Albany Law School developed the Legal Handbook for Early Stage Business to provide users with the resources and educational tools necessary to address legal issues that may arise during early stage business formation.  Particularly during start-up, when resources are scarce and there are many competing priorities for a business' limited time and capital, it is important to take steps that will minimize legal risk while maximizing the opportunity to increase operational credibility and encourage investment.  The Legal Handbook is designed to help with that, by providing guidance that will assist users in spotting legal issues early-on, knowing where to find resources, and becoming better consumers of legal services.

As part of the Government Law Center's work with the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) under a four-year, $250,000 incentive to create sustainable networks that support early-stage renewable and clean energy companies, the Center has created The Appendix to the Legal Handbook.  The Appendix is designed to provide industry-specific information and resources to assist entrepreneurs and start-ups in the alternative and clean energy technology sector.  This section addresses legal issues specifically related to development of large and small scale alternative energy projects in New York State, including the legal aspects of land use and zoning, building and energy codes, and equipment testing and certification related to regulatory compliance and interconnection.

You can view an excerpt of the Legal Handbook, which includes the Introduction and Table of Contents, or sign up to view or download the full document by using the buttons below. 

The Network of Legal Providers was created as a resource for locating and connecting with providers of legal services throughout New York State and includes information on cleantech law firms, incubators and other early stage business support providers. You can view the Network by using the button below.