Selling a Business

If you are selling a business, we will work with you, as well as your accountant or financial advisor, to help achieve the best net return. We are experienced commercial lawyers with an intricate knowledge of the business scene on the northern beaches and surrounds.

Usually, the sale of the business needs to happen quickly and with the least disruption to the daily operation of the business. We can assist you in identifying what needs to be done, negotiating the terms of the sale and closing the deal.

We can also help determine whether any intellectual property rights should be excluded from, or included in, the sale, as well as determining if any protection needs to be created for those rights.

Do I need a lawyer for the sale of my business?

If the business is valuable to you, as we imagine it would be, then you certainly want to ensure that when you sell the business, you receive the full value and you do not end up with any unexpected liabilities. 

Our role is to assist you in achieving that result, along with meeting all your legal obligations.

Can I just get my accountant to handle the sale of a business?

Strictly speaking, an accountant is not permitted to advise, draw documents and effect the sale of your business.  Only a qualified lawyer can be involved in the process of drawing contracts for clients seeking to sell a business.

Should I have an accountant when selling my business?

We strongly recommend that you engage your accountant in the process of the sale of the business.  We will work with your accountant to identify specific issues relating to the business and its sale, particularly tax and accounting-related issues. 

What do I need to provide to have the Contract for Sale of Business drawn?

This really depends on the size and complexity of your business. 

We will need all the general details, such as who is the owner of the business, the business name, the assets of the business, any special licenses or franchises and so on.  We can provide you with a more comprehensive list during an initial discussion.