1. Partnerships and Partnership Law

This chapter describes the essential characteristics and consequences of a partnership and the derivation and development of partnership law in England and Wales under the Partnership Act 1890. It also covers the introduction of limited partnerships and contrasts both with LLPs; topics which are dealt with from chapter 9 onwards. It highlights the lack of legal personality, contrasting that with partnership law in Scotland, and the consequent problems of contemplated partnerships and continuity. Then it sets out the three essentials for a partnership to exist: a business, carried on in common, with a view of profit, contrasting partnerships with joint ventures. The chapter also considers the complications if there are corporate partners. Finally, it sets out the basic issues relating to jurisdiction for foreign partnerships.