[FSFE PR][EN] FTF releases legal infrastructure guide for Free Software projects

[Free Software Foundation Europe]

FTF releases legal infrastructure guide for Free Software projects

2009-01-23, Zurich, Graeme West, FSFE

FSFE's Freedom Task Force (FTF) is pleased to announce the release of a
guide to assist with establishing legal infrastructure for Free Software
projects.

The guide [1] gives tips on how Free Software projects can consolidate
their legal position.  It includes information about setting up legal
entities, dealing with copyright issues, managing trademarks, and best
practices for project management.

"When projects start to become successful, it's important for their
members to consider what structures will scale successfully, be
compatible with the founding principles, and protect the integrity of
the project community", says Shane Coughlan, FTF Coordinator. "This
guide provides a starting point for internal debate, and can help
projects prepare a description of their requirements for consultation
with experts."

"Every project is different, but all can benefit from ensuring they
have a sound legal basis", explains Graeme West, FTF Intern. The guide
was authored by FTF staff in consultation with members of the FTF
European Legal Network. It is available as part of the newly redesigned
FTF web site [2], where other guides on topics like licence compliance
can also be found.

[1] http://www.fsfeurope.org/projects/ftf/building-legal-infrastructure
[2] http://www.fsfeurope.org/ftf/


About the Freedom Task Force

     The Freedom Task Force is an activity run by Free Software Foundation
     Europe to help people understand Free Software licensing and the
     opportunities it presents.  We offer educational services, facilitate
     larger infrastructure activities and manage FSFE's legal affairs.
     Our goals are to share knowledge about Free Software law, to
     safeguard the interests of Free Software projects, to connect
     experts in this field and to help other groups achieve similar goals.
     We believe in positive, constructive dialogue and seek at all times
     to support the long-term sustainability of Free Software.

The FTF's homepage can be found at http://www.fsfeurope.org/ftf
You can contact us via email: ftf @ fsfeurope.org

   You can phone us at:
    Belgium:     +32 2 747 03 57	Ext. 22
    Germany:     +49 700 373 38 76 73	Ext. 22
    Sweden:      +46 31 7802160		Ext. 22
    Switzerland: +41 43 500 03 66	Ext. 22
    UK:          +44 29 200 08 17 7	Ext. 22

   Press contact: Shane Coughlan, FTF Coordinator,  FSFE extension: 408


About the Free Software Foundation Europe:

   The Free Software Foundation Europe (FSFE) is a non-profit
   non-governmental organisation active in many European countries and
   involved in many global activities. Access to software determines
   participation in a digital society. To secure equal participation in the
   information age, as well as freedom of competition, the Free Software
   Foundation Europe (FSFE) pursues and is dedicated to the furthering of
   Free Software, defined by the freedoms to use, study, modify and
   copy.Founded in 2001, creating awareness for these issues, securing Free
   Software politically and legally, and giving people Freedom by
   supporting development of Free Software are central issues of the FSFE.

FSFE's homepage can be found at http://www.fsfeurope.org

   You can reach the FSFE switchboard from:
    Belgium:     +32 2 747 03 57
    Germany:     +49 700 373 38 76 73
    Sweden:      +46 31 7802160
    Switzerland: +41 43 500 03 66
    UK:          +44 29 200 08 17 7

   Further information: http://www.fsfeurope.org