Putnam's Handy Law Book for the Layman

Designed for anyone who has ever felt lost in a legal form or puzzled by a seemingly simple contract, this concise guide demystifies everyday law. The author, a former professor of commercial law, opens with a clear explanation of basic terms such as statutes, common law, and precedents, then moves on to practical rules that affect ordinary transactions—how long a check may sit idle, what constitutes a reasonable deadline, or why a misplaced comma can alter a contract’s meaning. Real‑world anecdotes illustrate the pitfalls of relying on good sense alone, urging readers to double‑check their assumptions before signing.

The book is organized as a quick‑reference handbook, covering topics from agency and bailment to wills, mortgages, and insurance, each explained in plain language and accompanied by sample forms. While it stops short of offering exhaustive legal advice, it equips listeners with enough foundational knowledge to recognize when professional counsel is needed. Readers come away more confident about navigating the legal landscape that surrounds everyday decisions.