Family & Privately Owned Businesses
Privately held and family-owned businesses represent the most vital economic force in the United States. These enterprises account for the vast majority of U.S. businesses and a significant portion of the Fortune 500. We serve as trusted general counsel to family-owned and closely held companies, supporting them through daily operations, long-term planning, and generational transitions.
Our attorneys advise owners and leadership teams on legal matters that impact both the business and the family, helping clients navigate complex regulatory environments while protecting enterprise value and continuity.
General Counsel Services
- Day-to-day legal matters, including contract review and disputes
- Conducting annual meetings and preparing corporate records and minutes
- Advising on governance and ownership structure issues
- Providing ongoing general counsel guidance
- Coordinating employee benefits and employment-related matters
- Managing and coordinating litigation and other legal services
Navigating Risk, Transition, and Growth
Family-owned and privately held businesses face unique challenges involving regulatory compliance, governance, succession planning, taxation, and estate planning. Historical data shows that only a small percentage of family businesses successfully transition beyond the second and third generations, with leadership changes often driven by retirement or semi-retirement.
We work closely with business owners to overcome these challenges by developing operational, governance, and growth strategies designed to preserve continuity, reduce risk, and position the business for long-term success.
Additional Areas of Counsel
- Entity formation and organizational structuring
- Human resources and workplace compliance issues
- Debt and equity financing arrangements
- Succession planning and estate planning coordination
- Intellectual property protection and licensing
- Business expansion and strategic growth initiatives
- Real estate acquisition, disposition, and leasing
- Equipment purchase and leasing
- Technology and software licensing
- All other legal matters related to operating a family business