The field of cooperative business law has expanded as the use of this unique corporate structure extends into new business areas. Michael Droke and other members of Dorsey’s Food, Beverage and Agribusiness industry group and Cooperative Law practice group have compiled this practical guide to help board members and executives understand the many and varied legal issues that can arise when serving a cooperative and its members.

Cooperatives often act, and are legally treated, like all other types of corporate business entities. This guide focuses on legal treatment unique to the cooperative structure, and areas where general business law principles operate differently because of the cooperative structure.