Guide to Writing Corporate Bylaws

Learn to write corporate bylaws so you can effectively govern your corporation’s internal operations.
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writing corporate bylaws

Starting a corporation involves more than just filing the necessary paperwork. It also requires establishing rules and guidelines that govern the internal operations of the company. Corporate bylaws play a crucial role in this process, and most states require corporations to have them. 

In this guide, we’ll explain what corporate bylaws are, who writes them, how they are adopted, and what to include in your bylaws. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge you need to create effective bylaws for your corporation.

What are corporate bylaws?

Corporate bylaws are a set of rules and regulations that outline how a corporation will operate. They define the internal structure, roles, and responsibilities of directors, officers, and shareholders.

It’s important to note that corporate bylaws differ from the Articles of Incorporation and a shareholder’s agreement. While the Articles of Incorporation establish the corporation definition as a legal entity and the shareholder’s agreement deals with the rights and obligations of shareholders, the bylaws focus on the corporation’s internal affairs.

Who writes the corporate bylaws?

The task of writing corporate bylaws typically falls to the incorporator or the board of directors. The incorporator is the person or entity responsible for initiating the corporation’s formation. If the board of directors has been appointed, they play a key role in creating and adopting the bylaws. The bylaws should align with the corporation’s goals and comply with relevant laws and regulations.

How are the bylaws adopted?

The board of directors adopts the corporate bylaws during their first board meeting. It’s crucial to document this adoption process in the meeting minutes. By following the correct procedures and obtaining necessary approvals, the bylaws become official and binding for the corporation.

What do I include in my corporate bylaws?

When writing your corporate bylaws, it’s important to include certain key elements. This isn’t necessarily an exhaustive list, of course; different corporations have different needs. But these are some of the most common aspects to include.

  • Legal Corporation Name: Clearly state the corporation’s legal name as it appears in the Articles of Incorporation.
  • Corporation Address and Basic Information: Provide the official address and principal place of business of the corporation.
  • Statement of Purpose: Define the corporation’s purpose, which should be broad enough to encompass its intended activities.
  • Number of Directors and Corporate Officers: Specify the number of directors and outline the roles and responsibilities of corporate officers.
  • Officer Responsibilities: Clearly define the duties and powers of officers such as the CEO, CFO, and Secretary.
  • Number and Type of Shares and Stock Classes: Describe the types of shares the corporation can issue and the rights and privileges attached to each class.
  • How Stocks Are Issued: Outline the process for issuing shares, including any restrictions or requirements.
  • Director Meeting Procedures and Times: Establish guidelines for conducting board meetings, including notice requirements and voting procedures.
  • Shareholder Meeting Procedures and Times: Specify the procedures for calling and conducting shareholder meetings, including voting rights and quorum requirements.
  • How Directors and Officers Are Appointed: Detail the process for appointing directors and officers, including any qualifications or prerequisites.
  • Committees: If applicable, outline the creation, composition, and responsibilities of any committees established by the board.
  • Indemnification: Address the corporation’s policy on indemnifying directors, officers, and employees against legal actions.
  • Quorum Requirements: Define the minimum number of directors or shareholders required for a meeting to be valid.
  • Voting Proxy Rules: Establish guidelines for proxy voting, allowing shareholders to vote by proxy if unable to attend a meeting.
  • How to Resolve Internal Disputes: Provide a mechanism for resolving internal disputes, such as mediation or arbitration.
  • Conflicts of Interest: Set forth rules and procedures to address conflicts of interest among directors, officers, and shareholders.
  • How to Amend Bylaws: Specify the procedure for amending the bylaws, including required approvals and documentation.

Every business has its own unique needs, so if you need to add or subtract from this list, you can. Just be sure that your bylaws adhere to your state’s requirements, and you’ll be set. And if you need help, check out our favorite bylaws services.

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FAQs About Writing Corporate Bylaws

  • Examples of provisions commonly found in corporate bylaws include the number of directors and their roles, the process for electing directors, the rights and responsibilities of shareholders, procedures for calling and conducting meetings, rules for voting and quorum requirements, guidelines for appointing and removing officers, and provisions for amending the bylaws. These are just a few examples, and the specific content of bylaws can vary depending on the needs and structure of the corporation.

  • Corporate bylaws are written to provide a framework for the internal governance and operation of a corporation. They establish rules and procedures that guide the decision-making process, define the roles and responsibilities of directors and officers, outline the rights and obligations of shareholders, and set forth the processes for conducting meetings, making important corporate decisions, and resolving conflicts. Bylaws serve as a contract between the corporation, its directors, officers, and shareholders, helping ensure clarity, consistency, and compliance within the organization.

  • While corporate bylaws are crucial for the internal operations of a corporation and are required in most states, they’re not typically required to be filed with a government agency. Bylaws are internal documents that are kept within the corporation and are not typically made available to the public.

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Disclaimer: The content on this page is for information purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or accounting advice. If you have specific questions about any of these topics, seek the counsel of a licensed professional.

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Written by Team ZenBusiness

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