"Online Law: The Software Publishers Association's (SPA) Legal Guide to Doing Business on the Internet" is the first comprehensive, in-depth legal guide to electronic commerce and the Internet that makes sense for legal minds and businessmen alike.

The guide was written by Thomas J. Smedinghoff and other members of the McBride Baker & Coles law firm in Chicago and was commissioned by the SPA.

"Our goal was to give corporate decision makers contemplating doing business on the Internet a roadmap for navigating the maze of online legal issues they will face," Smedinghoff told Newsbytes.

Smedinghoff, who also is intellectual property counsel to the SPA, said that online business "is still largely unknown territory even for companies that have taken the plunge."

"Online Law" is divided into 32 understandable chapters covering some of the most challenging legal issues facing Internet-related business. The book is written in a straightforward, practical style for the business person, although enough footnote citations appear to keep even the most experienced lawyer happy.

The book covers such topics as the legal role of information security; electronic recordkeeping; creating and maintaining online contracts and payment options, such as electronic fund transfers, electronic checks and digital cash; electronic property rights; protecting trade secrets online; the role of the First Amendment online; and regulating online conduct.

"Sooner or later, nearly every business will be affected by Internet commerce," Smedinghoff told Newsbytes. "In 1994 online services accounted for an estimated $324.9 million of transactions in the electronic marketplace, and online commerce is expected to soar to $1.44 billion by 2000."

Noting that revenue from Internet business alone is expected to grow to $948.8 million by 2000, Smedinghoff said, "It's risky for businesses not to address these thorny legal issues head-on, using experienced legal counsel."

"Online Law" is available through SPA for $34.95. To order, contact Maureen O'Toole, Addison-Wesley, One Jacob Way, Reading, Massachusetts 01867, tel 800-822-6339; fax 617-944-8243.

(Bill Pietrucha/19960611/Press Contact: Lisa Collins, Marcy Monyek and Associates, tel 312-263-2135)