International Business Transactions

3 units

This course provides students with a survey of the legal aspects of international business transactions (IBT). It introduces students to the legal context, mechanics, instruments, and strategies used in the global business environment. Students will learn what kinds of transactions lawyers representing private entities undertake in the international context, how to approach such transactions in practical ways, and how larger policy concerns and controversies affect the lawyer's responsibilities in the global business arena. The course starts by covering the basic tasks and legal toolkit of engaging in IBT, which involves understanding multinational companies, aspects of international law, and the challenges of transaction planning. Then, the course addresses specific types of transactions, including international sale of goods, agency and distribution agreements, licensing agreements, foreign direct investment, joint ventures, mergers and acquisitions, and transactions with sovereign governments. No prior exposure to corporations, securities regulation, international law, or international trade is required for this course. 3 units.