how to find a lawyer for business sale

by Carolyne Boehm Jr. 7 min read

Contact the organization or state agency that oversees lawyer licensing in your state. Search for [Your state] lawyer licensing. The site might indicate which lawyers or firms offer pro bono representation.

Full Answer

How much does a business sale attorney cost?

If a client is forming a corporation or LLC at the same time, the cost is $6,995. Including internet terms, trademarks and employment the estimate is $11,995. Comment On Your Experience With a Business Sale Attorney

Do you need a lawyer to buy a business?

Buying or selling a business is often a monumental decision for all parties involved. There are several phases for each process of buying or selling, and a qualified business attorney can assist you through every step.

Why sell your law firm?

The Firm has highly experienced, long-term employees, including attorneys who handle most cases that will remain at the firm. The Seller is willing to stay on with the buyer post-sale. This is an exciting opportunity for an existing law firm looking to expand or for one or more lawyers looking to take over an existing law practice!

Why hire a business&commercial lawyer?

You've come to the right place. Whether you are a Fortune 500 company, a small business, or a start-up, a business and commercial lawyer can help with all aspects of running a business. Business & Commercial lawyers can assist in the formation of a business, the sale of a business and everything in between.

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How do I sell my business privately?

How to Sell a Small Business in 7 StepsDetermine the value of your company. ... Clean up your small business financials. ... Prepare your exit strategy in advance. ... Boost your sales. ... Find a business broker. ... Pre-qualify your buyers. ... Get business contracts in order.

What is the best way to market to lawyers?

10 steps for marketing your law firmCreate a marketing budget. ... Build a well-designed law firm website. ... Ensure your site is search engine optimized. ... Claim your free online profiles. ... Make sure your law firm has a social media presence. ... Manage your law firm's online reviews effectively. ... Try your hand at content marketing.More items...•

How do lawyers attract businesses?

Three Powerful StrategiesDevelop a Professional Website. To put it simply, most of your advertising efforts will fall flat if you don't have a solid base to build your marketing from. ... Provide People with Value. Becoming a lawyer isn't an easy task. ... Partner With a Lead Generation Service.

Do law firms have sales?

Just as lawyers practice law, sales professionals sell. They know how to develop a sales strategy, move potential opportunities to the next level toward closing business, and expand existing client opportunities. The lawyers' roles change with a professional sales team.

What do legal marketers do?

Legal marketing professionals develop and evaluate client surveys to identify the strengths and weaknesses of their firms, client satisfaction, concerns, and expectations. They also track referral sources of new business and maintain positive relations with these sources.

How do lawyers advertise their services?

Personal publicity by a lawyer in any form of media such as by press, radio, television, by electronic commercial communications or otherwise is permitted to the extent it complies with the requirements of 2.6.

How do you attract a lawyer?

15 Steps to Get Clients As a Lawyer or Law FirmStep 1—Use SEO. ... Step 2—Embrace Referrals. ... Step 3—Build Business Profiles. ... Step 4—Maintain a Website. ... Step 5—Get Reviews. ... Step 6—Consider Reputation Management. ... Step 7—Be Present on Social Media. ... Step 8—Be a Thought Leader.More items...

How do advocates get clients?

Advocates have no direct contact with clients. For this reason advocates are said to be in a referral profession. Attorneys are the lawyers that clients see first with their problems. Attorneys give general advice in the law.

What is an attorney called?

In the United States, the terms lawyer and attorney are often used interchangeably. For this reason, people in and out of the legal field often ask, “is an attorney and a lawyer the same thing?”. In colloquial speech, the specific requirements necessary to be considered a lawyer vs attorney aren't always considered.

Are lawyers salespeople?

Lawyers and salesmen often come from different educational backgrounds, but the biggest difference between them is what they are selling: salesmen sell services and products and lawyers sell their client's case or position.

What can a business lawyer do to help a client recover damages?

In cases that a breach of contract causes minimal harm, a business lawyer can help their client recover damages, such as: contract rescission, specific performance, or contract modification.

What is the process of buying a business?

There are several phases for each process of buying or selling, and a qualified business attorney can assist you through every step. Both the buyer and the seller must be fully prepared for each phase of the process in order to complete a successful purchase or sale of the business.

Why is it important to have a contract attorney?

It is important to have a contracts attorney review the content contained within the contract in order to avoid problems down the line.

What is the decision of what business management structure should be used in forming a business?

The decision of what business management structure should be used in forming a business, is an important one. Different management structures each come with their own pros and cons, and a business lawyer can assist you in deciding which is best for your situation.

How to sell a small business?

What should be included: 1 The process of selling a business takes a minimum of several months. Among other steps, you will want a potential buyer to sign a nondisclosure/confidentiality agreement before providing details about your business operations. The nonprofit group Score lists 12 crucial steps for selling a small business and FindLaw.com outlines the advantages and disadvantages of an asset transfer compared to a purchase [ 5] . 2 Each aspect of a purchase agreement can have tax or other implications, so many experts recommend having legal advice from the first stages of negotiating a business or asset purchase agreement. The document itself is likely to be both long and complicated; for more elaborate deals, the contract plus attachments can be hundreds of pages long. Usually the buyer's lawyer provides the initial draft of the agreement; then the seller reviews the document with another attorney and suggests possible revisions. Lawyers.com provides an overview of the sale process. 3 A typical agreement should include such items as a list of the assets being sold, the purchase price, a list of inventory and specific financial arrangements (in as many as 90 percent of all sales of small businesses, the seller provides some of the financing for the buyer). The Small Business Administration offers a checklist [ 6] of what should be part of the agreement and a Colorado attorney provides a glossary [ 7] of common terms.

How long does it take to sell a business?

The process of selling a business takes a minimum of several months. Among other steps, you will want a potential buyer to sign a nondisclosure/confidentiality agreement before providing details about your business operations.

What is the most common arrangement for buying a small business?

However, the most common arrangement for buying a small business (and often the most beneficial from a buyer's perspective) is an asset transfer agreement , where the buyer purchases specific assets (or all the assets) of a business, but not the entire entity.

How much does an attorney charge to draw up a contract?

Having an attorney draw up a business purchase contract or an asset transfer agreement often requires at least 10-15 hours of the lawyer's time at an hourly rate of $100-$300, for a total of $1,000-$4,500. That's a starting point for a straightforward agreement with revisions. More complex agreements or those with a lot ...

What is a business purchase agreement?

A business purchase agreement (or stock purchase agreement for a corporation) is used when a buyer is acquiring an entire business, its assets and its liabilities, including its debts and obligations such as unpaid taxes or potential lawsuits . However, the most common arrangement for buying a small business ...

What happens if your business doesn't cause environmental problems?

An environmental issue arises and your business is involved (even if your business didn't cause the environmental problem, you may be penalized) Negotiating for the sale or your company or for the acquisition of another company or its assets.

Do you need legal help when it's too late?

But when you do, it's good to know where to find the right one. And -- more to the point -- you may not know you need legal help until it's too late, as attorneys can help you stay in compliance with the law and spot developing legal issues early.

What is a divorce law firm?

A one-of-a-kind Divorce Law firm that offers a low-cost solution to solving family law issues with easy payment plans to meet every budget. The firm has a strong staff including Florida Bar Attorneys. A very strong online presence and great reputation make this the perfect opportunity for someone looking for an established footprint in the South Florida divorce market. Please refer to listing number 6401107223, business broker Joshua Sagman 561-707-8986 when inquiring about this listing.

Where is the principal office of a law firm located?

The principal office of the law firm is located in a building owned by the principal shareholder. That building is not for sale and the law firm would have to relocate within reasonable period after the closing of the sale, the main office of the business is relocatable.

What is legal document service?

Legal Document Service - specializing in divorce, child custody, living trusts, wills, probate, and more. Low rent, attractive location, solid reputation, simple to run, no employees, flexible hours, very low overhead, repeat customers with frequent referrals. Seller willing to train new owner for 2 weeks at no extra cost. Seller willing to transfer current lease along with all office furnishings and supplies. Seller willing to transfer customer list, url, along with all domains, if new owner is interested. Perfect business for bi-lingual owner or someone looking to work from home most of the time. Call today to find out more!

What is a unique opportunity with this non-traditional modernized law firm located in a retail location?

Main focus of this law firm is providing excellent customer and legal services on a wide range of general practice needs. This is being done in an approachable, professional, yet easy to access retail law firm setting. Use of technology helps in the practice of law, but fundamentally, clients want to talk and see an experienced, trusted attorney to help them with their legal needs. This law firm has been building a growing brand, with many operational systems in place allowing for easy transition. Complete training transition package available as part of this distinctive opportunity. This business concept is poised to be a viable option for the future of law firms. Foot traffic and walk ins are an impressive part of the success of this business. Seller is in the process of launching the concept as a franchise in select states of this amazing concept and you could be part of it. Established in 2014, Gross Sales 2019 $500k and growing, Nets $200k + 1525 sq. ft modern retail office space. Rent ca $3,600 plus NNN 3 team members including owner Please do not speak to anyone at this location. Please provide a signed NDA and Proof of Funds for more info

What is a profitable law firm in New Jersey?

Profitable New Jersey law firm focusing on Estate Law in an affluent community. The firm is staple in its community with steadily growing demand and revenues. Their scope of work includes Estate Planning, Trusts, Estate Administration, Probate, as well as Tax and Medicaid. • Estate Planning. • Estate Administration • Estate Litigation • Medicaid. • Tax This firm has cultivated an extensive client base, referral network, and trusted relationships with key community members including financial consultants and lawyer networks which drive new lead generation and new business. GROWING REVENUES The firm continues to grow organically with increasing demand, revenues and cash flows to owner year over year. This is the perfect opportunity for an attorney or law firm looking for proven revenues and a long-established reputation to continue to profit for years to come. EXTENSIVE CLIENT DATABASE The firm has a steady base of many repeat clients for estate-related matters that provide consistent and growing year-to-year practice revenues and additional referrals. Demand continues to grow and the firm is primed for continued success and growth under a developed transition plan to new ownership. AFFLUENT MARKETPLACE The firm chose its strategic office location for high visibility in its affluent community making the firm convenient and highly accessible to its high-income target market. TENURED STAFF The firm boasts a tenured and knowledgeable staff. This incredible staff help to drive the client process and business operations. The well-trained staff assist in driving key firm day-to-day operations and are an invaluable asset for transitioning the firm and preserving value into the future. FLEXIBLE TRANSITION Ownership is focused on finding the right successor to carry forward the firm culture, reputation, and high-quality legal services. This is the perfect opportunity for an attorney or law firm looking for proven revenues and a tremendous marketplace from which to profit for years to come. If you are an estate planning law attorney or firm looking for that growth opportunity in New Jersey look no further!

What is an incredible law firm acquisition opportunity in New York?

Incredible law firm acquisition opportunity in New York focusing exclusively on removal, asylum and family-based immigration law. With outstanding revenues and cash flows to owner, growing case inventory, and immense growth opportunity this is a can’t miss opportunity. In addition, this already amazing opportunity is priced to sell with a focus on finding the right successor. REVENUES CASH FLOWS Excellent firm reputation generates continually growing annual revenues which exceeded $600,000 in 2019 and strategically low overhead maximizes cash flows to ownership which exceeded $400,000 in 2019. CASE INVENTORY During quarantine and the court system closures that NY city has implemented, the firm has continued to accumulate quality cases and inventory that will be transferred as part of sale for immediate cash flow benefit and security to the next owner. Active client case files currently exceed 500 open cases with typical total per case value between $4,000 and $7,000 and the majority of these cases are paused awaiting the reopening of the court system. STRATEGIC LOCATION The tremendous office location, which has been tested and proven in the marketplace, has been strategically positioned to be convenient and highly accessible to the marketplace while maximizing profit margins to ownership. CLIENT SATISFACTION AND REPUTATION The firm prides itself on excellent client service that sets it apart from its competition driving new leads and high retention rates. The firm generates new leads solely on its reputation and word of mouth which continues to generate significant and growing revenues year over year. Priced to sell this is a can’t miss opportunity to maximize value to the buyer. This firm is ready for continued success and growth under a developed transition plan to new ownership. This is the perfect opportunity for an attorney or law firm looking for proven revenues and a tremendous growth opportunity to continue to profit from for years to come. If you are a law attorney or firm looking for an immigration growth opportunity in New York look no further!

What is a legal talent marketplace?

The company is an online legal talent marketplace connecting law firms with vetted staff for intake, research and drafting, courtroom work and more. The company is national and operates entirely remote and has developed additional product and services for additional revenue growth. The company is a trusted and reputable brand in a niche market. The company is independently run. The buyer can retain more profit if wishes to be more involved in the day to day management of the company.

What to ask before hiring an attorney?

Before hiring any attorney, interview them , ask for references and check to ensure that no malpractice suits have been filed against them. 2. A sharp accountant. Here's why you need one: One of the most important things to consider about buying a business is its financial performance.

What is a business broker?

An experienced business broker is familiar with the local market, has established relationships with the business community and can help you search for a business for sale. Most brokers usually specialize in certain industries. They can advise you on what to look for and what to ask the owner. Oftentimes, they also do professional valuations ...

What does a broker profile show?

The broker’s profile should show the types of businesses they’ve sold and their areas of expertise. Their profile will also indicate if they are a member of professional association, such as the International Business Brokers Association (IBBA) or a state association, such as the California Business Brokers Association (CABB).

What is the key component of buying a business?

A key component in buying a business is ensuring the transaction is done legally and properly. From contacting the owner and signing a non-disclosure agreement, to deciding on the structure of the purchase, nearly all documents should be reviewed by your attorney.

Do accountants show profit?

Additionally, their accounting methods focus on minimizing their taxes. As a result, their financials may not show much of a profit, or any profit. An experienced account will review their financials and ask the owner specific questions about how they make their money.

Do accountants have to be certified in business valuation?

Many accountants are also credentialed in business valuation and are certified as professional business appraisers.

Why do I need an attorney for a business?

Some benefits of working with an attorney for buying a business include knowing the right questions to ask during negotiations, ensuring that a business is legally compliant, and getting advice from a legal expert on what types of clauses should be included in a final contract.

What is the first step to take when buying an existing business?

One step that is crucial when buying an existing business is that the purchaser must absolutely do its due diligence. This process may involve appraising the existing business and its assets, and making sure that the business is in compliance ...

What documents are needed for a business?

Request to see the existing business’s current financial, legal, and other important documents, including:#N#Bank statements (if possible);#N#Tax returns from the last three to five years;#N#Legal documents, such as contracts, liens, pending lawsuits, outstanding debts, leases, registered intellectual property, licenses, permits, and so forth;#N#A list of inventory, fixtures, furniture, machinery, etc.#N#A list of current clients; and/or#N#Their current business, marketing, and advertising plans (if any). 1 Bank statements (if possible); 2 Tax returns from the last three to five years; 3 Legal documents, such as contracts, liens, pending lawsuits, outstanding debts, leases, registered intellectual property, licenses, permits, and so forth; 4 A list of inventory, fixtures, furniture, machinery, etc. 5 A list of current clients; and/or 6 Their current business, marketing, and advertising plans (if any).

Is it risky to buy an existing business?

Additionally, purchasing an existing business is not as risky as opening a brand new business. For instance, since existing businesses typically have verified customers, a network of professional contacts, and a financial history, it can make securing any necessary funding easier (e.g., business loans, investments, etc.).

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Definition of A Breach of Contract

  • In business law, a breach of contractoccurs when one or both parties fails to perform its duties that are outlined within the contract. Contract law aims to provide damages to the party that was harmed, and restore them to where they were before the breach occurred, or to a position as if the contract had been executed. In cases that a breach of co...
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What Are Some Examples of Business Disputes?

  • Business disputesare a common occurrence, and can come about for a variety of reasons. Whether a dispute involves a contract’s terms and conditions, or if it delves into business practices or billing, the dispute needs to be resolved. In some cases, a business’s reputation or financial security is at risk, and a speedy resolution is necessary. A business lawyer in your area …
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Importance of Buying and Selling A Business

  • Buying or selling a businessis often a monumental decision for all parties involved. There are several phases for each process of buying or selling, and a qualified business attorney can assist you through every step. Both the buyer and the seller must be fully prepared for each phase of the process in order to complete a successful purchase or sale of the business. Due diligence is ke…
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Contract Drafting and Review

  • A clearly written contract is essential for all business transactions. Without a precise contract, legal issues can arise for all parties involved. Contracts can be long, with a great deal of legal jargon that many people often skim over. It is important to have a contracts attorney review the content contained within the contract in order to avoid problems down the line. The terms and c…
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