This book, described as an ‘essential guide to the company law regime for private companies’, is written for company secretaries, directors and in-house lawyers. It is designed to be an essential practical reference book, and covers key topics such as company formation, the company as a separate entity, examination of articles of association and statutory model articles, directors’ duties, shares and shareholder decisions.

The book opens with an introduction to the key sources of law and rules underpinning company law. This provides the reader with the background required to fully appreciate the significant changes this area of law has undergone from its ‘surprisingly humble beginnings’.

The content is well structured and guides the reader through the relevant Companies Act provisions, exploring the limitations of codification and directing the reader to further reading where discussion falls outside the scope of the book.

Overall, this book is well-written and easy to read. However, perhaps most importantly, it does exactly what it sets out to do: it is user-friendly and provides a helpful guide without assuming too high a level of prior knowledge. Furthermore, the use of plain language and simple scenarios make for a thoroughly practical resource that succinctly discusses key topics without delving in to the theoretical detail practitioners often do not require. I recommend this book for practitioners in this field.

Sarah Alexander-James is a solicitor and company secretary at Hampshire County Council

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