Buying a Business in California

Purchasing a business can be an beneficial investment for both individuals and companies. However, the transaction is much more complicated than a traditional purchase.

Purchasing a business occasionally involves laws concerning mergers, acquisitions, negotiations or securities exchanges. These fields are governed by California and Federal law.

What Parts of the Business Am I Buying?

If a party wants to direct business operations, the best way is to acquire a right called "control". With control of a business, the party gains all assets and the customer base of the business, plus it also assumed the company's debts. To make his decision, a purchaser will want a complete picture of the financial position of the business. Through a process called "due diligence", a company's financials become clear. In the process of due diligence, Federal and California guidelines are used to inform both parties. If there is a violation from these guidelines, one party may be held legally accountable. Following the procedure of due diligence faithfully, however, leads to a better informed decision about the purchase of the business. It can also help the ownership transfer to go more smoothly.

How Much Will the Business Cost?

Control of a business is sold for an amount that is necessary for a party to acquire an ownership stake. The value of the business property and the type of business factor in to determine the exact price. There are particular laws in California that dictate procedure for how the right of control of a company can be transferred and modified, and these procedures may make buying the business cheaper or more expensive, depending on a variety of factors.

How Can a Auburn Attorney Help?

In California, the law poses requirements for a party purchasing a business to fulfill. An attorney experienced in California law practicing in Auburn can help you comply with these laws and acquire control of the business you want to buy as cheaply as possible.