diff --git a/CODE_OF_CONDUCT.md b/CODE_OF_CONDUCT.md
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..8a48503
--- /dev/null
+++ b/CODE_OF_CONDUCT.md
@@ -0,0 +1,29 @@
+# Code of Conduct
+
+Parallel is built on respect—for users, contributors, and the systems we design. We expect all participants to uphold a collaborative, inclusive, and transparent environment.
+
+## 🌱 Our Pledge
+
+In the interest of fostering an open and welcoming community, we pledge to:
+
+- Respect differing viewpoints and experiences.
+- Offer constructive feedback and thoughtful critique.
+- Avoid personal attacks, trolling, or disruptive behavior.
+- Honor the modular, expressive spirit of the project.
+
+## 🚫 Unacceptable Behavior
+
+Examples include:
+
+- Harassment or discrimination of any kind.
+- Dismissive or hostile responses to questions or feedback.
+- Sharing private information without consent.
+- Sabotaging or intentionally breaking the project.
+
+## 🧭 Enforcement
+
+Violations may result in warnings, temporary bans, or permanent removal from the project. Enforcement decisions are made by project maintainers.
+
+## 🙌 Scope
+
+This Code of Conduct applies to all project spaces—GitHub issues, pull requests, discussions, and any other community interactions.
\ No newline at end of file
diff --git a/CONTRIBUTING.md b/CONTRIBUTING.md
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..953f2c1
--- /dev/null
+++ b/CONTRIBUTING.md
@@ -0,0 +1,46 @@
+# Contributing to Parallel
+
+Thanks for your interest in contributing to Parallel! This project is built on transparency, modularity, and control. Whether you're fixing a bug, proposing a feature, or refining architecture, your input helps shape a tool that puts users in better control of their files.
+
+## 🛠 Development Philosophy
+
+Parallel is:
+- **Modular**: Each component should be independently testable and replaceable.
+- **Audit-friendly**: Changes should be traceable, documented, and intentional.
+- **Local-first**: Avoid assumptions about cloud dependencies.
+- **Legacy-worthy**: Code should be expressive, maintainable, and built to last.
+
+## 🧱 Getting Started
+
+1. **Clone the repo**: 
+    `git clone https://github.com/TheGuitarleader/Parallel.git`
+2. Create a new branch:  
+    `git checkout -b feature/your-feature-name`
+    `git checkout -b patch/your-patch-name`
+3. Make your changes with clear, modular commits.
+4. Push and open a **Pull Request** (PR):
+    `git push origin feature/your-feature-name`
+    `git push origin patch/your-patch-name`
+
+## 🔍 Pull Request Guidelines
+
+- Use descriptive titles and commit messages.
+- Reference related issues (e.g. `Fixed #42`).
+- Include tests for new logic where applicable.
+- Keep PRs focused—one feature or fix per PR.
+- Be open to feedback and iteration.
+
+## 🧪 Testing Expectations
+
+Parallel uses modular test suites. Before submitting a PR:
+- Run all relevant tests.
+- Add new ones if your logic introduces new behavior.
+- Validate edge cases and failure modes.
+
+## 🧭 Branch Protection & CI/CD
+
+All changes go through PR review. CI/CD pipelines validate builds across platforms. Please ensure your changes pass all checks before requesting review.
+
+## 💬 Communication
+
+Use [GitHub Issues](https://github.com/TheGuitarleader/Parallel/issues) for bugs, ideas, and discussion. We welcome thoughtful dialogue and collaborative troubleshooting.
\ No newline at end of file
diff --git a/LICENSE.md b/LICENSE.md
index b75b631..2f1c6e7 100644
--- a/LICENSE.md
+++ b/LICENSE.md
@@ -1,2 +1,7 @@
-Parallel © 2025 by [Kyle Ebbinga](https://github.com/TheGuitarleader/Parallel) is licensed under [Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/)
+Parallel is licensed under the [**Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International (CC BY-NC-SA 4.0)**](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/) license.
 
+* ✅ You can **use, modify, and share** this code freely.
+* ✅ You can **build on it**, fork it, and remix it — as long as you credit the original.
+* ❌ You **cannot sell** this code or use it in commercial products.
+* ❌ You **cannot claim it as your own** or strip attribution.
+* 🔁 If you make changes and share them, you must use the same license
\ No newline at end of file
diff --git a/README.md b/README.md
index 6da2a97..e709fc4 100644
--- a/README.md
+++ b/README.md
@@ -37,21 +37,6 @@ Your computer already gives you enough to fight with — your files don't have t
 
 Parallel is currently in early development. Expect rapid iteration, breaking changes, and lots of modular experimentation. Contributions, feedback, and testing are welcome!
 
-## 🤝 Contributing
-
-Want to help shape the future of file storage? Open an issue, submit a pull request, or reach out with ideas. Parallel is built for transparency — and that includes its development.
-
-## 📄 License
-
-Parallel is licensed under the **Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International (CC BY-NC-SA 4.0)** license.
-
-* ✅ You can **use, modify, and share** this code freely.
-* ✅ You can **build on it**, fork it, and remix it — as long as you credit the original.
-* ❌ You **cannot sell** this code or use it in commercial products.
-* ❌ You **cannot claim it as your own** or strip attribution.
-* 🔁 If you make changes and share them, you must use the same license
-
 ## 💬 Contact
 
 For questions and ideas, reach out via our [GitHub Issues](https://github.com/TheGuitarleader/Parallel/issues).
-