doctrine as a defense to a tort claim

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84
Q

default rules for quorum and voting

A

• A majority of directors constitutes a quorum (unless otherwise provided in Articles or bylaws)• Board action occurs upon the affirmative vote of a majority of the directors present at the meetingThe Board can act without calling a meeting if every director gives signed, written consent (unless otherwise provided in Articles or bylaws)Shareholder meetings: quorum is majority of shares entitled to vote

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85
Q

default rules for notice for board meetings

A

Regular meetings: No notice neededSpecial meetings: at least two days’ notice of the date, time, and place of the special meeting, but need not give notice of purpose of meeting except for meetingsat which the removal of a director is to be considered

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86
Q

Duty of care (corps)

A

Directors and officers must act:§ in good faith;§ with the care an ordinary prudent person would exercise in similar circumstances; and§ in a manner reasonably believed to be in the best interest of the corp.Standard of review: BJR

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87
Q

BJR

A

Business Judgment Rule: Rebuttable presumption that directors and officers acted:o on an informed basis;o in good faith; ando honest belief that decision was in corp’s best interest

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88
Q

Notice of shareholder meetings

A

Written notice of each annual and special meetings required to be given at some point between 10 and 60 days before the meeting.Must give notice of purpose for meetings to: amend articles (must include copy of amendment), merger/dissolution (include notice of plan)

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89
Q

Shareholders vote on (3)

A

1) elect and remove directors (with or without cause)2) amend the bylaws, and3) approve fundamental changes

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90
Q

Info rights of SHs

A

Unqualified right: to examine the Articles, bylaws, minutes of SH meetings, and a list of SHs of recordQualified right: to inspect (and make copies of) accounting books and the records and minutes of director meetings (requires a good-faith demand made for a proper purpose and with specificity of that purpose and the items sought for inspection)

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91
Q

Appraisal rights

A

If a fundamental change was approved by SHs, dissenting SHs (who voted against the action) have right to sell their shares for the fair market value.Merger: this right can be exercised by any SH of a corp. that is a party of the merger (except not SHs of a subsidiary corp. in a short form merger)Share exchange: this right can be exercised only by SHs who own shares of the class/series that are to be acquired or exchanged

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92
Q

To compel payment of dividends, a SH must prove…

A

…the Director’s refusal amounted to fraud, bad faith, or an abuse of discretion.Factors to determine bad faith:• Intense hostility by controlling SHs against minority SHs• Excluding minority SHs from employment by the corp.• High salaries, bonuses, or corporate loans made to the controlling officers• If majority SHs may be subject to high personal-income taxes if substantial dividends are paid• Whether the controlling directors desire to buy the minority stock interests for as little as possible

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93
Q

Before bringing a derivative suit, SHs must…

A

make a written demand of the directors to enforce the rights of a corp. unless demand would be futile

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94
Q

Piercing the Corporate Veil

A

SHs are not personally liable for debts of the corp, but this is the exception.Factors:o Corp. is undercapitalizedo Corporate formalities have not been followedo Commingling of corporate and personal fundso Corp. is an alter ego of its SHs

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95
Q

amending bylaws

A

Generally shareholders and Board of directors may amend a corporation’s bylaws by vote, unless shareholders (in amending, repealing, or adopting a bylaw) expressly provide that board may not amend, repeal, or reinstate that bylaw.Bylaws may include any provisions for regulation and management of corporation that are not inconsistent with law or articles of incorporation

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96
Q

Testamentary Intent, overcome by (3)

A

=At the time of execution, Testator intends that this particular document be his will.Overcome by:1) Undue Influence2) Fraud: in execution (invalid) or inducement (toss part)3) Mistake: in execution

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97
Q

Undue Influence, for testamentary intent, presumption

A

Challenger must prove the wrongdoer exerted such influence over Testator that:1) Overcame Testator’s free will, and2) Caused Testator to make a transfer he wouldn’t have otherwise madePresumption of undue influence if:1) wrongdoer was in a confidential relationship with Testator (i.e. nurse), and2) suspicious circumstances surrounding thepreparation/execution of the will

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98
Q

Testamentary Capacity

A

Testator must be (1) at least 18 years old and (2) of sound mind when the will is executed.Sound mind = ability to understand the nature of: his property, his disposition, and name and relationship to the people involved

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99
Q

Elements of a valid will (3)

A

1) Testamentary intent2) Testamentary capcity3) Statutory formalities followed (depends on type of will)

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100
Q

Types of wills (5)

A

(1) attested will: writing, signed by T’s, witnessed (signed in front of notary or by two witnesses who saw him sign)(2) holographic will: UPC requires material parts in T’s handwriting, signed by T(3) contract to make a will: valid under UPC, est by provision in will or express reference to K, signed by D(4) joint/mutual will: 1 doc signed by both, revokable by either party in UPC (many states let either revoke)(5) a codicil to a will: adds/modifies existing will, need same formalities as attested will, republishes the will to take of codicil’s execution

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101
Q

Methods of revoking a will

A

1) Physical act: destroying any part2) Executing a subsequent will: express or implied revocation3) Divorce: presumption that provisions in favor of the ex-spouse don’t survive the divorce

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102
Q

reviving a will

A

A revoked will can be revived if it’s restated, re executed, or republished, or there is other clear evidence of intent to revive.Republication = resign the original will and have two witnesses attest the willA codicil made to a revoked will revives the revoked will as of the date of the codicil

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103
Q

Grounds for contesting an executed will (5)

A

o Lack of Testamentary Capacityo Undue Influenceo Mistakeo Fraudo Ambiguity

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104
Q

In Terrorem (No-Contest) Clause

A

Attempts to disqualify anyone contesting the will from taking under itMost courts won’t apply this to disqualify a beneficiary if the challenge was based on reasonable cause

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105
Q

Personal Property List

A

Under the UPC, Testator can write a list disposing of personal property (not $) if the writing describes the beneficiaries and property with reasonable certaintyo The writing disposes of the property even if not properly attestedo The writing can be created after the will is executed

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106
Q

Spouse’s Elective Share

A

A surviving spouse can decline to take under the will or pursuant to the intestacy statute, and instead to take an elective-share.Election must be made within the later of: 9 months after Decedent’s death, or 6 months after the probate of Decedent’s will.Amount: up to 50% (depending on the length of the marriage) of the augmented estate

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107
Q

Simultaneous Death (wills)

A

A person who cannot be established by clear and convincing evidence to have survived the decedent by 120 hours is deemed to have predeceased the decedent.• each is deemed to have failed to survive the other• Also applies to intestate succession

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108
Q

Disclaimer of Property Interests (wills)

A

A beneficiary may refuse to take a devise by filing a disclaimer that:• Is in writing and signed by the disclaiming party,• Declares the disclaimer,• Describes the interest or power being disclaimed, and• Is delivered or filedDisclaimer relates back to date of Decedent’s death.The disclaiming party is treated as having predeceased Decedent.

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109
Q

Demonstrative Bequest/Devise

A

= A bequest of a certain sum to be paid out of a particular fund. If the fund is not in existence at Testator’s death or if there are insufficient funds,the beneficiary is entitled to payment out of the general estate

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110
Q

A gift testator gave in his lifetime to a person is treated as a satisfaction of a devise only if:

A

1) The will provides for deduction of the gift,2) Testator declared in a contemporaneous writing that the gift is in satisfaction of the devise or that its value is to be deducted from the value of the devise, or3) beneficiary acknowledged in writing that the gift is in satisfaction of the devise or that its value is to be deducted from the value of the devise

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111
Q

Abatement: if the assets of Testator’s estate are insufficient to satisfy all the bequests or devises, the beneficiaries’ shares will abate (i.e., be reduced) in the following order:

A

• Property that would pass via intestacy• Residuary bequests• General bequests• Demonstrative bequests• Specific bequests (distributed first)

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112
Q

Anti-Lapse Statute

A

All states, provides that a devise is saved from lapsing (into residue) as a result of a predeceased benefiary if:1) predeceasing beneficiary was closely related to Testator (typically a blood descendant), AND2) predeceasing beneficiary was survived by descendants who also survived Testator, THEN:3) Those descendants will take by anti-lapse unless the will clearly expresses a contrary intent

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113
Q

Intestacy w/ a surviving spouse (ss)1) Surviving descendants are the children of both SS and Decedent (i.e., no stepchildren)2) No surviving descendants but Decedent’s parents survive3) Surviving descendants of Decedent and also surviving step-children of Decedent:4) Surviving descendants of Decedent who are the step-children of SS

A

1) SS takes entire intestate estate2) SS takes first $300,000 plus three-quarters of intestate estate3) SS takes first $225,000 plus half of the intestate estate. Remainder split equally by Decedent’s descendants.4) SS takes first $150,000 plus half of intestate estate

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114
Q

UPC approach, if there is no SS or the SS is not entitled to a share in the estate, the descendants take by:

A

Per capita by representation at each generation(not per stirpes)

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115
Q

Types of trusts (4)

A

Express: (1) Private, (2) CharitableImplied:(3) Constructive: imposed to deprive wrongdoer fromretaining improperly obtained property(4) Resulting: imposed irrespective of wrongdoing when circumstances require it (settlor holds equitable interest)

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116
Q

Trust

A

split title between equitable (beneficary) and legal (trustee) holders

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117
Q

If a sole trustee of a trust becomes its sole beneficiary…

A

…interests merge and trust collapses

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118
Q

Requirements for a Valid Trust (6)

A

1) Settlor with requisite capacity who expresses a present intent to create a trust,2) Delivery of specific trust property (can’t be mere expectation or unearned profits, some certainty)3) At least one ascertainable beneficiary (some obj standard/reasonable basis to identify beneficiaries)4) Proper trust purpose: any purpose not illegal, fraudulent or against public policy5) Trustee, and6) Active duties imposed on the trustee (not dry)

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119
Q

Types of (private) trusts (3)

A

1) Inter Vivos Trust: Trust property must be placed into the trust during settlor’s lifetime2) Testamentary Trust = Created by Settlor’s will, often w/ “Pour over” provision directing the transfer of D’s property into a trust3) Totten Trust = Arrangement with bank that allows the depositor to open a bank account in his own name, as trustee for other parties, Beneficiary’s only right is to take what’s left in the account when the D dies

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120
Q

Duration of trusts

A

All private, non-charitable trusts must comply with RAPMajority of Jxns follow Wait-and-See Approach: whether a trust violates RAP depends upon what actually happens rather than what might happen

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121
Q

Duties of trustee

A

1) Trustee owes the beneficiaries a duty of loyalty and good faith, and is prohibited from:● Self-dealing with trust (even if done in good faith)● Obtaining a personal benefit other than the agreed-upon compensation● Obtaining a personal benefit for a third party with respect to dealings involving the trust estate● Being in an apparent conflict of interest with respect to the trust and third parties2) Trustee has an affirmative duty to preserve and enhance trust propertyo “Prudent Business Person” Rule: Trustee must use the degree of skill, care, and prudence exercised by a reasonable business person to use trust property in aproductive manner (higher standard if expertise)o Amounts to duty of care, duty to invest prudently, duty to diversify investiments

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122
Q

Spendthrift Trust

A

Beneficiary’s interest is inalienable, beneficiary cannot voluntarily transfer property and a creditor can’t reach it.Exception—Cannot be used to defeat a claim of:▪ Alimony or child support▪ Creditors who furnish necessities to the beneficiary▪ Government claims against the beneficiary

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123
Q

Discretionary Trust

A

Trustee pays as much income as he believes desirable.o Beneficiary’s creditors can get a lien on the trust but cannot get trust property until a distribution is made

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124
Q

Support trust

A

Distributions are based on the beneficiary’s needs

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125
Q

termination of trust by settlor: UPC and CL

A

CL: Presume trusts are irrevocable unless stated otherwiseUTC: Presume trusts are revocable unless stated otherwiseSettlor may terminate an irrevocable trust only with consent of all the beneficiaries

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126
Q

Termination of trust by Operation of Law

A

Where the trust property has been consumed, destroyed, or lost; the trust’s purposes have been fully accomplished; or accomplishment of the material purposes of the trust have become illegal, impossible, or impractical

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127
Q

Charitable trusts, reqs, features

A

Requirements1) charitable purpose (beneficial to the community)2) Beneficiaries must be indefiniteFeatures:o No ascertainable beneficiaries (except charity orgs)o RAP doesn’t applyo Cy Pres: allows trust to continue even if trust purpose has been accomplished or become impracticable or impossible (csn use for another charitable purpose that approximates Settlor’s intentions, but need a general charitable intent)

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128
Q

changing the beneficiary of a life insurance policy

A

majority of state require doing this thru the policy contract, not just thru a will. Courts will sometimes find substantial compliance to be sufficient

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129
Q

Incorporation by reference (will)

A

Extrinisic doc is incorporated into will if:1) Doc is in existence at time of execution of will2) will manifested an intent to incorporate the doc3) reasonable identification of the docThe writing need not be executed with testamentary formalities. Some states recognize the right of a testator to dispose of tangible personal property by a signed memorandum, prepared before or after the will, even if not executed w/formalities required of wills.

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130
Q

a handwritten will is…

A

…a holographic will if not attested, but it can become an attested will if properly witnessed, signed, etc, even if handwritten

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131
Q

When a will comprises several pieces of paper…

A

…testator doesn’t have to sign each page, but all pages must have been present at the time of execution.No requirement that the papers be stapled or otherwise physically connected

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132
Q

harmless error rule (wills)

A

under this rule, an alteration will be validated, even if itdoes not comply with the required formalities, if the proponent proves by clear and convincing evidence that the testator intended the alteration to constitute part of his will (minority?)

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133
Q

dependent relative revocation

A

Where a testator revokes a will with the intention that a newly executed will shall replace it and the new will is invalid, some jurisdictions will apply this doctrine: the court will admit the revoked will to probate on the theory that testator did not intend the revocation to occur unless the new will’s provisions should take effect (e.g. crossed out a provision in order to give someone more, but the addition fails, leaving them w/less).This does not produce result testator actuallyintended, but designed to come as close as possible

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134
Q

a nonmarital child can only inherit as a child of Testator if…

A

…paternity is established by applicable state law.

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135
Q

Public policy re Trust provisions

A

Trust provisions that violate public policy are void. A trust provision that encourages a beneficiary to refrain from marrying is contrary to public policy, except when the beneficiary is the settlor’s spouse.

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136
Q

“no further inquiry” rule

A

Under this rule, a court will not inquire into the motivation for a trustees self-dealing transaction or its fairness. Good faith does not prevent it from being a breach.

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137
Q

Remedies for self dealing of a trustee

A

trust beneficiaries can either rescind the transaction or seek damages.If beneficiary elects to rescind: trust property purchased by trustee is returned to the trust and the amount the trustee paid for the property is refunded by the trust.If the beneficiary seeks damages: beneficiary will receive the difference in the FMV of the trust assets at the time of the self-dealing transaction and the amount paid by the trustee.

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138
Q

Prudent investor rule

A

A trustee is permitted to invest trust assets as a prudent investor would, using reasonable care, skill, and caution. The trustee must consider both the investment’s ability to produce income and the safety of the principal. Diversification is evidence of prudent investing.A trustee is not liable for any decline in value due to a downturn in general economic conditions.

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139
Q

when does a security interest arise

A

A security interest arises when debtor uses property as collateral to secure repayment of funds to a secured party. To arise requires:1) a security agreement or possession of the collateral by the SP (usually w/an oral security agreement); and2) attachment

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140
Q

types of goods as collateral for Article 9 purposes

A

1) Consumer Goods = primarily for personal, family, or household purposes2) Inventory = held for sale or lease, or furnished undera contract for service (e.g., raw materials, work in progress, or business materials)3) Farm Products = Goods, other than standing timber, used in a farming operation4) Equipment = catchall for all other goods

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141
Q

ways a PMSI can arise (2)

A

if the obligation is incurred:1) as all or part of the price of the collateral (e.g., a direct-financing seller); or2) for value given to enable the debtor to acquire or use the collateral, if the value is in fact so used

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142
Q

what else, other than the collateral, does the holder of a security interest have a right to?

A

A security interest automatically extends to identifiable proceeds of the collateral

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143
Q

where to file a financing statement (to perfect)

A

Most collateral: at secretary of state’s office in the jurisdiction where Debtor is located (residence, etc), unlessIf collateral is a fixture: file at the county clerk’s office in the county where the land to which the fixture is attached is located

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144
Q

valid financing statement requires

A

1) names of Debtor and the secured party2) sufficient description of the collateral covered by the FS (super-generic is fine)3) must be filed in correct place4) must be authorized by debtor (Security agreement provides implied authorization)5) no errors that are seriously misleading

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145
Q

Debtor’s Name Changes

A

FS will perfect an SI in collateral acquired within four months of Debtor’s name change, unless the SP files an amendment to the FS within that four month period

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146
Q

Debtor Moves to Another State

A

SP must file a new FS in Debtor’s new state within four months of Debtor’s move

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147
Q

Lien creditor vs secured party

A

Secured party has priority over a LC if SP:1) perfects before the LC’s interest arises; or2) files a financing statement and evidences a security agreement (by authentication, possession, or control) before the LC’s interest arises3) PMSI takes priority over an intervening LC if PMSI is perfected within 20 days of Debtor receiving collateral

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148
Q

Cases where a security interest does NOT survive a sale (3)

A

1) Secured party authorized the sale free of the SI;2) buyer in the ordinary course of business (BIOCOB); 3) consumer-to-consumer transaction, consumer goods (purchase for value, without knowledge, BEFORE FS is filed)

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149
Q

BIOCOB (buyer in the ordinary course of business), 4 reqs

A

A BIOCOB is a person who:1) buys in good faith;2) without knowledge that sale violates SP’s rights in the goods;3) in the ordinary course of business; and4) from a person in the business of selling those goods

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150
Q

Rights of Secured party upon default

A

1) Repossession: is possible w/o breach of the peace2) action in Replevin to get sheriff to seize property

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151
Q

Notice req before sale of colleteral upon default: parties, timing, content

A

1) Must send to: Debtor, any filed SPs, and any other person for whom the SP has received notification of an interest in the collateral2) Timing: must sent w/i reasonable time before the sale(10 days is always sufficient)3) Contents: Non-consumer transactiono description of Debtor and SP;o description of the collateral;o method of intended disposition, sale time/locationo a statement that Debtor is entitled to an accounting of all unpaid indebtedness; andConsumer transaction must additionally include:o description of any liability for a deficiency;o contract info to information re redemption; ando contact info for additional information

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152
Q

If a sale of collateral is a commercially unreasonable

A

if it is a non-commerical transaction, deficiency is reduce to 0 because presumption that the deficiency amount would have been the difference.Can be rebutted by SP showing that the collateral was worth less than the amount left on the debt.

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153
Q

Duties of agents to P

A

1) Duty of care2) duty of loyalty3) duty to account for money/property recieved for P4) Duty not to comingle assets5) duty of candor: disclose facts P might want to know

154
Q

Partial ratification

A

no such thing as partial ratification in an agency relationship. If P ratifies partly, the entire act is ratified.

155
Q

liability of an undisclosed P when an agent enters into a K on their behalf

A

P will be liable if, subsequent to the transaction, the third party discovers the identity of the undisclosed principal.

156
Q

When does Apparent Authority apply

A

no actual authority, but reasonable belief agent had authority based on presentations of PRINCIPAL.Therefore generally not applicable when P is undisclosed.Also, not applicable to tort liablity, only K liability.

157
Q

categorization of different types of trust assets

A

Under the Uniform Principal and Income Act, rents and cash dividends received are allocated to trust income, and Sales proceeds and stock dividends are allocated to the principal of the trust.

158
Q

for a prenup to be enforceable

A

majority follow UPAA (Uniform Premarital AgreementAct), unenforceable if:● The agreement wasn’t voluntary, or● There was a lack of reasonable disclosure, and the agreement was unconscionable when executedProcedural and substantive

159
Q

proper Subject matter of premarital agreements

A

o Property division: permissibleo Waiver of alimony: permissibleo Children: invalid as against public policy to limit the obligation to support her minor childreno Sex: Majority says provisions re frequency of sex and child bearing are not enforceable (UPAA permits)

160
Q

Marriage: formal and CL

A

Formal: license + Solemnization (state-authorized official)Common Law Marriage:● Capacity to marry,● Consent: present intent to be married,● Cohabitation,● Consummation of the marriage, and● Community: holding out as a married coupleOutlawed in most states, but generally recognized if performed validly in another state

161
Q

Annulment

A

Judicial declaration that the marriage is invalid.Void (automatically invalid): Bigamy, IncestVoidable: marriages are valid until and unless the aggrieved party obtains an annulment● Grounds: Non-age, Impotence, Temporary lack of capacity (e.g., drunkenness), Mental incompetence

162
Q

Establishing paternity

A

Marital presumption, rebutted by clear and convincing evidence (i.e. DNA), also see UPAEstoppel: father may be estopped from denying paternity in certain instancesActions Brought by Putative Father: many states give an unmarried father 2 years to establish paternity when his alleged child has a presumed fatheredActions by child: before age 18, while father is alive

163
Q

Uniform Parentage Act (UPA)

A

presumptions of paternity in two circumstances, rebutted only by genetic testing:1) married mother after child’s born and the man voluntarily asserted his paternity (such as by agreeing to be named as child’s father on birth certificate); or2) for the first 2 years of child’s life, resided with the child openly held out the child as his own

164
Q

Considerations for custody (4)

A

best interest of the child, determined by examination of all relevant factors including:1) wishes of parents2) the wishes of the child as to his custodian;3) interrelationship of child with parents, siblings and any other person who may significantly affect the child’s best interest; and4) mental and physical health of all individuals involved.

165
Q

Jxn for Divorce Proceedings

A

SMJ: Established if one spouse is domiciled in the state when the action is filedPersonal Jurisdiction: needed over D to enter or enforce any decrees in personam (e.g., child support)

166
Q

Fault-Based Grounds for divorce (6)

A

[AAIICC]1) Abandonment/Desertion2) Adultery3) Impotence4) Intoxication or excessive use of addictive drugs5) Cruelty6) felony Conviction (more than one year of incarceration)

167
Q

No-Fault Divorce

A

Requires proof that:1) Marriage is irretrievably broken (or irreconcilable differences between spouses) and no reasonable prospect of reconciliation, and2) Parties have been separated for a definitive period of time

168
Q

Property Division

A

Most states follow equitable distribution:Step 1: Classify Property as Marital or Separate● Marital Property: jointly owned and jointly acquired through the labor of the parties, or acquired during marriage● Separate Property: owned before marriage, acquired after dissolution of marriage, excluded by premarital agreement, or acquired by gift or inheritance to onespouse. For increased value of separate property note reason for the increase (passive appreciation vs labor of the parties)● Mixed Character, Commingled, or Transmuted Property: traced to its source● Classification of Particular Types of Assetso Step 2: Value the Property● Valuation is determined at the date the parties separateo Step 3: Divide the Property● Court determines what is an equitable distribution of all marital property basedon a number of factors, including:▪ Length of marriage▪ Standard of living during the marriage▪ Contributions (monetary and non-monetary) of each party during the marriage▪ Current financial circumstances of each party

169
Q

Classification of Assets for property division▪ Marital Residence▪ Pension/Retirement Accounts▪ Stock Option▪ Debt

A

▪ Marital Residence: if marital earnings were used to pay off mortgage, can be both separate and marital property,reimburse marital estate for mortgage payments▪ Pension/Retirement Accounts: whether or not accounts are vested they are subject to equitabledistribution but not premarital contributions or post-separation increases▪ Stock Option: marital prop is granted to a spouse during marriage▪ Debt: marital if incurred during marriage

170
Q

Types of Alimony/Spousal Maintenance (3)

A

1) Periodic: certain amount paid at set intervals, usually monthly; obligation generally continues until the recipient dies, remarries, or court modifies order2) Lump Sum: fixed amount (not a periodic obligation), cannot be modified3) Rehabilitative: awarded for a limited period of time, until recipient can become self-supporting by working

171
Q

Grounds for spousal support/alimony, factors (3)

A

Under UMDA, alimony only if the spouse seeking:● Lacks sufficient property to provide for his/her reasonable means, and● Either: is unable to support himself thru employment, OR unable to work due to taking care of a child with special needsFactors:1) Parties’ respective financial resources and needs,2) Contributions each has made to the marital relationship (financially or by providing care at home),3) Length of marriage

172
Q

Modification and Termination of alimony

A

Most jurisdictions place a heavy burden on the party requesting modification, require a substantial change in circumstances that rendered the original awardunreasonable and unfairTermination: generally terminates:● After a specified period of time,● On the death of either spouse, or● Automatically on remarriage or cohabitation

173
Q

Child support

A

Owed by both parents: custodial parent presumed to provide so order is entered against non-custodialTo calculate: most states use CS guidelines, mathematical formula based on income of parents.If court deviates from guidelines, must give a written explanation

174
Q

Modification of child support

A

Modification: only if party shows a substantial and continuing change in circumstances making the prior order unreasonableUniform Interstate Family Support Act (UIFSA):Once a state issues a CS order consistent with the jurisdiction requirements of UIFSA, that court has continuing, exclusive jurisdiction over CS so long as:● child or any party still resides in the issuing state; and● All of the parties do not consent to change Jxn to a new state.

175
Q

Parent Rights

A

1) Custody and Controlo Parent who is living, competent, and has not been found unfit is entitled to custody of the minor child and to direct her education and medical care (HERW)o For a non-parent to seek custody or visitation rights,significant deference must be given to a legal parent’s 2) Support Rights and Obligationso obligation to support is terminated when child reaches majority (18 generally) or is legally emancipated

176
Q

UCCJEA

A

=Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction & Enforcement Act Initial Jurisdiction: under UCCJEA, a state court can adjudicate over matters impacting a child if it has jurisdiction over the child (not parents).State X has jurisdiction over child:1) If State X is “home state” – child lived in State X since birth or at least the last 6 months?2) If no home state, does State X have significant connections to the child?3) If no home state and State X does not have significant connections, is State X nevertheless the most appropriate forum for the matter?4) If no to all three, is State X the default jurisdiction?Continuing and Exclusive Jurisdiction● Once a state has made a valid child-custody determination under the UCCJEA, it has exclusive jurisdiction over custody until:1) A court determines that neither child nor one parent have a significant connection with the state and substantial evidence is no longer available in the state regarding the child’s welfare; or2) A child or both parents move out of the state

177
Q

governing law for corps

A

MBCA= Model Business Corporation Act (“Model Act”)

178
Q

If the corporation has cumulative voting and less than the entire board is to be removed, no director can be removed if:

A

…the votes against removal would be sufficient to elect him under cumulative voting rules. This is a way a shareholdler with less than a majority can still use those votes to get someone elected

179
Q

duties of controlling SHs

A

Duty of good faith to refrain from exercising control so as to obtain a benefit not shared proportionately with minority SHs (i.e. when controlling SHs gets something that the others don’t,)e.g. issuing additional stock to a majority shareholder at less than FMV for purpose of diluting the interest of minority SHs; causing the board to institute a “no dividend” policy while increasing the salary of certain shareholder-employees, etc

180
Q

distribution of lottery earnings upon divorce

A

goes by whether the winning ticket was purchased during the marriage

181
Q

when does property received stop being marital property (majority/minority)

A

when the marriage effectively ends.Majority: upon entering of final divorce decreeMinority: date of permanent separation or of divorce filing

182
Q

Are contingent expectancies subject to equitable distribution?

A

yes, if they were acquired through spousal efforts during the marriage (i.e. future royalties will be apportioned)

183
Q

some factors courts consider in determining equitable distribution of marital property (4)

A

▪ Length of marriage▪ Standard of living during the marriage▪ Contributions (monetary and non-monetary) of each party during the marriage▪ Current financial circumstances of each party

184
Q

Kap method

A
  1. Read (interrogatory, facts, interogatory)2. Organize and Analyze (parties, transactions, theories of law; more precise analysis)3. Write and Weave in facts (IRAC, “The issue is… Here, … Therefore…,” answer the Q)
185
Q

Broad topics for Real Property (5)

A

1) Ownership (estates, cotenancy, LL/T)2) Property Rights (covenants, easements, profits, license, fixtures, zoning/variance)3) Real Estate Contracts (K law, marketability, equitable conversion, implied warranties, merger)4) Mortgages/Security devices (type/deed/note/installment/PMM, title/lien theory, transfers, foreclosure)5) Titles (AP, deeds, recording acts, etc)

186
Q

checkpoints for estates (3)

A

1) Does the deed language create a fee simple, defeasible fee, or life estate?2) Is a future interest retained or created? (reversion, remainders, executory interests, or reverter)3) Are there any rules or conduct that affect the estate or future interest? (class gifts, survivorship, waste, or cy pres, RAP, alienability, descendibility, or devisability)

187
Q

checkpoints for cotenancy (2)

A

1) Was a tenancy in common or joint tenancy created? (time, title, interest, possession with express right of survivorship?)2) Was the joint tenancy severed (sale, partition, or mortgage)? If yes, what resulting rights?

188
Q

checkpoints for Landlord-tenant (5)

A
  1. What type of lease do LL and T have? What is the required notice?2. Any express agreements creating additional rights/duties?3. assignment or sublease? Who is liable for rent?4. Was a duty breached (express, implied, CL)?5. What remedies? (eviction, reduce rent, surrender, relet, sue)
189
Q

checkpoints for Restrictive covenant (3)

A
  1. Does the burden and/or benefit run with the land?2. damages or injunction being sought?3. Can the covenant be enforced as an equitable servitude or implied reciprocalservitude?
190
Q

checkpoints for Easements

A
  1. Is the non-possessory property interest an easement in gross or appurtenant?2. created by writing, implication, prescription, or estoppel?3. Was the scope exceeded? (surcharged)4. Was there a transfer or termination?
191
Q

Broad topics for civ pro (7)

A

1) Jurisdiction and Venue2) Law applied by fed courts3) Pretrial Procedures4) Jury Trials5) Motions6) Verdicts and Judgments7) Appealability and Review*think in terms of a timeline

192
Q

Jurisidiction and Venue issues (4)

A

1) Federal SMJ: diversity or FQ2) Personal Jurisdiction: presence, waiver, contacts/fairness3) Service and notice: proper, waiver4) Venue, Forum nc, transfer

193
Q

Law applied by fed courts issues

A

1) State law: Erie2) Fed CL: maritime, foreign relations, commercial/property rights/liabilities of fed govt

194
Q

Pretrial Procedures issues (7)

A

1) PI/TRO: status quo, irreparable harm, notice2) Pleadings, amended, supplemental: Twiqbal, right/permission3) Rule 11: signed, sanctions, safe harbor4) Joinder of parties/claims: compulsary, permissuve, crossclaim, impleader, class actions (CANT)5) Discovery: disclosure, sanctions, timing, privilege6) Adjudication w/o trial: dismissal, default7) Pretrial conference, scheduling

195
Q

Jury Trials issues (3)

A

1) Right: legal remedy, damages2) Selection: voir dire, strikes3) Jury instructions, objections

196
Q

Motions issues (3)

A

1) Pretrial: motion to dismiss, Summary Judgment, etc2) JMOL, renewed JMOL3) Post trial motions: relief from judgment, new trial, timing

197
Q

Verdicts and Judgments (4)

A

1) Defaults, dismissals2) Jury verdicts: unanimous, general/special3) Judicial findings4) Claim/Issue preclusion

198
Q

Appealability and Review

A

1) Interlocutory review2) Final judgment rule: on the merits3) Scope of review: objections, standard

199
Q

Crim law checklist (vi)

A

i) Crimes against the personii) Crimes against propertyiii) Crimes against habitationiv) Accomplice liablityv) Inchoate offensesvi) Defenses

200
Q

Crimes against the person (vi)

A

i) Murder: unlawful killing, malice aforethought (intent, injury, reckless, felony)ii) Voluntary manslaughter: adequate provocation, no time to cool off.iii) Involuntary manslaughter: criminal negligenceOR during misdemeanor/non BARRK felonyiv) Battery: bodily injury or offensive touching, gen intentv) Assault: attempted battery (spec intent) or threat (gen intent); merger if battery occurs.vi) Other Common law Crimes Against the Person: False Imprisonment, Kidnapping, Rape

201
Q

Crimes against property (viii)

A

i) Larceny: a wrongful taking and carrying away of the personal property of another by trespass (without consent), with intent (at time of taking) to deprive permanently.ii) Embezzlement: Requires fraudulent conversion (i.e. inconsistent w/arrangement by which D has possession) of personal property of another; (5) by a person in lawfulpossession of that property; (6) with intent to defraud.iii) Robbery (larceny + assault) requires: wrongful taking of personal property of another, from the other’s person or presence, by force or threat of immediate physical harm, w/intent to permanently deprive him of it.iv) False Pretenses: Obtaining title by intentional false statement of fact, w/intent to defraud.v) Larceny by trick: Obtaining possession (not title) through fraud, with intent to steal.vi) Extortion: (blackmail) Obtaining property of another by threat of future harm to the victim or property.vii) Receiving Stolen Property: known to be stolen, with intent to permanently deprive owner.viii) Forgery: Fraudulently making a false writing, with apparent legal significance, with intent to make wrongful use of doc.

202
Q

Crimes against habitation

A

1) Burglary: a breaking an entry of the dwelling of another at night with the intent to commit a felony inside.2) Arson: malicious burning of the dwelling of another

203
Q

Accomplice liability

A

with intent, aids, counsels, or encourages

204
Q

Inchoate offenses (3)

A

1) Solicitation: Enticing, advising, inciting, inducing, urging or otherwise encouraging commit a target offense.2) Conspiracy: Two or more persons, intent to enter agreement, for unlawful purpose, act in furtherance3) Attempt: Specific intent to commit the crime, an overt act in furtherance.

205
Q

Defenses (7)

A

A) Insanity – 4 tests for Acquittal: M’Naghten Rule; Irresistible Impulse Test; Durham Test; MPCB. Intoxication (voluntary or involuntary)C. Infancy (under 7= no liability; under 14 = rebuttable presumption against liability)D. Duress (not a defense for homicide)E. Self-Defense (non-deadly v. deadly, retreat req)F. Defense of a Dwelling (only non-deadly force)G. Necessity: justifies commission

206
Q

Crim law essay tips/approaches

A
  1. Be overinclusive in identifying crimes; classify as crimes against persons, property, or dwellings checklist2) Note language suggesting intent/mental state like: unknowingly, without knowledge, and unbeknownst.3) Remember to consider defenses, more than one.4) Multiple bad actors: think conspiracy, solicitation,accomplice liability.v) transferred intent will likely result in the ability to charge D with multiple crimes (ex: battery and attempted battery (assault)).
207
Q

Contacts essay checkpoints (6)

A
  1. Formation2. Defenses to enforceability (reasons not to enforce)3. Contract content/meaning (dispute, writing, terms, default rules)4. Performance/Breach/Discharge (substantial/part performance, unforeseen events, anticipatory repudiation, warranties)5. Remedies (foreseeability, avoidability, detrimental reliance, law/equity, unjust enrichment)6. Third Party Rights (intended, incidental)
208
Q

Formation of contracts issues (6)

A

Mutual assent1. Offer inviting acceptance?2. issues w/offer? (lapse, revocation, option contract, Firm Offer, rejection/counteroffer, preexisting duty)3. Acceptance? (communication, performance, correspondence)4. Acceptance issues? (mailbox rule, silence, battle of the forms)5. Consideration, or some substitute?6. Was promise terminated in some way?

209
Q

Defenses to enforceability: reasons not to enforce (7)

A

A. Statute of Frauds (MYLEGS)B. Mistake (unilateral? knowledge?C. IllegalityD. Incapacity (mental, physical, substance)E. InfancyF. Unconscionability (subst/proc)G. Duress/Fraud

210
Q

Contacts essay tips/approach (4)

A

1) CL or UCC 2 sales: predominant purpose2) Writings vs spoken words, see both (note: SoF = defense, not formation issue!)3) Numbers: dates, money, ages4) Remedies: think broadly!

211
Q

three criteria that should be considered/discussed in evaluating whether a regulation is a taking:

A

(1) economic impact of the regulation on the claimant; (2) extent to which the regulation has interfered with investment-backed expectations; and(3) character of the governmental action.Private use is fine, as long as for public purpose

212
Q

Approach for exclusionary rule

A

A. Is Someone trying to exclude a particular piece of evidence?B. Was the evidence illegally obtained?C. Was there an independent source or was it inevitably going to be discovered?

213
Q

Approach for 4th Amd Search and Seizure

A

Step by step approach: start w/explanation of what the 4th Amend prohibits, then explain when it applies, and then move to the spec exception/requirement at issue.Issues:A. Does D have a 4th Amendment right?B. Did D have a reasonable expectation of privacy?C. Was there government action?D. If yes, did the government agent have a warrant?E. Was the warrant valid and properly executed?F. If the police did not have a warrant, did they make a valid warrantless search?

214
Q

Considerations/possibilities for a valid warrantless search? (five steps)

A
  1. search incident to a lawful arrest (SITLA)?2. Was the search of an automobile? if yes, need probable cause?3. Was the search of a plain view area?4. Was consent given voluntarily and intelligently by someone with authority?5. Did a stop and frisk occur? If so, need either reasonable articulable suspicion, or done while in hot pursuit or related to evanescent evidence?
215
Q

Fifth Amd rights (3)

A

1) Privilege against self-incrimination2) Right to counsel: NOT offense specific, must STOP interrogation of ANY issue3) Double Jeopardy

216
Q

Privilege against self-incrimination approach (4 steps)

A

*Miranda: establish custody + interrogation (step by step)1. Was the defendant in custody?2. Was there an interrogation?3. Were Miranda warnings given?4. Did the defendant knowingly, voluntarily, and intelligently waive their rights?

217
Q

Double Jeopardy

A

Once jeopardy attaches, the D may not be retried for the same offense.Test:1) Same Offense: not same if crime requires proof of an additional element. Lesser included offenses usually = same offense. If separate Sovereigns ≠ same offense.2. Exceptions permitting re-trial: (1) Hung jury; (2) Mistrial for manifest necessity; (3) Re-trial after successful appeal; (4) Breach of an agreed upon plea bargain

218
Q

Sixth Amd right to counsel approach

A

A. Did D have a right to Counsel? Applies during a post charge line-up or other critical stageB. Was D’s right to a speedy trial violated?C. Was D’s right to a jury trial violated?D. Was D’ s right to confront witnesses violated?

219
Q

8th Amend approach

A

1) Was D inflicted with cruel and unusual punishment (proportionate to the offense?2) The Death Penalty: was D given a chance to present mitigating facts and circumstances?Mitigating/Aggravating facts: State may not by statute limit the mitigating factors; all relevant mitigatingevidence must be admissible or the statute is unconstitutional. Only a jury and not a judge may determine the aggravating factors justifying imposition of the death penalty.

220
Q

Crim proc approach for 14th Amd Due Process

A
  1. Did the prosecution prove each element beyond a reasonable doubt?2. Was there an identification which was unnecessarily suggestive?
221
Q

Commonly connected MEE crim proc questions

A

● Search, Warrant, Miranda● Terry Stop, Miranda, Exclusionary Rule● Custody, Interrogation, Miranda, Line-up

222
Q

to be valid, Waiver of Miranda rights must be…

A

knowing, intelligent, and voluntary

223
Q

Evidence checklist

A

1) Presentation of Evidence2) Relevancy and Exclusion3) Privileges and other policy exclusions4) Writings, recordings, photos (original/exact copy, otherwise need authentication, BER issues)5) Hearsay admissibility: def, exceptions (availability), exemptions (nonhearsay)

224
Q

Presentation of Evidence issues

A

A. Introduction of evidence: personal knowledge, refreshing memory. objections and offers of proof (timely?), lay opinions, competency (disqualifying facts” age, insanity, etc), judicial noticeB. Presumptions: burden shifting, inferences, rebuttable presumptionsC. Impeachment on cross (prior inconsistent statements; biased/interested party; felony/crime of dishonesty, specific incidents, reputation for lies, etc) or Rehabilitation on redirect (clarification of facts, reputation for truth, Prior consistent statements)D. FRE applicable in Federal civil and criminal cases (not prelim determinations, grand juries, probation, sentencing, warrants, bail)

225
Q

Relevancy and Exclusion issues

A

A. Probative value: relevance (makes a fact more or less likely to be true), 403 (probative value outweighs prejudicial effect), no unfair prejudice, confusion, or waste timeB. AuthenticationC. Character etc: admissibility (civil v. criminal cases), reputation or opinion, Habit/routine, crimes or bad acts to show MIMIC (motive, intent, mistake, identity, or common plan or scheme), sexual misconductD. Expert testimony: qualified (specialized skill, knowledge, or training). will assist trier of fact and based on observation, facts presented at trial, or reliable information in field of expertise, Ultimate issue rule (opinion on issue is ok, but not on req mental state), reliable in the field, proper subject matter (specialized knowledge)E. Real, demonstrative, and experimental evidence: need authentication if admitted, risk of unfair prejudice?

226
Q

Privileges and other policy exclusions issues

A

A. Exclude based on privilege: Spousal immunity/marital communications; attorney-client; work product;physician/psychotherapist-patient; 5th Amend; otherB. Exclude based on policy: insurance; remedial measures; settlement; offer to pay medical expenses;plea negotiations; victim’s past sexual conduct

227
Q

Evidence tips

A

● Consider each piece/statement separately.● Think inclusively about admissibility, possible ways to admit, consider broad array of rules.● Ask: Civil or criminal? Relevant? More probative than prejudicial? Purpose (impeachment or substantive)?Exclusion?

228
Q

Confrontation clause

A

Always discuss this in evidence cases.Triggered if witness isn’t testifying. Applies to TESTIMONIAL statements.For statements to police/911 calls, ask: was primary purpose to resolve ongoing emergency or assist in investigation?

229
Q

Con law essay checklist

A

1) The Nature of Judicial Review: courts and jxn2) Separation of powers: congress, exec, interbranch3) Federalism issues: immunities and limits4) Individual rights: PDP, SDP, EqP, takings, 1st Amd, etc

230
Q

The Nature of Judicial Review issues

A

A. state and federal courts, source of federal judicial power (Art III, Section 1)B. Jurisdiction: Art III Section 2 limits the jurisdiction of federal courts, 11th amendment and sovereign immunity prohibits suits against the government without consentC. Judicial review in operation: Case or controversy (real and substantial dispute), issues that prohibit review based on standing, ripeness, mootness, abstention, political question, or advisory opinions; adequate andindependent state grounds

231
Q

Separation of powers issues

A

A. Powers of Congress: interstate commerce (channels, instrumentalities, or activities substantially affecting), taxing and spending (common defense and general welfare), war and armed forces, 13th-15th Amends, other powers (investigatory, property, eminent domain, maritime, bankruptcy, postal, and copyright/patent)B. Powers of the president: enforce laws, comman military, foreign relations, pardon, appointmentC. Interbranch relationships: checking powers on exec (impeachment, investigation, legislative veto, appropriations, agencies), exec checking congress (veto or not signing legislation), federal government immunity (suits, state tax, other state regulations)

232
Q

Federalism issues

A

A. Intergovernmental immunities: state regulating/taxing fed govt, fed commanding the state to act (10th Amend)B. Federalism-based limits on state authority: discriminating against out-of-state actors or substantiallyburdening interstate commerce (DCC), supremacy clause, preemption, congressional authorization

233
Q

Individual rights issues (6)

A

A. State action requirement: govt functionB. Due process: SDP (fundamental right infringed), PDP (life, liberty, or property; Matthews test)C. Equal protection: fundamental right, SSP treated differently, classification, scrutiny owedD. Takings: private property without just compensationE. Other protections: P&I (citizens of another state), Contracts Clause (impairs existing obligation), Bills of attainder (specific individuals or groups without trial), Ex Post Facto (retroactive criminal laws)F. First Amendment freedoms: relig, establishment, speech, press, association

234
Q

1st Amd issuses (4)

A

1) Freedom of religion, separation of church and state:a) Free exercise: punishment based on beliefsb) Establishment: preference of relig (SS applies), or neutral (Lemon test: secular purpose, does not advance or inhibit, no excessive government entanglement)2) Freedom of speech:a) content-specific (SS applies) vs content-neutral (public/privare forum)b) unprotected speech: hostile speech, fighting words, obscenity, incitement of violencec) Commercial speech: intermediate scrutinyd) Unconst’l b/c prior restraint, vague, or overbroad?3) Freedom of the press: Is the reporting truthful, a matter of public interest, lawfully obtained4) Freedom of association: govt targeting group membership

235
Q

con law essay tips

A

● For each Q, determine where issue falls within the maintopics: reviewability of a case? powers of the branches?Federalism? Individual rights?● Keep track of the who, what, when, where, and how: who’s acting (state, fed), what are they doing (reg, leg), order of the events, where, etc● if the government is telling you what you can or cannot say: content-specific and strict scrutiny applies.

236
Q

Torts essay checklist

A

1) Intentional torts: claims, defenses2) Negligence: duty, breach, cause, limits, damages, defenses3) Strict Liability (animals, abnormally dangerous activities, defenses) and Products liability (manufacturer/design defect, distribution chain liable, express or implied warranty, defenses)4) Other Torts: public/private nuisance, invasion of privacy (intrusion, appropriation, public disclosure, false light), defamation (libel or slander, public/private, malice, truth), Misrepresentation (intentional or negligent), Interference with contractual/business relations

237
Q

Intentional torts issues

A

A. Types: assault, battery, false imprisonment,intentional infliction of emotional distress, trespass to land and chattels, conversion?B. Defenses: Consent, necessity, privileges, defense of self and others, parental discipline, protection of property, or others.

238
Q

Negligence issues (8)

A

A. Duty: foreseeable P, special relationshipB. Standard of care/Breach: RPP standard, other standard (children, mentally/physically impaired, professionals), Breach (conduct falling below the standard owed), statute or custom defining the duty/standard (neg, custom)C. Problems relating to proof of fault: Res Ipsa (wouldn’t normally occur w/o neg)D. Problems relating to causation: Cause-in-fact (but-for test, substantial factor, J/S liability), Proximate cause (foreseeablePs, superseding or intervening causes)E. Limitations on liability and special rules:harm too remote/unforeseeable, superseding cause breaks chain of causation, owners/occupiers of land, NIED (zone of danger, bystander, pure economic loss)F. Liability for acts of others: employee vs contractor, nondelegable dutyG. Damages: actual damages, Eggshell skull plaintiff, personal injury (pain, suffering, medical, lost wages) or property damagesH. Defenses: reduced or barred under a contributory fault or comparative neg. assumption of risk (knowingly, voluntarily)

239
Q

Torts essay tips

A

● For broad Qs, keeptrack of: actors/potential Ds, D’sact(s) and/or intent, P’s harm.● Have an organizational strategy when dealing with multiple claims and or Ds● First, prima facie case, then any applicable defenses. Remember, defenses are not counter-arguments to establishing PF case.● Comparative and contributory negligence are defenses - NOT calculation of damages. Default is pure comparative negligence

240
Q

Agency essay checklist (5)

A

1) Was an agency r’ship created? (words, conduct)2) Agent’s power to bind principal (implied/express, scope, ratification)3) Contractual liability to 3rd parties (actual/apparent authority, un/disclosed principal)4) Liability to 3rd parties in tort (negligence, intentional, vicarious, frolic/furtherance, employee/contractor)5) Fiduciary duties: care, loyalty (self-dealing)

241
Q

Partnership essay checklist (6)

A

1) Creation: business for profit, type (formalities), agreement (provisions)2) Conducting business: rights of partners (general/limited, profits/loses, mgmt, info). disputes (resolving), transfers of interest3) Duties: care, loyalty, disclosure, breach/remedies4) Liability to 3rd parties: personal, general/limited, j/s5) Dissolution: wrongful, winding up, notice, creditors6) Limited Partnerships: control, agreement, formation

242
Q

Agency/Partnership essay tips

A

● Analyze each type of authority (express, implied, and apparent). Look for apparent authority (common)● If fact pattern discusses an unclear/imporperly formed corporation, analyze if a partnership was created.● Whether parties are calling it a partnership is NOT determinative (just mult people in business for profit)● A partner has the power to dissociate, but can be wrongful, may have liability for breaches of a partnership agreement● Agency often tested w/other subjects. e.g. partnership, torts

243
Q

Corporations essay checkpoints (9)

A

1) Formation: articles (filing), bylaws, de jure/ de facto2) Pre-organization transactions: promoter liablity, Ks to buy shares (subscriptions)3) Piercing the Veil: alter ego, capitalization, formalities, tort4) Financing: security equity, stock classes, dividends, repurchase5) Managment/control: SHs, directors, officers, members6) Fiduciary Duties: care, loyalty, breach, BJR7) Close corps, control devices: restrictions of share transfers (reasonable, conspicuous), resolution procedures, judicial dissolution, etc8) Organizational structure: amendments, fundamental changes (mergers, consolidations, SoSAA), notice, dissenters, dissolution, liquidation9) SH/member litigation: direct, derivative

244
Q

Management and Control issues (corps)

A

A. Shareholders: meetings (annual, notice, quorum), voting (proxy, voting agreement, straight/cumulative)B. Directors: regular/special meeting (notice, quorum), unanimous written consent, delegation to committees, objection (dissent, abstention)C. Officers: actual/apparent authority, liabilityD. Members and managers: LLCs (presumed to be member managed), operating agreement, other types(manager managed), majority approval/ratification

245
Q

Corps essay tips

A

● Piercing the corporate veil, often a closely held corp● Fundamental corporate change, often involves issues of procedure and interested director transactions.● valid incorporation does not need to be addressed when we are informed that a business entity has been properly formed.● A director’s presence at a director’s meeting does not be physical presence; unless the articles/bylaws require otherwise; only need presence via communication that allow all participants in meeting to hear each other.● Generally, shareholders do not owe a duty of care, except in closely held corporations b/c they have amanagement role

246
Q

Trusts essay checkpoints

A

1) Creation and Construction: type, creation, limits2) Powers and Duties of Trustees: fiduciary duties of Care, Loyalty (self dealing, personal benefit, conflict of interest), good faith, managing trust res (prudent business person), Accounting3) Modification and Termination: who is requesting?4) Future Interests: RAP, powers of appointment

247
Q

Creation and Construction issues (trusts)

A

A. Classification: express (inter vivos, testamentary, pour over, Totten, charitable, honorary, spendthrift, discretionary, implied (Resulting, constructive)B. Creation: settlor capacity/intent, delivery of trust res, ascertainable beneficiaries, valid purpose, active duties imposed, trusteeC. Alienability of trust interests: limitation on beneficiary transferD. Construction problems: issues involving survivorship or gifts to classes/heirs/issue, ascertaining beneficiaries, close closing

248
Q

Trusts essay tips

A

● Commonly issues: Creation and type, Beneficiaries/creditors interests, management and duties of trustee, Modification/termination of trust● Cy pres for charitable trusts, court chooses alternativecharity (close to original purpose) when the original purpose is impossible or impracticable.● Re termination of the trust, consider these cases: 1) trust purpose is accomplished, 2) the trust property is exhausted, 3) all beneficiaries consent, and 4) the settlor can revoke or modify

249
Q

Wills essay checklist

A

1) Intestate Succession: SS, kids, others, advance, 120 hours2) Wills: execution, codicils, revocation, revival, contracts, construction, constents3) Family protection: elective share, after-born/ pretermitted child4) Living wills and durable Healthcare power: signed, witnessed, eligibility, power

250
Q

Intestate succession issues

A

A. Share of surviving spouse: descendants or parents of decedent?B. Share of children: adopted and half-blood (same), nonmarital children (inherit from mother, or from father too if paternity adjudicated or proved or marriage)C. Share of ancestors and collaterals: if no surviving spouse/descendants, see if any other kinD. Advancements: writing and acknowledgement that the gift is advance on inheritance?E. Simultaneous death: Did heir survive by 120 hours?

251
Q

Wills issues

A

A. Execution requirements: UPC or state law (of T’s domicile), required formalities, Holographic will (signed, written in testator’s hand), interested witnessB. Codicils etc: amendment or modification to will, executed w/same formalities as the will, integration of other referenced docs, incorporation by reference (existed before will was executed, intent to incorporate), other facts of independent significanceC. Revocation: by operation of law, subsequent will, or physical actD: Revival: intent to revive the previous will? Is second will revoked?E. Contract to make, refrain from making or revoking a will?F. Construction problems: changes in property and/or beneficiaries affecting bequest? issues of lapse, ademption, accretions, satisfaction, Slayer Act,disclaimers, simultaneous death, abatement, legacies, class gifts, gifts to children and issue.G. Will contests: attack on validity, issues of age, capacity, undue influence, fraud, mistake, no-contest clauses, standing to contest.H. Nonprobate transfers: inter vivos gifts, joint tenancy, tentative trusts, pay-on-death accounts, or any other nonprobate transfersI. Powers and duties of personal representative: appropriate administration of estate

252
Q

often tested key sub-topics for agency (4)

A

(1) the agent’s power to bind the principal;(2) the principal’s power to ratify acts of a purported agent;(3) an employee’s scope of employment.(4) liability of P to third parties: vicarious (strict) liability, apparent authority

253
Q

Rights in land (non-ownership)

A

Right to dictate how the land is to be used.1) Covenant (PINT, damages)2) Equitable Servitude (PIN, injunction)Make affirmative use of the land.1) Easements 2) Profits 3) Licenses

254
Q

Checklist for easements (3)

A

a. Was the easement ever properly created? b. What is the scope of the easement? c. Has the easement ever been terminated?

255
Q

plaintiff seeking to pierce the corporate veil must prove:

A

(1) shareholder “control” that effectively renders the corporate form a façade,(2) use of the corporate form to obtain an improper or fraudulent purpose, and(3) injury or unjust loss resulting from this wrongful use of the corporate form.

256
Q

a “piercing the corporate veil” analysis is typically triggered by one of two fact patterns:

A

(1) a close corp (public corps are not pierced) in which corporate formalities are not observed and corporate and personal funds are commingled, and(2) a parent corp and its subsidiary when there is insufficient segregation of their respective businesses, records, and finances.

257
Q

family law essay tips

A

● difference between voidable and void. Voidable if: under age, impotent, intoxication, duress, fraud, and mental incompetence. Void if: Failure to meet legal requirements (no license or ceremony, close relations, polygamy, lack of capacity).● Review factors that the court will consider in applying the BIOC standard for issues involving child support, custody, or adoption.● The “substantial and material change in circumstances” standard is used for issues involving modification of support.● Be sure to review relevant statutes such as the UPAA, UPA, UCCJEA, PKPA, and UIFSA

258
Q

Family law checklist

A
  1. Getting Married: gifts in anticipation, limitations (incest, age, bigamy), formalities, capacity, CL marriage, prenup2. Being Married: duty to support, privacy, consortium3. Separation, Support, Dissolution, Annulment4. Child Custody: BIOC, etc5. Rights of unmarried cohabitants: contract, legitimacy, paternity (presumption, establishing)6. Parent/Child/State: emancipation, immunities, custody and control, neglect, parental fitness7. Adoption, etc: Jxn, placements, consent, surrogacy
259
Q

issues re Separation, Support, Dissolution, Annulment

A

A. Fault-based/no-fault divorce: grounds, defenses,annulment for void/voidable marriageB. SMJ over divorce and personal jxn over propertyC. Has court issued preliminary, interlocutory, or final order?D. Division of property: separate or marital, valuation,community property or equitable distribution stateE. Alimony/spousal maintenance: type (temporary, periodic, rehabilitative, reimbursement, lump sum)?F. Child support: duty to support til 18 (generally), consideration of income, number children, spec needsG. Modification of maintenance and child support: “substantial change in circumstances”H. Enforcement of awards: attach wages, seize and sell property, and revoke licenses, UIFSA across state linesI. Mediation or dispute resolution: by court referalJ. Separation agreements: must be mutually agreed to, fair, and voluntary, can merge into the divorce decree

260
Q

Child custody issues

A

A. Standard for custody: BIOCB. Visitation: factors (parental wishes, child preferences, parent misconduct, family relationships), conditions on visitationC. Joint custody: BIOC, parental agreement, manageabilityD. Enforcement: usually thru contempt proceedings, UCCJEA, and PKPAE. Procedural issues: jxn (child’s home state), child’s preference (if 12 years or older), counsel for child (appointment of guardian ad litem)F. Modification requests: substantial change in circumstances, parent relocation, third party seeking visitation

261
Q

Approach for Secured Transactions

A

1) Is there a secured transaction (creating a security interest in collateral)? If so, what is the collateral?2) Was a SI properly created in the collateral?3) Was the SI properly perfected?4) If there’s more than one SI, which takes priority?

262
Q

Checkpoints for Secured Transactions

A
  1. Applicability: UCC Art. 9 applies to SIs in personal prop, agricultural liens, sale of accounts receivable, chattel paper, negotiable instruments, promissory notes, payment intangibles, consignments, and certain lease purchase agreements2. Categorization of Collateral: goods (consumer, inventory, farm products, equipment), Tangible intangibles (instruments, bills of lading, chattel paper), Intangible intangibles (accounts), Investment property (securities accounts), Proceeds3. Attachment of SI: debtor has rights in collateral, SP gives value, security agreement (description, authentication, etc)4. Perfection: provides notice of SI, nec for priority5. Priority: unperfected (attachment), perfected (file or perfect, PMSI, BIOCOB), lien creditors6. Default: repossession (breach of the peace), foreclosure (notice, priority, etc), Judgment, redemption
263
Q

Perfection issues

A

Was the security interest perfected?1. Filing2. Possession3. Control4. Automatic (temporary or permanent?)Any special considerations for perfection?1. After-acquired property or a future advances clause2. Disposition of the collateral by the debtor (proceeds)3. PMSI4. Fixtures5. Accessions or commingled goods

264
Q

Secured Transactions essay tips

A

● Steps: (1) categorize collateral, (2) attachment, (3) perfection, (4) priority, (5) default.● If both PSs are unperfected, first to attach has priority.● PMSI in consumer goods are automatically perfected.● A security interest in a motor vehicle can only be perfected if the security interest is noted on the vehicles certificate of title.● A battle of priority between secured parties is commonly tested.

265
Q

Summary for discovery (4)

A

mandatory disclosure (initial disclosure, expert, pre trial), scope (relevance, work product, privilege, proportionality, experts), ways to get discovery (interrogatories, depositions), getting parties to comply

266
Q

Formation of a corporation requires

A

(1) people - incorporators(2) paper - articles of incorporation(3) act - delivery of notarized articles to Secretary of State

267
Q

An incorporator forms a corporation by

A

executing the articles and delivers them to the Secretary of State.

268
Q

An incorporator can be a person or an ________.

A

entity. Like another corporation.

269
Q

Articles of incorporation are a contract between the corporation and _________ and the corporation and the ___________.

A

shareholders; state.

270
Q

The information that the articles of incorporation are required to have is

A

(1) the corporate name, including one of the words corporation, company, incorporation, or limited(2) name and address of each incorporator(3) name and address of each INITIAL director(4) name of registered AGENT and registered OFFICE

271
Q

If there is no statement of duration in the articles of incorporation, then the corporation has a _________ duration.

A

perpetual.

272
Q

A corporation generally must have a statement of ___________.

A

purpose.

273
Q

A general purpose is okay and in some states a general purpose is even __________.

A

presumed and requires no statement at all. An example of a general purpose statement is “engage in all lawful activity after first obtaining necessary state agency approval.

274
Q

A corporation performing an activity outside its statement of purpose is called

A

ultra vires.

275
Q

At common law, any ultra vires contract could be _______, but today

A

voided; ultra vires contracts are valid.

276
Q

Shareholders can seek an ______ for ultra vires activity.

A

injunction.

277
Q

Managers responsible for ultra vires activity are _____ to the corporation for ___________.

A

liable; ultra vires losses.

278
Q

Authorized stock is

A

the maximum number of shares the corporation can sell.

279
Q

Issued stock is the

A

number of shares the corporation actually sells.

280
Q

Outstanding stock is the

A

shares that have been issued and not reacquired.

281
Q

With respect to stock, the articles must include

A

(1) authorized stock(2) number of shares per class(3) information on voting rights and preferences of each class

282
Q

When incorporators deliver notarized articles to the Secretary of State, pay fees, and the Sec. State ______ the articles for filing, this gives rise to a _________ corporation.

A

accepts; de jure.

283
Q

After forming the corporation, the board of directors holds an ________ meeting where it selects _______ and adopts __________________.

A

organizational; officers; bylaws and conducts any other appropriate business.

284
Q

The law of the state of incorporation governs the __________ of the corporation.

A

internal affairs.

285
Q

_-corps do not pay income tax at the corporate level.

A

S (as opposed to C-corps, which pay income tax on profits and shareholders are taxed on distributions: “double taxation”)

286
Q

To be an S-corp, a corporation must

A

(1) have no more than 100 shareholders(2) all of whom are human and U.S. Citizens or residents(3) and have only one class of stock that is NOT publicly traded

287
Q

Directors, officers, and shareholders ______ generally liable for the conduct of the corporation.

A

are not.

288
Q

A “de facto” corporation arises when

A

(1) there is a relevant incorporation statute (this is ALWAYS true)(2) the parties made a good faith, colorable attempt to comply with said statute(3) the parties make some exercise of corporate privileges (i.e. they act like they are a corporation)

289
Q

If the doctrine of “de facto” corporation applies, the entity is treated like a corporation for _______ except in an action ________.

A

all purposes; by the state.

290
Q

A corporation by estoppel exists if

A

you treat a business like a corporation then you may be estopped from denying that it is a corporation.**This goes both ways, i.e. you can’t get out of contracts you formed with an entity you treated as a corporation, nor can an improperly-formed corporation get out of liability by saying it was not properly formed.

291
Q

Corporation by estoppel only applies in ________ cases.

A

contract.

292
Q

De facto corporation and corporation by estoppel have been _______ in many states.

A

abolished. Throw that in the essay answer.

293
Q

Bylaws ______ required to form a corporation.

A

are not.

294
Q

By laws _______ filed with the state.

A

are not.

295
Q

The initial bylaws are adopted by the _________ at the _______ meeting.

A

board of directors; organizational (first meeting).

296
Q

_______ can amend or repeal the bylaws of a corporation.

A

Shareholders (and the BoD in some states).

297
Q

If bylaws conflict with the articles, the ______ control.

A

articles. The articles are a formal contract with the state, so we give them priority.

298
Q

A _____ is a person acting on behalf of a not-yet-formed corporation.

A

promoter.

299
Q

A corporation is liable on pre-incorporation contracts when it

A

adopts the contract (expressly or impliedly if the corporation accepts a benefit under the K). The promoter is still liable.

300
Q

A promoter is personally liable on pre-incorporation contracts until there has been

A

a novation (between the promoter, now-formed corporation, and the other party to the contract).

301
Q

A “foreign” corporation is any corporation formed

A

in another state.

302
Q

Foreign corporations that transact business in a state must

A

(1) qualify; and(2) pay prescribed fees.

303
Q

“Transacting business” means the _______ course of ______ business, it does not mean ___________.

A

regular; INTRAstate; occasional or sporadic activity or simply owning property there.

304
Q

A foreign corporation “qualifies” by getting a certificate of ______ from the Sec. State by providing its

A

(1) articles; and(2) proving good standing in its home state.

305
Q

If a foreign corporation transacts business without qualifying it

A

(1) faces a civil fine; and(2) cannot sue in the state (but it can be sued and defend)

306
Q

An “issuance” occurs when

A

a corporation sells its own stock.

307
Q

A “subscription” is a

A

written offer to buy stock from a corporation.

308
Q

Pre-incorporation subscriptions are _____ for ______ months unless ______.

A

irrevocable; six; the subscription says otherwise or all “subscribers” allow you to revoke.

309
Q

Post-incorporation subscriptions are _______ until ________.

A

revocable; accepted by the corporation (i.e. the BoD accepts the offer).

310
Q

Voting rights: The general rule is that the right to vote lies in the ______ shareholder as of the _____ date.

A

record; record.

311
Q

The record shareholder is the person shown as the ______ in the corporate _______.

A

owner; records.

312
Q

The record date is a voter eligibility _________.

A

cutoff.E.g. Meeting for August 7, record date of July 8. S sells B her stock on July 25. Who votes? S votes.

313
Q

The three exceptions to the general shareholder voting rule are

A

(1) corporation re-acquires stock before the record date(2) death of a shareholder(3) proxies

314
Q

If the corporation reacquires share of stock before the record date, then _____ votes the shares.

A

nobody (this is treasury stock).

315
Q

If a shareholder dies after the record date, ______ votes the shares.

A

S’s executor.

316
Q

A “proxy” is a _______ signed by the ______ shareholder to the _______ of the corporation authorizing __________.

A

writing (fax or email is okay); record; secretary; another to vote the shares.

317
Q

Proxies are valid for ______ months unless it says otherwise.

A

eleven.

318
Q

A proxy can be revoked by ________ or by __________.

A

a writing; attending and voting.

319
Q

A proxy ________ be revoked even if it says it is ________.

A

can always be; irrevocable.

320
Q

A proxy is only irrevocable if a proxy both says it is ________ and it is couple with ________.

A

irrevocable; an interest.E.g. S gives B an option and gives B a proxy to vote the shares.

321
Q

The requirements of voting trusts are

A

(1) written trust agreement, controlling how the shares will be voted(2) copy to the corporation(3) transfer legal title to the voting trustee(4) original shareholders device trust certificates and retain all shareholder rights except for voting

322
Q

The requirements for the voting or pooling agreement are

A

(1) shareholders can enter into voting agreements(2) signed writing(3) split of authority: are voting agreements enforceable?

323
Q

Shareholders vote either in a _________ or _______ written consent by holders of _____ voting shares.

A

meeting; unanimous; all.

324
Q

_____ meetings are required where ______ are elected.

A

Annual; directors.

325
Q

Special meetings can be called by

A

(1) the president(2) the board(3) the holders of at least 10 percent of the voting share(4) anyone else authorized in the bylaws

326
Q

Shareholders cannot call a meeting to remove _______.

A

officers. SHs can’t remove officers.

327
Q

_______ must be given to every shareholder entitled to vote between ____ and ____ days before the meeting

A

Written notice; 10; 60.

328
Q

A notice of a shareholder meeting is required to contain

A

(1) time and place of the meeting(2) the purpose of the meeting

329
Q

If proper notice is not given to all shareholders, then any action taken at the meeting is ____ unless those not sent notice __________.

A

void; waive the notice defect either expressly or impliedly (attend the meeting w/o objecting)

330
Q

Shareholders generally vote on these things

A

(1) elect directors(2) remove directors(3) fundamental corporate changes(4) anything else that the board asks for a SH vote on

331
Q

Every time shareholders vote, there must be a _____ represented at the meeting.

A

quorum.

332
Q

Determining a quorum at the shareholder meeting focuses on the number of _______ represented, not the number of ______ and generally requires a ______ of outstanding ________.

A

shares; shareholders; majority; shares.

333
Q

A shareholder quorum _____ be lost of people leave the meeting.

A

cannot (contrast a director’s quorum which CAN be lost).

334
Q

To elect a director, a ______ of the vote is required.

A

plurality.

335
Q

To remove a director, traditionally a ______ of the shares ________ is required.

A

majority; entitled to vote

336
Q

Cumulative voting arises when voting on ____________.

A

elections of directors.

337
Q

Under cumulative voting, the total number of votes is the number of ______ times the number of ________.

A

shares; directors to be elected.**This replaces three separate elections in which you’d only get the same number of votes, but with cumulative voting there is one big at large election and your multiplied votes can be spent on one person.

338
Q

Generally, in most states if the articles are silent, cumulative voting is

A

not allowed.

339
Q

Stock transfer restrictions are valid if they are

A

reasonable.

340
Q

Stock transfer restrictions are “reasonable” if they are

A

not an undue restrain on alienation.

341
Q

If a stock transfer restriction is valid, it can be enforced against the transferee (buyer) if

A

(1) the restriction is conspicuously noted on the stock certificate; or(2) the transferee had actual knowledge of the restriction

342
Q

_________ can demand access to inspect the books and records of the corporation on _________ notice.

A

Any shareholder; 5-days written.*Directors have unfettered access to records.**If corp refuses, SH can sue for a court order and if she wins get attorneys’ fees.

343
Q

In order to properly demand access to the corporate records, a shareholder must state a proper ______.

A

purpose related to the interest as a SH.

344
Q

A shareholder only has a right to a dividend or other distribution only when the _______ declares it.

A

board.**SH has to show abuse of discretion, super hard, like, the corp would have to make lots of money and board would have to pay themselves lots of bonuses.

345
Q

Dividend math:

A

(1) take total dividend amount(2) subtract the number of preferred shares times the $ preference and if the preferred shares are CUMULATIVE, then times number of years since dividend(3) divide remaining amount evenly across common stockE.g. $400k dividend, 100k common stock, 20k cumulative $2 preferred stock, no dividend in 4 years:

346
Q

An earned surplus is all _____ minus all _______ mins _______ previously paid.

A

earnings; losses; distributions.

347
Q

Stated capital _____ be used for distributions.

A

cannot.

348
Q

Stated capital arises when a corporation _____ stock and is the _____ value of the stock issuance if there is one.

A

issues; par. If no “par”, then the board allocates between par and capital surplus at its discretion.E.g. A 10k shares of $2 par stock for $50k, the stated capital is the par value of $20k, the capital surplus is the remaining $30k.

349
Q

Capital surplus ____ be used for distributions if _________.

A

can; the shareholders are informed.

350
Q

Under the modern view, a corporation cannot make a distribution if

A

(1) it is insolvent; or(2) the distribution would render the corporation insolvent.

351
Q

Insolvent means either:

A

(1) the corporation is unable to pay its debts as they come due; or(2) totally assets are less than total liabilities.

352
Q

Directors are jointly and severally liable for _____ distributions, but remember the directors’ ______.

A

improper; good faith defense.

353
Q

Shareholders are personally liable for improper distributions only if

A

they knew the distribution was improper when they received it.

354
Q

Under ______ liability, a creditor can sue the ______ of a merger or consolidation.

A

successor; survivor.

355
Q

A transfer of substantially all of the assets not in the ordinary course of business or share exchange ______ a fundamental corporate change for the _______ corporation only.

A

is; selling. Right of appraisal only for the selling company’s shareholders. No delivery of docs to Sec. State.**Rule of thumb is at least 75% of assets.

356
Q

There is no ______ liability for a transfer of substantially all assets because the ________ still exists

A

successor; selling company.**Exception if the buyer is a “mere continuation” of the seller.

357
Q

A shareholder can petition a court for involuntary dissolution of a corporation because of

A

(1) director abuse (waste, misconduct)(2) director deadlock that harms the corp(3) SHs have failed at consecutive annual meetings to fill a board vacancy.

358
Q

If a court does not grant dissolution, it can still order a _______ of the objecting shareholder, which is likely in a _______.

A

buyout; close corp.

359
Q

Dissolution of a corp starts the liquidation process which consists of

A

(1) gathering all assets(2) converting to cash(3) paying creditors(4) distributing remainder to SHs, pro-rata by share unless there is a liquidation preference**Must be stated in the articles, otherwise no preference exists.

360
Q

What forms of consideration may the corporation receive when it issues stock

A
  1. Money (cash or check)2. tangible of intangible property, and3. services already performed for the corporation (yes, even though that’s past consideration)*property and past services valued by BoD, which is conclusive as long as they acted in good faith
361
Q

These two forms of consideration for a stock purchase are permitted in some states but not allowed in others

A
  1. promissory notes2. future services*in states where banned, using these results in “unpaid stock” so it’s all treated as water
362
Q

C Corp is issuing 10,000 shares of $3 par stock. It must receive at least

A

$30,000.(can get more but not less than par value)

363
Q

If stock is “no par” the minimum issue price is set by the ____________

A

Board of Directors

364
Q

Treasury stock is stock that that the company issued and then

A

reacquired. It can then sell for whatever issuance price it wants

365
Q

C Corp issues 10,000 shares of $3 par to X for $22,000. The $8,000 gap is known as

A

water

366
Q

The corporation can recover “water” from

A

directors IF they knowingly authorized issuance, and the buyer (buyer has no defense; he is charged with notice for the par value).(note: Third parties aren’t liable if they didn’t know about the water)

367
Q

Pre-emptive right is the right of an existing SH of common stock to

A

maintain her ownership percentage by buying stock whenever there is a new issuance of stock FOR MONEY (cash or check)

368
Q

S owns 1,000 shares of C Corp. There are 5,000 shares outstanding. C Corp is planning to issue an additional 3,000 shares. If S has preemptive rights, S has the right to

A

buy 600 shares.

369
Q

If the articles are silent, do shareholders have preeemptive rights?

A

Split of authority.

370
Q

Initial directors are usually named in the articles, and successive Ds are elected by ________ at _________

A

shareholders at the annual meeting

371
Q

Shareholders can remove a director on the basis of

A

cause or no cause (unless staggered board, which can be removed only for cause)

372
Q

Typically, a vacant BoD position is selected by the _______, but if the SHs created the vacancy by removing a D, the replacement must be chosen by the _________

A

BoD or SHs; the SHs

373
Q

Board of Directors can only act in these two ways

A
  1. unanimous agreement in writing2. At a meeting (conference call counts)
374
Q

For the purpose of pre-emptive rights, an issuance of treasury stock (is/is not) a “new issuance”

A

Split of authority! Depends on the state.

375
Q

If the BoD act in any way other than unanimous agreement in writing or at a meeting, the act is

A

VOID unless ratified by a valid act.

376
Q

An individual director (is/is not) an agent of the corporation

A

is not

377
Q

Officers (are/are not) agents of the corporation

A

are

378
Q

Although regular meetings don’t require notice to be given, special meetings require

A

notice of the time and place. Failure to give notice VOIDS what happened at meeting, unless Ds not notified waive the notice defect.

379
Q

Directors (can/cannot) give proxies or enter voting agreements

A

cannot. Each owes non-delegable duties to the corporation

380
Q

If a quorum is present at a board meeting, passing a resolution requires this many votes

A

a majority vote of those present (also note that a quorum can be lost if people leave)

381
Q

The board can delegate to a committee of one or more directors, but a committee cannot

A
  1. Declare dividends2. Set D compensation3. Fill Board vacancy