Navigating the contemporary business landscape can be challenging for both new and established entities alike. Whether it’s forming a new business, engaging in successful transactions, or any other matter, it is crucial to work with an experienced attorney. At the law office of J. Trent Lehman, we provide comprehensive legal services to businesses throughout the state of Tennessee. Our legal team works with clients on a wide range of matters. This includes business formation strategies, business transactions and contract negotiations, business succession planning, and dispute resolution. By understanding each client’s unique objectives, we work tirelessly to help them achieve successful outcomes.
Business Formation AttorneyThere are a number of important considerations involved in starting a new business, such as selecting the appropriate business structure. Above all, it is crucial to protect the owners from personal liability. We routinely work with clients to form the following organizations: We prepare foundational documents such as Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws, submit the necessary filings with the state, and help obtain any required business licenses. Our attorneys work closely with each client to design strategies aimed at achieving their goals. Business Transaction Attorney At the law office of J. Trent Lehman, we advise clients on business transactions such as commercial real estate, business transfers, joint ventures and mergers and acquisitions. We also negotiate and draft transaction documents, including partnership agreements, operating agreements, shareholder agreements, employment agreements, non-disclosure and non-compete agreements. In addition, we provide guidance on business entity financing, state and federal tax planning, regulatory affairs and dispute resolution. Our legal and business insights are designed to help business owners make strategic decisions. We are committed to protecting their interests and helping them become successful. Business Succession Planning AttorneyNo business can be successful without an effective leader at the helm. However, many businesses are not prepared to survive into the next generation if the owner passes away or retires. We work with closely-held and family run businesses to design succession plans as part of an overall estate planning strategy.
In short, the goal is to allow a business to continue operating in the event of the owner’s sudden death, illness or retirement. Two important considerations are selecting a successor and determining the value of the business.
Our legal team is well-versed in the various business valuation methods. By collaborating with a trusted network of accountants and financial professionals, we work to reach fair and accurate valuations that will protect our clients’ interests.
Additionally, we negotiate and draft the necessary buy sell agreements such as cross purchase and entity purchase agreements:
Cross Purchase Agreement - In this arrangement, each partner buys and owns an insurance policy on the others. If a key person dies, the insurance proceeds are paid to the surviving partners who then purchase the deceased partner's share.
Entity Purchase Agreement - The business purchases a single policy on each partner and is also the beneficiary. In the event of a partner's death, the insurance proceeds are used to purchase deceased individual's share, and the value of the other partners’ interests increases.In sum, a well designed business succession can enable the entity to continue operating and also avoid conflicts and confusion among remaining owners, partners and family members. We dedicate ourselves to helping our clients achieve their financial goals. Moreover, we work to secure their personal and business assets and ensure that their loved ones are protected.Business Dispute Resolution AttorneyOur legal team is experienced in handling business disputes, whether through arbitration, mediation or litigation. We have a proven track record of helping our clients resolve disputes such as breach of contract, as well as the enforceability of partnership agreements, shareholder agreements and employment contracts. Because a protracted litigation can be costly, we often recommend that clients reach negotiated settlements. However, we are fully prepared to litigate any matter in court.
Contact Our Nashville Business Law Lawyers At the law office of J. Trent Lehman, we provide sophisticated legal advice that is typically found at a large law firm. The difference is that we offer the highest level of personal service. Over our many years of practice, we have earned a reputation for being trusted advisors. Our guiding principle is to the put the best interests of our clients at all times.
Regardless of the situation, we provide objective insights that allow small and mid-sized businesses to achieve their objectives. We are keenly aware that disputes are inevitable, and always work to protect our clients, inside or outside of the courtroom. If you need assistance forming a new business, closing a transaction, or designing a succession plan, we can help. Call our office or complete the contact form on our website to set up a consultation. Tennessee Business Law Attorney Helping Clients in Davidson County, William County, Brentwood and Nashville.
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