YOUR SUCCESS IS OUR BUSINESS.
Our Brownlee LLP Corporate Practice Group is ready to assist you in every phase of your business. As your partner in strategic growth, we serve you through every stage of your business’ development. In all phases from initial startup to the implementation of significant change and, where appropriate, sale, winding-up or dissolution, we have a broad spectrum of expertise to address the specific circumstances of our clients. At any given time, any one or more of the following examples may be relevant to your business:
ESTABLISHMENT
In startup, clients will need to select the form of business vehicle most appropriate for operations. Many will choose a business corporation, but realistic and viable alternatives should be carefully considered in order that an informed decision can be made.
OWNERSHIP & GOVERNANCE
In addition to determining the original owners of a business, thought should be given as to how owners can be added (such as key employees) and how they can depart or be removed. Mechanisms can be designed to accommodate how and when these changes can occur in a manner appropriate to the relevant circumstances. Further, guidelines are important to help establish the policy and direction for a business and facilitate implementation of top level decisions. Specific rights or limitations may be required in governing documents. Many times a shareholder agreement, partnership agreement or some other relationship document will be recommended.
FINANCE
Initial investment and additional funds that can be made available for the capital and operational needs of a business are considered closely with our clients and their financial advisors. When the necessary decisions are made, they can be supported with the appropriate agreements to facilitate the relevant funding arrangements.
ONGOING OPERATIONS
Brownlee LLP advises on the wide range of issues facing owners and management directed at the successful functioning of the business and the workplace. The following are examples of some common issues:
- organization policy and direction
- discharge of fiduciary duty of directors and officers
- management empowerment and control
- directors meetings and minutes
- owner and third party financial support
- routine annual corporate compliance
- financial records and disclosure
- employment and labour
- intellectual property
- risk management
- annual shareholder meetings;
- securities compliance and disclosure
- distribution of profits
- dealing with unexpected circumstances when they arise
PURCHASE & SALE OF A BUSINESS & SUCCESSION PLANNING
A business may be faced with a voluntary or involuntary change in ownership and control. Where our client is proceeding with a merger or acquisition, the appropriate business vehicle must be designed to accommodate the long term goals following completion of the transaction. In circumstances where our client controls the subject business, an opportunity for smooth transfer or succession planning can arise. In all situations where significant ownership changes are likely, we collaborate closely with our clients and their other professionals including financial, accounting and tax advisors to help achieve the objectives of our clients in the relevant circumstances.
ONGOING COMMUNICATIONS
Our Brownlee LLP Corporate Practice Group encourages regular open and frank discussions with our clients in order to best identify the most important considerations and to respond appropriately to the needs of our clients.
PRACTICE TEAM
KATHLEEN M. MARCINKEVICS lawyer
Tel: 1-780-970-5735
Email: kmarcinkevics@brownleelaw.com
JOHN C. MCDONNELL
partner, corporate/commercial practice area leader
Tel: 1-780-497-4801
Email: jmcdonnell@brownleelaw.com
DYLAN G. MUSCAT lawyer
Tel: 1-780-497-4887
Email: dmuscat@brownleelaw.com
Get In Touch
Contact us today to discuss your legal needs.