Business owners and directors need to know more about the law if they want their firms to run smoothly.

A course designed to keep bosses up to date with the latest business and employment laws is being held at the Thistle Hotel in Brighton on May 17.

Lewes MP Norman Baker is guest speaker and will share with delegates his experiences of dealing with the law.

The Liberal Democrat MP won a legal test case last year when he challenged the Government's blanket ban on MI5 releasing material it holds on individuals.

The seminar is run by Law-Watch and designed to appeal to company directors and legal advisers.

Spokesman Julian Wilkins said: "The law concerning employment is always changing. It is difficult for people concerned with the law to keep up with legislation so for people who are trying to run a business and keep abreast of the changes it is a nightmare."

At the event, backed by Sussex Enterprise, Law Watch will explore legal responsibilities such as directors' obligations in employment law, financial planning and leadership skills.

Among the contributors will be Benjimin Burgher, an employment legislation specialist from solicitors Norton Rose, David Magill, the chief executive of the Windsor Leadership Trust, and John Grieve, of independent financial advisers Inter Alliance.

The event is organised in conjunction with the faculty of law at the University of Sussex and there will be contributions from the dean, Harry Rajak.

The keynote address will be from David McIntosh, president of the Law Society, who said he recognised the impact the changes in the law had on businesses and the economy.

He said the legal profession could assist the commercial world in fulfilling its objectives while still meeting its legal responsibilities.

Details are available from Jasmin Driver on 01323 434714.