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1992-12-29
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Version 7.57 - THE HOME AND BUSINESS LEGAL GUIDE
AND FORM GENERATOR MANUAL (December, 1992)
Portions Copyright 1991 Kraft, Byron & Clary
Copyright 1992 Kraft, Byron & Clary
All Rights Reserved
THIS PROGRAM IS A SHORTENED VERSION OF THE HOME AND BUSINESS
LEGAL GUIDE!!! We shortened it to make it a realistic length
upload/download. It is not crippled!! Our entire program is over
1.0 megs, compressed. The entire program (3 full disks of data)
is available on line through many BBS systems throughout the
United States (we personally upload all of it to over 200
bulletin boards, and thanks to many users this program, both in
the shortened version and the users of it, many hundreds more
have the program. The member boards of the Shareware Distribution
Network have all 3 disks, as well as this version. Virtually
every shareware distributor carries this program. As a last
resort if you can't find the full version, we provide the full
set to users at our cost of duplication/postage.
It is not our intent to withhold features or make you register in
the dark!
THIS PROGRAM IS DISTRIBUTED AS SHAREWARE.
ABOUT SHAREWARE
(The following is courtesy of Paul Mayer, although we have
added some comments; we don't claim copyright to Mr. Mayer's
writings)
Shareware distribution gives users a chance to try software
before buying it. If you try a Shareware program and continue
using it, you are expected to register. With registration, you
get anything from the simple right to continue using the software
to an updated program with printed manual.
[Our registered user receive the following; the registration fee
is $ 59.00:
a) complete version of the program with the user's name "branded"
on the disk;
b) a bonus disk, containing additional forms and information;
c) an audio cassette explaining how to use the program, which
also goes over "street proven" (but lawyer created!) legal self
defense;
d) access to updates and upgrades;
e) support via BBS
Page 1
f) a printed manual and branded disk together with support and a
private BBS membership.]
Copyright laws apply to both Shareware and commercial software,
and the copyright holder retains all rights, with a few specific
exceptions as stated below. Shareware authors are accomplished
programmers, just like commercial authors, and the programs are
of comparable quality. (In both cases, there are good programs
and bad ones!) The main difference is in the method of
distribution. The author specifically grants the right to copy
and distribute the software, either to all and sundry or to a
specific group. For example, some authors require written
permission before a commercial disk vendor may copy their
Shareware.
[Our policy allows persons or user groups to freely distribute
the shareware, evaluation version, of the program. Commercial
disk vendors must contact us first.]
Shareware is a distribution method, not a type of software. You
should find software that suits your needs and pocketbook,
whether it's commercial or Shareware. The Shareware systems makes
fitting your needs easier, because you can try before you buy.
And because the overhead is low, prices are low also. Shareware
has the ultimate money-back guarantee-- if you don't use the
product, you don't pay for it.
If you are not a registered user of this program, you may use
this version of the program for a reasonable time (30 days is
suggested). If at the end of a reasonable trial you continue to
use the program, or if you are using the program to prepare
documents or for advice, and continue to use it, you must
register. The registration fee is $ 59.00 (see complete details
in Section 4-4); this entitles you to:
1. The most current version of the program with full manual and
audio cassette on the program's use and legal self-defense
2. Any updates to the executable program for one year (subsequent
years are $ 20); all data updates to for one year
3. Access to bbs and special private sections for updates
4. Support: During the first 30 days of ownership, we provide up
to 2 hours of telephone support; support via mail and unlimited
BBS support through our private bbs; after 30 days you may
receive unlimited bbs and mail support, and a total of one
additional hour of telephone support
5. A discount of 200n other programs marketed by us except
for renewals.
You may register by phone at 1-904-877-7139 or by fax, at
904-656-6495. The document generator prepares a form which you
should use to make your order. Checks and money orders are
accepted.
Our primary support BBS is Webb Blackmon's BLUE RIDGE EXPRESS
Page 2
(B.R.E.) This 36 line super system is one of the best in the
nation!
After calling the BRE you should enter J FRINGE to access our
sub-board.
2400 baud 1-804-790-1675
9600 baud 1-804-790-9600 V32/bis
9600 baud 1-804-790-1126 V42/bis
We also have a single line system:
904-656-2263 (N,8,1-- 9600 baud, v32/v32 bis; v42/v42 bis), 24
hours daily; however, we recommend calling the BRE.
Mail:
R FRINGE SOFTWARE FULFILLMENT
P.O. Box 37155
Tallahassee, Florida 32315
DISTRIBUTION OF THE PROGRAM
This program is provided in different versions. HOWEVER THIS
PROGRAM IS NOT CRIPPLED IN ANY WAY. The version which you are now
using is the evaluation version, one that consists of EVERYTHING
to date in this program through December, 1992. This program
contains a shareware reminder. The registered program does not,
and also has the users' names "branded" on it.
You are encouraged to pass a copy of this program or to upload it
to your favorite BBS or to user groups or friends for evaluation.
Please encourage them to register their copy if they find that
they can use it. All registered users will receive the benefits
stated above.
PLEASE FEEL FREE TO SHARE THIS DISK OR TO UPLOAD THESE FILES. IN
EITHER CASE YOU MUST SHARE ALL OF THE FILES. PLEASE NOTE OUR
REQUEST THAT YOU DO NOT RENAME THIS ARCHIVE.
INTRODUCTION
A. PLEASE READ ALL FILES WITH EXTENSIONS OF ".TXT" that came with
your program ME FILE FOR MORE INFORMATION FOR IMPORTANT
INFORMATION AND ANY LAST MINUTE NEWS AND CHANGES. To print out
the manual please use the command:
<pguide>
SPECIAL NOTE: IN THIS MANUAL ITEMS TO BE ENTERED ON THE COMPUTER
ARE ENCLOSED IN ANGLED BRACKETS "< >". Follow the entry with the
ENTER key. Do not type the brackets as they are only placeholders
Page 3
for text to be entered by you.
B. ORGANIZATION OF MANUALS-- We provide two separate but
complimentary manuals. The first is the "quickstart" manual. If
you are a power user, this very brief manual explains each active
key and function. The second manual (the one that you are now
reading) is a detailed manual, consisting of 7 sections:
1) System Requirements/Installation
2) Use of the program
3) The information needed to generate legal forms
4) Customer Satisfaction- Support
5) About our staff
6) Legalese-- warranties, trademarks, warnings
7) Index
SECTION ONE
INSTALLATION
Section 1-1
INSTALLATION
To install the HOME AND BUSINESS LEGAL GUIDE AND FORMS GENERATOR,
(We'll call it Home Legal for short) first back up your
installation disks by using the MS DOS command DISKCOPY. For more
information about DISKCOPY, consult your computer's manual. Place
the master disks that you received in a safe place and use your
backup copies.
The full version of the program contains an installation program.
On this shortened version an install program isn't needed. Just
unarchive the program to a new subdirectory (we recommend that
you name it \KBGUIDE).
SYSTEMS REQUIREMENTS
In order to operate this program, your computer must:
1) have an IBM PC compatible operation a version of M.S. DOS,
D.R. DOS or P.C. DOS of 3.3 or higher or OS/2, PS/2; this program
happily runs under Windows environments/Multi tasking
environments and also runs in "MS DOS EMULATIONS" in Open Desk
Top and other UNIX systems that can run MS DOS programs.
To find out which version of dos you are using, please enter:
<ver>
and you will receive a cheery message such as
MS-DOS VER 3.30
in general this program will operate on XT compatibles, '286
compatibles (AT Class) and '386 compatible systems; 486 systems;
Page 4
2) have a hard drive (fixed disk);
3) have at least 448 K Bytes of USABLE memory with the first
640KB; many computer users have machines that are installed with
512K, 640K or more but install many Terminate and stay
resident (TSR or "memory resident" programs) which each use
memory, dropping available for usable memory to less than 448 K;
if you cannot operate this program dump out of it (the time
honored process pressing Control, Alternate and Delete at once to
"warm" reboot) and at a system prompt type, exactly
<chkdsk>
Your machine should whirl and click and then announce something
like this:
655360 bytes total memory
620000 bytes free
if you have less that 448000 bytes of memory free, then you must
read the manuals for your memory resident software and delete
some of them so that you have at least 448000 free when you run
this program. There are utilities that "manage" terminate and
stay resident program advertised in your favorite computer
magazine. If you would like an operating environment that manages
memory and can make your computer stand on its head allowing
multitasking among many other great things, check out the great
products from Quarterdeck.(tm)
IMPORTANT CAVEAT: Many computer users employ file management
shells like the Norton Commander(tm) or PC TOOLS (versions 6 and
higher) to help them manage their systems. These programs consume
memory when used. Often persons also load several Terminate and
stay resident utilities (T.S.R's) and a file manager. The likely
result is that you will be often reduced to less than 300k free
memory. This will S.. L.. O.. W.. down your system and cause
many programs not to load at all. Running the HOME LEGAL GUIDE
directly from DOS is simple and recommended!
We get calls now and then about the document generation program
not loading. In EVERY occasion that this occurs it is because you
have less than 448K FREE RAM. Really. Honestly. Let's assume that
you have a computer with 640K RAM. You can still be running with
less than 448K RAM free by loading numerous drivers, TSR's and
shells. Please check what your free memory is if you find that
the document generator will not load and drops you to DOS
following the instructions above. Please note that your system
can be configured with many megabytes of ram, but STILL HAVE LESS
THAN 448K free within the first 640KB! Unless you use memory
management software, you can have 10 megs of RAM, but have less
than 448KB free in the first 640KB.
There is no minimum requirement for graphics adapters or color.
Page 5
The program will happily run on a text-mono system; and it looks
very great on a VGA system! Due to our design philosophy the
program will run on a system with NO color and no graphics
capability at all.
A printer is recommended so that you can fully use the HOME LEGAL
GUIDE (You cannot print out legal documents without access to a
printer.)
SECTION 2
USE OF THE PROGRAM
STEP ONE (LOGICALLY) STARTING THE PROGRAM
Section 2-1 QUICK START MANUAL
A separate file on this disk contains a "quick start manual" for
experienced applications users which gives all of the active keys
for each program. A detailed manual follows.
Section 2-2 START UP AND MAIN MENU
In order to start the program, be sure that you have either have
the computer in the legal subdirectory or that the program is on
the current path. Now type:
<GUIDE>
(or <guide> or <guIDE> in MS-DOS, they are the same to the
computer.) and press the Return
<Return>
key. The main menu offers a help screen.
Section 2-3
MOUSE USERS
Your mouse driver must be loaded before attempting to use a mouse
on the program. For more information on loading your mouse
driver, please see the manual which came with your rodent. To
begin using the program, type
<Mguide>
then <Return>. Clicking the left button sends a carriage return,
the right button page down, both buttons, sends Escape. Moving
the rodent up and down advances the cursor up and down. NOTE: We
do not have a separate mouse cursor. The mouse is emulating the
cursor keys.
Section 2-4
SELECTING FROM THE OPTIONS PROVIDED
Page 6
To select your choice, either use the cursor keys (up and down
arrows) to highlight the choice you want, or, enter the letter
corresponding to your choice, and then press
<Return>.
We will explain the operation of the statutes, and tutorials
(mini-seminars), document preparation and editing documents
separately.
Section 2-5
THE SHELL GAME- OUR DOS "SHELL"
Choice "S"- DOS Shell-- Our DOS "shell" is a utility program
which allows you to perform tasks, while retaining the HOME LEGAL
GUIDE in memory. For example, if you want to format a floppy
disk, but do not want to exit the program, then choose the DOS
Shell option, by either highlighting this option using the cursor
keys (up and down arrows) or pressing
<S>
then press <RETURN>. You will then see a message indicating that
your operating system has been loaded. For example,
Microsoft (R) MS-DOS (R) Version 3.30
(C) Copyright Microsoft Corp. 1981-1986
you may then operate DOS commands. At all times, the Home Legal
Guide remains in memory. To resume use of the program, type
<EXIT> and then <Return> or <Enter> (On some machines the key is
marked return, on others enter, and some have a left descending
arrow.) This will return you to the opening screen.
Section 2-6
The Navigator
At the bottom of each screen the active keys are listed, and what
each key does. This "navigator" strip is your first resource for
help in getting around the program.
Section 2-7
STATUTES MENU
The HOME LEGAL GUIDE contains the full text, with attorney's
explanations of many important laws and governmental regulations.
To choose this option from the main menu, press
<B>
and then <ENTER> (Return), or highlight this option by using the
cursor keys- up and down arrows. Once you are reading the full
text, you will occasionally see blocks of text marked with "/*"
Page 7
and closed with "*/." These are distinguishing placeholders to
show comments as opposed to the full text of the law or
regulation. Copyright stuff: We do not claim copyright on
government material contained in the statutes menu. However we do
claim copyright on all the rest of the program and on the
comments within the statutes.
Here are topics
Automobile odometer federal law
Child Custody when multiple states involved- Federal Act
Copyright basics- official publication of copyright office
Durable Power of Attorney Act
Employment discrimination-- federal act
Fair Credit Reporting Act- Your Credit Bureau Report
Federal Regulations Concerning Advertising Warranties
Federal Regulations Concerning Endorsements in Ads
Federal Freedom of Information Act
Holder in due course rule- creditors responsibility for claims
FTC rules regarding consumer lending
Federal Regulations on Mailorder Sales
Employee Polygraph Protection Act (Lie Detector Test Law)
Uniform Landlord and Tenant Act
Limitations on suits against military personnel- Civil Relief Act
Plant Closing Act- Notification before layoffs
Premarital Agreements- Uniform Act
Uniform Limited Partnership Act
Uniform Partnership Act
The Taxpayer's Bill of Rights!
Uniform Commercial Code- Article 2 [Sales]
United States Constitution [Plain]
Employer's Obligations under Minimum Wage Law Employee's Guide to
Minimum Wage Law U.S. Supreme Court case on living wills (Nancy
Cruzan)
U.S. Supreme Court case regarding political patronage
Unfair insurance trade practices, sample act
Section 2-8 BROWSING THROUGH THE STATUTES
You may read the statutes by pressing the page up, page down,
cursor keys for up and down (up and down arrows.) The left and
right cursor keys are special. The left arrow key returns you to
the previous comment; the right arrow searches for the next
comment.
If you press the left arrow key and the text does not change,
this means that you are seeing the first comment; if you press
the right arrow key and the text does not change you are then
viewing the last comment in the file.
Section 2-9 LET'S TAKE NOTES
USE OF THE "NOTE PAD"- JOT NOTES WHILE LEARNING ABOUT THE LAW
If you want to take a note while reading the tutorial, put our
Page 8
memory resident note pad to work. From any point once you are
reading the text of the tutorial type
<F2> (Function key 2)
and then a note pad will open on the bottom of the screen. This
is a nice feature so that you won't lose your place or have to go
get a pad and paper if you find something interesting that you
might want to take notes about. Since it is for jotting notes, we
have made it very simple to use. Simply type in your note, using
the backspace key to erase characters.
NOTE PAD HELP
To get help regarding the note pad utility, simply press
<F1>, (function key one)
while the note pad is open. The help screen contains a full
explanation of the note pad's use.
PRINTING OUT YOUR NOTES
To print out our notes, make sure that your printer is ready,
power on, properly connected, with paper and ribbons, and then
press
<F3> (Function key 3)
ERASING AND SAVING NOTES
<F10> (Function key 10)
erases everything on the note pad. You cannot recover notes once
erased by using F10. To "toggle" back and forth between the note
pad and the text of the tutorial, press
<F2> (Function key 2)
Your notes are saved automatically every time that you toggle
back and forth between the note pad and the tutorial's main text.
Section 2-10 SPECIAL STATUTE- DEFINITIONS
This program contains a special "statute"- the on line legal
phrase dictionary. Select this option to look up unfamiliar legal
terms. Please let us know if you find other words we should
define.
Section 2- 11 EXITING THE STATUTES
To leave a statute, you may press
Escape <ESC>
Page 9
which will return you to the statutes menu. To return to the main
menu, press
<M>
To exit the program completely, press
<X>
which will send you back to DOS and quit the program.
Section 2-12 TUTORIAL (MINI-SEMINAR) MENU
WHAT IS A TUTORIAL/ MINI-SEMINAR?
The HOME LEGAL GUIDE mini-seminars called "tutorials" about the
subjects that our research and your requests show are of the most
interest to our users. To select this option, either highlight
option C from the main menu, or, enter the letter
<C>
Then press <ENTER> (Return.)
These "tutorials" or "mini-seminars" are a discussion of the
rights and obligations that the law provides for each tutorial
area. LET US KNOW ABOUT OTHER AREAS OF INTEREST AND WE'LL PREPARE
SOMETHING ON THAT AREA IN THE FUTURE. You're the boss. Here is a
list of tutorials contained in the program:
The Attorney Generals for the 50 states
Liability of automobile owners for third parties use
Community property states
Contracts that must be in writing (Statute of frauds)
Divorce- residency requirements and reasons for all states
Educational Records Privacy rights (Buckley Amendment)
Enforcement of divorce/child support arrearages across state
lines
Federal Deposit Insurance Commission (FDIC) rules
Basics of federal estate tax law and planning to lessen it
Freedom of Information Rights under federal law
Some advice on finding a good attorney
Liability of parents for children's wrongful acts
Tutorial on FTC regulations for the mailorder trade
Marriage- minimum ages, common law marriage, adulthood
Maximum rates of interest (usury)
Medicare basics
Basic information on patents
"How to avoid probate"
Quick word on real estate closings and title insurance
Right to work without joining union
Secured loans-- filing requirements
Social Security Basics- Part One
State taxes on income, sales, real estate transactions
Page 10
State trademark/tradename rules
Stock fraud---- BEWARE!!!!!!!!
Statute of limitations for the fifty states Basic information on
trademarks
Alaska Living Will Summary
Alabama Living Will Summary
Arkansas Living Will Summary
California Living Will Summary
Connecticut Living Will Summary
Colorado Living Will Summary
District of Columbia Living Will Summary
Delaware Living Will Summary
Florida Living Will Summary
Georgia Living Will Summary
Hawaii Living Will Summary
Idaho Living Will Summary
Illinois Living Will Summary
Indiana Living Will Summary
Kansas Living Will Summary
Missouri Living Will Summary
Mississippi Living Will Summary
Montana Living Will Summary
North Carolina Living Will Summary
New Hampshire Living Will Summary
Nevada Living Will Summary
Oregon Living Will Summary
South Carolina Living Will Summary
Tennessee Living Will Summary
Texas Living Will Summary
Utah Living Will Summary
Virginia Living Will Summary
Washington Living Will Summary
Wisconsin Living Will Summary
West Virginia Living Will Summary
Wyoming Living Will Summary Reverse Living Will Summary (Living
Won't)
Section 2-13 SELECTING A TUTORIAL/MINI-SEMINAR
Once you have determined which tutorial you might want to read or
review, please highlight it by using the cursor keys (up and down
arrows). Then press <Return>. You will then be able to see the
text of a tutorial.
You can read through the tutorial by using the cursor keys, page
down, page up or the home or end keys. (Note that our clever
programming methods- Good job Warren-- make going from one end to
another virtually instantaneous.)
Section 2-14 TAKING NOTES
You may take notes as discussed in Section 2-9.
Section 2-15 READING FULL TEXT OF LAWS OR REGULATIONS DISCUSSED-
Page 11
OPENING A SECOND WINDOW
Let's get back to the tutorial. If you would like to read and
review the full text of the laws discussed in a tutorial or
mini-seminar, you can review this simultaneously with the
tutorial by opening a second "window." To do so, press the letter
<S>
and you will be able to select to view the on line dictionary or
view a help screen for tutorials. In addition, many tutorials
also have further explanatory material.
To select which option you desire, use the cursor keys (up and
down arrow) to highlight the item you want to view. Then press
return. The selected item (the on line dictionary, help or other
materials) will then appear on the screen; to toggle back and
forth between the mini-seminar and the selected full annotated
text, press
<O>
You can still open a note pad if you have both the mini-
seminar and the full text selected. Many mini-seminars have more
than one full text selection. If you want to review a different
full annotated text from that originally selected, return to the
tutorial, and press
<S>
which will reopen the full annotated text menu. Select the new
full text by using the cursor (up and down arrow keys).
Section 2-16 DEFINITIONS OF LEGAL TERMS
If legal terms are used in the mini-seminar, they are also
defined in the on line legal dictionary. Simply press
<S>
and select this option for the on line legal phrase book- our
mini legal dictionary. Press
<O>
to toggle back and forth between the dictionary and the text. To
select help or full text, return to the tutorial text, press
<S>
and select the other full text.
Page 12
Section 2-17 EXITING THE TUTORIAL
To stop reading, press Escape
(ESC)
to return to the tutorial menu,
<M>
to return to the main menu, or
<X>
to exit (quit) the program and to return to DOS. That was
easy-wasn't it!
Section 2-18 DRAFTING DOCUMENTS
THE DOCUMENT GENERATOR
We are very proud of our document generation program and hope
that you will be as well. Through the use of this part of the
program you will be able to draft custom legal papers that are
legal and binding in all 50 states. These forms will accomplish
their objectives of course, if you use a form that isn't right,
or doesn't completely accomplish your goal, you'll have a legal
and valid form that accomplishes something other than you
desired.
READ CAREFULLY
************************************************************
IT IS ESSENTIAL TO HAVE AN ATTORNEY REVIEW DOCUMENTS THAT YOU
PREPARE FROM TIME TO TIME; THE DOCUMENTS HEREIN ARE VALID IN THAT
IF THEY ARE PROPERLY PREPARED THEY WILL BE EFFECTIVE TO CAUSE THE
INTENDED RESULT. THIS MEANS HOWEVER, THAT A USE OF THE FORMS FOR
AN INAPPROPRIATE PURPOSE WILL RESULT IN AN INAPPROPRIATE RESULT.
WE IMPLORE YOU TO SEEK LEGAL COUNSEL IF THE FAILURE OF A LEGAL
FORM TO ACCOMPLISH THE INTENDED PURPOSE WILL BE FINANCIAL LOSS.
UNDER THE DISCLAIMERS OF WARRANTIES HEREIN, DAMAGES MAY NOT BE
RECOVERED FOR THE MONETARY LOSSES AND OTHER DAMAGES, INCLUDING
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES SHOULD A FORM NOT MEET YOUR NEEDS. YOU'LL
STILL SAVE TIME AND MONEY BY USING THE FORMS- JUST HAVE THEM
REVIEWED. IN ADDITION BE SURE TO GET THE LATEST FORMS BY CHECKING
IN FOR UPDATES.
************************************************************
In order to begin using the forms generator, from the main menu,
please select option "D", prepare legal documents, by either
entering
Page 13
<D>
and then <Return> or using the cursor keys (up and down arrows)
to select this option.
NOTE THAT THERE IS MORE THAN ONE SCREEN OF CHOICES, either scroll
to the end, or use "Page Down" (you may have to do this more than
once) to see all selections.
The document menu lists the many available choices. Use the up
and down arrows to highlight the document which you want to
select.
************************************************************
LAWS CHANGE AND THIS MAY FORCE A CHANGE IN FORMS TO MAKE THEM
COMPLY WITH LEGAL REQUIREMENTS. PLEASE BE SURE TO CHECK FOR
UPDATES. WHAT YOU HAVE RECEIVED CONTAINS THE FORMS TO THE DATE OF
SHIPPING AND IS SUPPLEMENTED AND UPDATED REGULARLY.
************************************************************
Once "inside" a document you will have the opportunity to enter
information, and "custom build" your form.
SECTION 2-19 BUILDING DOCUMENTS: SCREENS
You will then see two types of form building screens- a multiple
choice box and a fill in the blank box.
SECTION 2-20 FILL IN THE BLANK SCREENS
First the fill in the blank box:
Enter, exactly as you wish to see it, the information requested.
Be careful to put it in the format requested- if the fill in the
blank box asks for the information in numerals, use numerals. If
it asks for information in numbers, enter numbers. Once you have
finished filling in the blanks, then hit return. You can "edit" a
line prior to entering "return" by using the backspace key. If
you have made a horrible goof and want to start from scratch, use
the tab forward key to highlight the "cancel" choice on the
bottom of the dialogue box, and press return. The document will
then be canceled. You will be returned to the document
preparation main menu. A second option is to leave the document
with the error and fix it with the on-line word processor.
On occasions the space which is provided for entry of data is too
small. In that case, simply enter in the fill in the blank box
"See exhibit 1 (etc.)" and use a separate sheet to continue. Or
you can fill in the document and then use the built-in word
processor to put in the rest of the information.
SECTION 2-21 MULTIPLE CHOICE SCREENS
Page 14
You will also see multiple choice boxes. Use the up arrow and
down arrow (cursor keys) to place the "bullet" in the choice that
you would like, and press <Return>.
SECTION 2-22 NUMERICAL AMOUNTS
When amounts of money need to be input, enter them in the
following form:
213.45 or 22000.00
commas and dollar signs are not required and should not be used.
The program will prompt for numerical amounts and then will
transliterate them into their numerical equivalents. Thus, if you
enter 100, the program will show it as $ 100.00 (One hundred
dollars and xx/100) automatically!
SECTION 2-23 SUGGESTED INPUTS
Many screens contain suggested inputs. For example, the "number
of days between installments" on the installment promissory note
has several choices. The final choice "KEY IN VALUE" allows you
to put whichever choice you desire in the form if the suggestions
don't fit your needs. To enter your own value, place the bullet
in the key in value choice and then press ENTER. Then type in
your choice.
SECTION 2-22 FINISHING DOCUMENTS- NAMING DOCUMENTS
Once you've finished preparing a document, press
<S>
(for save) and then fill in the name of the document. Ms-dos
limits you to eight characters and an extension on a file, for
example- "guide.exe." We don't-- your document can be named
meaningfully using up to 72 characters, including blanks-- Thus,
a note from Joe to Fred for $ 1.00 done on
12/1/92 can be named:
Note from Joe to Fred- value $ 1.00 dated 12/1/92
Use a completely descriptive name so you will know exactly what
the document is.
SECTION 2-23 PRINTING DOCUMENTS
To print out a document, after completing your answers, and
seeing the document, press <P>, and a dialogue box will ask you
use the cursor key to say "yes" or "no." Before saying yes be
sure that the printer is connected to the computer, turned on,
has ribbons and paper. (Or if it is a laser printer, that it has
Page 15
toner and paper!) You may use a printer of your choice from daisy
wheel, a dot matrix to a laser.
IF YOU ARE USING A LASER PRINTER BE SURE TO CLEAR OUT ANY CODES
THAT YOU MIGHT HAVE SET FOR GRAPHICS OR LANDSCAPE PRINTING. THE
PRINT OUTPUT IS ORDINARY "ASCII."
The specific forms and the information required to complete them
are discussed in section 3.
SECTION 2-24 REVIEWING DOCUMENTS
To print out a document which you previously saved, go to the
main menu and either use the cursor key or enter the letter
<E>
and then press <Return>. The documents, with titles that you have
chosen will appear on screen. To see one, highlight that document
and press <Return.> To print, press
<P>
check that you are ready and then print away. To delete a
document, first select the document, and press enter so that you
are viewing that document. To delete hold down the <Alt> key and
while holding the ALT key down, press <D> (for delete.) This will
permanently erase a document, and in most cases even an undelete
program will not save you! Be sure that you intend to do so
before zapping a document to never-never land!
SECTION 2-25
EDITING DOCUMENTS
Once you have prepared a document, you may change it with the
built in text editor.
The text editor contains a complete help screen. Just hit
<F1>
for complete help.
NOTE: THE MOUSE IS DISABLED DURING USE OF OUR EDITOR.
SECTION 3
FORMS- INFORMATION REQUIRED
SECTION 3-1 FORMS IN GENERAL
In this section of the manual, we'll explain what information
is needed to prepare each form, and will outline for what
Page 16
purposes the form is useful.
THE HOME LEGAL GUIDE provides a large library of forms for your
use. Before you draft any form, please read and consider the
directions on each form.
Our directions tell you what information that you'll need to
complete each form, what you should have read in the package
before beginning.
SECTION 3-2 GENERAL FORMS
We begin with general forms. Again- we welcome your suggestions
for future forms! Let us know.
Here is the complete list of forms:
(Note: We add more forms on a regular basis. These are given to
registered users on bonus disks. Recent topics for bonuses have
included Federal Living Will Laws and investment related forms)
Acceptance of goods
Advertising purchase order
Assignment of promissory note- recourse/non-recourse
Assignment of contract rights
Automobile-- offer to purchase
Automobile sale-- odometer statement (federal law)
Bankruptcy proof of claim
Bailment (Agreement to lend or borrow personal property)
Bailment-- acceptance of liability, automobile
Bank loan agreement sample
Bill of sale for used goods (consumer)
Collection agency agreement
Commercial Equipment Lease
Consignment Sales Agreement
Consignment Sales Agreement, Automobile
Corporate resolution to borrow from bank
Corporate resolution to open banking relationship
Corporate meeting minutes, small corporation, annual meeting
Corporate meeting minutes, small corporation, officer changes
Corporate meeting, minutes of board of directors
Corporate meeting, waiver of notice (shareholders/directors)
Corporate shares-- proxy to vote shares
Corporation-- demand by shareholders for meeting
Corporation-- notice of meeting
Credit application, authorization for release of information
Designation of preference for guardian for minors
Distributorship agreement
Employment agreement, technical/managerial employee
Employment-- temporary lending of employee
Employment application- release of information
Escrow Agreement (General)
Factoring of accounts receivables agreement
Page 17
General Partnership- Simple, Short form (under $ 30,000 in
capital)
General Partnership, general form
General partnership, winding up agreement
Guarantees- limited, unlimited
Guarantee agreement, alternate form
Hunting/Fishing/Sportsman's License
Independent contracting agreement
Insurance claim form- automobile collision
Insurance claim form- building/personal property
Insurance Subrogation agreement/assignment
Internal Revenue Service Power of Attorney
Lottery pooling agreement
Merchants firm offer
Mutual release of all claims
Non-competition agreement
Non-disclosure (secrecy) agreement, unilateral
Non-disclosure (secrecy) agreement, bilateral
Non marriage "living together" agreement
Notice to co-signor of debt
Option to purchase business
Patent Assignment
Patent License
Permission for child to go on trip
Pledge of life insurance policy to secure debt
Pledge of stock for debt
Pre-divorce agreement
Premarital agreement
Purchase order
Release of mechanic's lien
Repair order, automobile
Repair order, warranty
Retail store- lease of department
Retainer letter with accountant, overall fee limit
Retainer agreement with attorney, contingent fee
Retainer agreement with attorney, flat fee
Retainer agreement with attorney, hourly fee
Revocation of acceptance of goods
Right of rescission
Security Agreement- Regular/Hypothecation
Shareholder's agreement
Statement of Account Request, Secured Loans
Stock Option for employees (not tax sheltered)
Stock Option (general and not for employees)
Stock purchase agreement, unregistered stock
Stock subscription agreement
Stop Payment Order on Check
Transfer and Receipt- Uniform Transfers to Minors
Unilateral Release of all claims
Unsecured Promissory Note- Demand, Installment, Lump Sum
Unsecured Promissory Note- Limited to profits of business
Vending machine agreement
POWER OF ATTORNEY FORMS:
Simple Power of Attorney
Page 18
Durable Power of Attorney
Power of attorney for health care
Internal Revenue Service Power of Attorney
Power of attorney temporary custody of children
Power of attorney for health care
Revocation of Power of Attorney
Certification that Power of Attorney remains in effect
LIMITED PARTNERSHIP FORMS:
Limited partnership basic form
Additional term, escrow agent, Limited Partnership
Additional term, capital contributions, Limited Partnership
Additional term, reserves, Limited Partnership
Additional term, designation of tax matters partner
Additional term, devotion of time, Limited Partnership
Additional term, indemnity, Limited Partnership
Additional term, limited opportunity, Limited Partnership
Additional term, conflicts, Limited Partnership
Additional term, power of attorney, Limited Partnership
WILL FORMS:
Simple will-- All to spouse
Simple will-- All to children in equal shares
Simple will-- All to stated individuals in equal shares
Simple will-- All to charity
Revocation of all previous wills
LIVING TRUST FORMS:
Living trust, simple form
Revocation of trust
REAL ESTATE FORMS:
Bid Bond- Contracting
Brokerage listing: Exchange
Brokerage listing: Exclusive (regular sale)
Commercial Property Lease
Commercial lease, entire building
Commercial property lease, net lease
Commercial property lease, triple net lease
Estoppel letter
Loan commitment
Mortgage brokerage agreement (non-regulated states)
Non-recourse promissory note
Notice to quit or pay rent
Offer to purchase real estate
Real Estate Option to purchase agreement
Satisfaction of mortgage/deed of trust
CONTRACTING/REMODELING FORMS:
Contracting agreement, small job
Contracting agreement, larger job
Change order
Draw request
Lien release
Mechanic's lien waiver
BULK SALE FORMS:
Bulk Sale Affidavit
Bulk Sale Notice
Contract for bulk sale
Page 19
DEED FORMS, STATE APPROVED:
Alaska Warranty Deed
Alaska Quit-Claim Deed
Connecticut Warranty Deed
Delaware Warranty Deed
Massachusetts Warranty Deed
Michigan Warranty Deed
Montana Warranty Deed
New Hampshire Warranty Deed
New Hampshire Quit Claim Deed Oklahoma Warranty Deed
Oregon Warranty Deed
Rhode Island Warranty Deed
South Carolina Warranty Deed
South Dakota Warranty Deed
South Dakota Certificate of Value
South Dakota Quit Claim Deed
Texas Warranty Deed
Utah Warranty Deed
Utah Quit Claim Deed
Washington Warranty Deed
Washington Quit Claim Deed
Wisconsin Warranty Deed
Wisconsin Quit Claim Deed
LIVING WILL FORMS:
Alaska Living Will Form
Alabama Living Will Form
Arizona Living Will Form
California Living Will Form
Colorado Living Will Form
Connecticut Living Will Form
District of Columbia Living Will Form
Florida Living Will Form
Georgia Living Will Form
Hawaii Living Will Form
Idaho Living Will Form
Illinois Living Will Form
Indiana Living Will Form
Iowa Living Will Form
Kansas Living Will Form
Louisiana Living Will Form
Maine Living Will Form
Maryland Living Will Form
Mississippi Living Will Form
Missouri Living Will Form
Montana Living Will Form
Nevada Living Will Form
New Hampshire Living Will Form
New Mexico Living Will Form
North Carolina Living Will Form
Oklahoma Living Will Form
South Carolina Living Will Form
Tennessee Living Will Form
Texas Living Will Form
Uniform Living Will Form
Page 20
Virginia Living Will Form
Washington Living Will Form
West Virginia Living Will Form
Wyoming Living Will Form
Living Won't (Reverse Living Will)
Revocation of living will
Below, we describe the forms included in this sampler program.
The full program, of course, contains complete information on all
of the forms.
SECTION 3-7 BILL OF SALE FOR USED GOODS
This form is used to as a combination receipt and bill of sale.
It is intended solely for a deal in which a CONSUMER sells
something that they own to another person. This form was prepared
because small claims courts are populated with cases in which
someone who has bought a used boat motor, or whatever, sues the
seller claiming that the product failed to work, etc. However,
the law in most states is that there IS NO WARRANTY when a person
who is not a dealer in that type of goods sells them.
Information needed:
Name of the seller; name of the buyer; description of the goods
sold- here be sure to call it a "used" whatever;
The form provides the following choices as to the payment of the
sales price: cash, or part cash and assumption of liens. For
example, if there is a lien on a stereo you are selling, then the
sales price is for cash of whatever and the buyer agreeing to pay
the lien. In this case have the name of the lien holder and the
amount of the liens handy.
If you are financing a purchase of something don't use this form.
Instead, use the security agreement form.
SECTION 3-23 GUARANTEE FORMS
A guarantee is an agreement by one party to pay the debt, or to
take care of the obligations of another party. This is frequently
used with corporations. Most corporations are very thinly
capitalized, and thus for obligations of any size, savvy
creditors demand that the owners guarantee the debt.
Under a law known as the Statute of Frauds, the promise to pay
the debt of another must be in WRITING TO be valid. REMEMBER
THIS!!
Therefore, we have a personal guarantee. This document actually
produces THREE different kinds of guarantees. The first is an
unconditional, blanket guarantee. This means that the guarantor
(person agreeing to make good another's obligations) agrees that
whatever debts and obligations are due from the primary debt, in
Page 21
whatever amount will be their responsibility. This is the most
dangerous kind of guarantee to sign for the guarantor, but the
most favorable to the creditor.
The second is a guarantee agreement for a specific obligation. In
other words, in this agreement the guarantor is agreeing to pay
whatever comes out of one specific deal.
The third is a guarantee that covers all obligations, but, is
limited to a total specified sum. Thus, the guarantor agrees to
pay a certain sum, if the balance is that or lower and the
primary debtor doesn't pay.
The following information is needed to complete the form; of
course, you must choose which one of the guarantees represents
your agreement.
The name of the party borrowing, guaranteeing and lending
The amount, or debt guaranteed (unless unconditional this is an
unconditional guarantee)
SECTION 3-42 SECURITY AGREEMENT
This form is called many different things by different folks.
Some refer to it as a "conditional sale" in which the condition
is you get to keep the property if you pay a debt that you agreed
to pay to acquire the property. Sometimes it is called a "Chattel
Mortgage"; in some cases it is known as "Lease." All of these
instruments are really security agreements. In simple words a
security agreement is a LIEN on property.
LIMITATIONS: Security agreements are used for tangible assets,
contract rights and intangibles. They are NOT appropriate for
securities, cash or real estate. With securities a pledge and
physical possession of the securities is appropriate. With cash,
physical possession is required and with real estate mortgages
are required (trust deeds in some states.) SPECIAL WARNING:
Unless you have physical possession of the collateral certain
filings are required to perfect the lien. If you don't file, your
lien will be invalid against other creditors.
This selection on the menu prepares three different types of
security agreements. The first is a standard security agreement
in which a party puts up his property for a loan or for a
purchase. In this form, the debtor agrees to make good any
deficiency (that is if the property is repossessed and does not
bring enough in to pay off the debt, they're on the hook for the
difference.) There are some further variations: whether the
security is provided for a single debt or for all debts (this
latter set is called a cross collateralization clause.)
In addition, this selection on the menu can produce a
hypothecation. (See on line dictionary for explanation).
Page 22
The following information is required:
names of each party; a specific explanation of the property
secured, either general or specific-- thus you can have a lien on
a specific fork-lift, or on the accounts receivable of a
business;
if the security agreement secures a specific debt, the date of
the debt and the original principal amount;
if the security agreement is a hypothecation, then the person for
whom the debt is secured must be identified, together with that
debt-- the date of the debt and the original amount;
in all security agreements-- are there other liens on the
property? (first lien vs. junior lien) and if so, the amount of
the liens and the identify of the creditor;
will this security agreement secure all other debts between the
parties?
SECTION 3-57 OFFER TO PURCHASE REAL ESTATE
This is a very complicated form. Anyone who has been in the real
estate business for any period of time will recommend that all
parties in real estate deals, whatever size, have legal counsel.
So do we.
The real estate offer form is used by a buyer (and real estate
agent) to make an offer to an owner. Here we go with the needed
information:
Seller's name, address; gross purchase price; legal description
of the property; expiration date of the offer.
Will the purchase price be paid: in cash, with terms;
If mortgages are to be assumed: the amounts and mortgage holders;
If the seller is to grant a new mortgage as part of the purchase
price: the principal amount, rate of interest and payment terms;
If the buyer will need to obtain a new mortgage, the amounts, the
term of the mortgage in months, the maximum allowable rate of
interest on the new mortgage, the maximum number of points to be
paid by the buyer, the maximum application fee to be paid by the
buyer;
If there are buildings on the property;
The number of days between acceptance and closing (minimum and
maximum), number of days to provide title insurance by the owner;
Page 23
Closing costs to be paid by each party;
if the parties used a realtor, the name of the realtor.
This form conforms to practice in most of the east coast of the
United States.
REAL ESTATE BROKERAGE EXCLUSIVE LISTING
This form is for the EXCLUSIVE listing of real estate with a
brokerage.
Information required:
The name of the owner of the property; the broker; the legal
description of the property; the number of days of the listing;
the minimum sales price; the financing that the owner will
provide; the amount of the commission; the right of the broker to
place a sign on the property
3-58 LIVING WILL FORMS:
Before preparing these forms, be sure to review that state's
Living Will Summary from the tutorials menu. If the state isn't
listed then review the "generic tutorial." NOTE: The failure to
list a state means that it does not as yet have a living will
law, and does not indicate an omission.
SECTION 4
CUSTOMER SATISFACTION
Section 4-1: SUPPORT
After registration of this program, you are entitled to support
through a private bulletin board, the Blue Ridge Express and
voice. We also are on CompuServe, EXEC PC and GENIE and visit
regularly. On CompuServe, please address mail to 76177,1421; on
GENIE please address mail to H.KRAFT1 and on EXEC-PC, please
address mail to Herb Kraft. Our BBS is open 24 hours daily at
904-656-2263 (9600 baud V32/V32 bis;V42/V42 bis) use standard BBS
settings, N,8,1.
The numbers at the Blue Ridge Express are listed above.
R FRINGE SOFTWARE
P.O. Box 37155
Tallahassee, Florida 32315
Our telephone number is 1-904-877-7139 and is answered 24 hours
daily.
Section 4-2 Philosophy
Page 24
We try to place customer service first! Let us prove it to you!
Many forms, tutorials, etc. were suggested by our users! Let's
hear from you!
SECTION 4-3 WORDS ABOUT SHAREWARE
This program is shareware. IT IS NOT FREE SOFTWARE. The Home
Legal Guide has been authored by a group which has over 20
programs sold commercially. Our best seller in the commercial
field, THE PC ATTORNEY (which is similar to this program, but
just generates documents) is selling multiple thousands per week.
It's in every major computer chain, and is featured in several
computer software store's Christmas catalogs. We started as a
commercial only company, and then went to shareware as an
additional marketing technique. Basically, shareware is
commercial software marketed on trust. Just like there is good
and bad commercial software, there is good and bad shareware. At
least with shareware, you get a full test drive before you spend.
Any fee you paid to a disk vendor was for the disks, and the
catalog, support etc.
Unlike many companies who have withdrawn from shareware when they
got successful, I (Herb Kraft, Chief Developer) made a public
statement that we were staying in shareware despite huge success
in the commercial field. We will keep this promise. This program
is uncrippled, and on par with our best "commercial" output!
SECTION 4-3
If you register the fee is $ 59.00 U.S. Dollars. Please note that
we have not raised our price despite the fact that we are now
including bonus disks and an audio cassette. There is no shipping
or handling charge within the US. Outside the U.S. please add $
6.00. Registrations may be mailed to:
R FRINGE SOFTWARE
P.O. Box 37155
Tallahassee, Florida 32315
When you register:
we will provide a free subscription to a special areas on our BBS
system; we will provide reasonable support via phone (no charge
other than the call); we will provide updates and free upgrades--
the upgrades and updates are posted on the BBS when done WE MAIL
out to those without modems on a semi-annual basis; additional
years are $ 20.00.
Registered users receive the program and a special key that
removes the registration reminder screens and "brands" your name
on screen.
After a reasonable trial, registration is mandatory. We do not
Page 25
state a specific number of days or use other arbitrary measures.
However, if you are preparing forms for your own use and keeping
them, then you really are using the program and should register.
SECTION 5
WHO WE ARE
It takes many persons to put together a project of this
magnitude. The staff that prepared this program consist of:
Herbert Kraft (Herb), Attorney at law admitted to practice in
Florida; Developer and author of legal material, comments and
documents, Chief Developer (It's all my fault-- honest)
David Byron, Co-Developer;
Warren Clary, P.E., Software engineer and co-developer, Warren is
the author of the computer program itself (and did a tremendous
job!)
Wyatt Cox; who assists with research and support;
Amy Seeberger; research and support; and,
Scott Briscoe, chief of customer support and fulfillment.
SECTION 6
LEGALESE
Section 6-1 LIMITATION OF WARRANTY
***EXCEPT FOR THE CUSTOMER SERVICE POLICY THERE ARE NO WARRANTIES
EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, AND THE SELLERS AND MANUFACTURER SHALL NOT BE
LIABLE FOR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES. THE SOLE REMEDY SHALL BE
LIMITED TO THE REFUND OF PURCHASE PRICE. THE FORMS HEREIN ARE NOT
INTENDED TO BE USED UNLESS THE SAME ARE REVIEWED BY AN ADVISOR OR
ATTORNEY, AND THE SELLERS AND MANUFACTURERS OF THIS PROGRAM SHALL
NOT BE LIABLE FOR DAMAGES RESULTING FROM THE FAILURE OF A FORM TO
ACCOMPLISH THE GOALS OF THE USER.***
TRADEMARKS
IBM PC, PS/2, AT, XT, and PC-DOS are trademarks of IBM. MS-DOS
and OS/2 are a trademark of Microsoft. DR-DOS is a trademark of
Digital Research. UNIX is a trademark of Bell Labs. R FRINGE is a
trademark of R FRINGE SOFTWARE, INC., THE HOME AND BUSINESS LEGAL
GUIDE is a trademark of EFP LEGAL MARKETING, INC., d/b/a R FRINGE
COMPUTER SOFTWARE.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
"Mouse.com" is copyright 1983,1984 by Microsoft, and is used
under license. PKLITE is used under license from PKWARE, Inc.
LHARC is Copyright 1990, Yoshi, and is used with permission.
SECTION 7
INDEX
Page 26
The index refers to section numbers, not page numbers.
Section Topic
1-1 System Requirements
2-1 Reference to Quickstart manual
2-2 Detailed operating instructions begin
2-3 Start up and main menu- keyboard users
2-4 Start up- mouse users
2-5 Selecting menu options
2-6 DOS SHELL 2-7 STATUTES MENU
2-8 Browsing through statutes
2-9 Note pad (on line)
2-10 On line definitions
2-11 Exiting statutes
2-12 TUTORIALS MENU
2-13 Selecting a tutorial
2-14 Taking notes (cross references to 2-9)
2-15 Opening a second menu
2-16 On line definitions
2-17 Exiting tutorials
2-18 DRAFTING DOCUMENTS (USING THE DOCUMENT GENERATOR)
2-19 Building documents, types of screens
2-20 Fill in the blank screens
2-21 Multiple choice screens
2-22 Finishing documents- naming documents
2-23 Printing documents
2-24 REVIEWING DOCUMENTS
2-25 Editing documents
3-1 INFORMATION REQUIRED TO CREATE DOCUMENTS
3-2 General Forms
3-3 Advertising purchase order
3-4 Assignment of promissory note
3-5 Bailment
3-6 Bankruptcy proof of claim
3-7 Bill of sale
3-8 Collection agency agreement
3-9 Commercial equipment lease
3-10 Consignment sales agreement
3-11 Corporate resolution to open bank account
3-12 Corporation Meeting Minutes
3-13 Corporate Meeting Minutes-- Changing officers
3-14 Corporation Meeting-- Waiver of Notice
3-15 Corporate Shares-- Proxy to Vote Shares
3-16 Credit Application
3-17 Designation of guardian for minor children
3-18 Employment agreement-- Technical/Managerial Employee
3-19 Employment- Lending of employee
3-20 Employment application-- Release of Information
3-21 Factoring Agreement
3-22 General Partnership Agreement (Simple, under $ 30,000)
3-23 Guarantee agreements
3-24 Hunting/Fishing/Sportsman's License
Page 27
3-25 Independent Contractor's Agreement
3-26 Insurance Claim Forms
3-27 Insurance Subrogation Agreement
3-28 Internal Revenue Service- Power of attorney
3-29 Lottery pool
3-30 Mutual release
3-31 Non disclosure agreements
3-32 Non-marriage, "living together agreement"
3-33 Patent assignment
3-34 Permission for child to go on group trip
3-35 Premarital agreement
3-36 Pledge of life insurance for debt
3-37 Purchase order
3-38 Retail store, rental of department
3-39 Retainer with accountant
3-40 Revocation of acceptance
3-41 Right of Rescission Notice
3-42 Security Agreement
3-43 Shareholder's Agreement
3-44 Statement of account request
3-45 Stock Option- Non-tax shelter
3-46 Stock pledge agreement
3-47 Stock purchase agreement
3-48 Stock Subscription Agreement
3-49 Transfer and Receipt- Uniform Gift's to Minor's Act
3-50 Unilateral Release of all claims
3-51 Unsecured Note
3-52 Unsecured Note, Payment limited to profits
3-53 Unsecured note, interest rate dependent on amount
3-54 Vending machine agreement
3-55 Bulk Sale Forms
3-56 Power of attorney forms
3-57 Real estate forms
3-58 Limited partnership forms
3-59 Deed forms
3-60 Living Will Forms
4-1 CUSTOMER SATISFACTION
4-2 Company philosophy on service
4-3 Updates, private BBS
5-1 About our staff
6-1 Warranty disclaimer and legalese
7-1 Index
Page 28