As an introduction to banking law, Banking Law Essentials lays the groundwork for lawyers to decipher this complex area of law. The author, Karol K. Sparks, delivers "just the basics" with practical tips and proven advice, in an easy-to-read conversational tone.


The book shares decades of accumulated legal learning by the author and contributors and reflects their experience and knowledge as practitioners and educators. They simplify banking law and highlight what you need to know to get started on the substance. Beginning with "what is a bank?" to knowing your client and addressing your role as risk advisor, the book covers:





The roles of the banking regulatory agencies

The dual banking system

The corporate family - bank holding companies, subsidiaries, and more

The business of banking

Capital basics

Nuts and bolts of prudential law - 23A and B, Regulation O and Lending Limits

Fundamentals of bank examination and enforcement

and more!


To help you navigate the acronyms, jargon, and obscure historical references to cases and statutes, the "Acronyms, Lingo, and Jargon" appendix is a quick and convenient resource. Included are banking terms, legal references, definitions, and chapter references to locate the terms in the discussion.