Buying a Business in California

Buying a business can be an advantageous investment for both individuals and companies. However, the transaction is much more complicated than a normal purchase.

There are Federal and California laws concerning mergers, acquisitions, negotiations and securities exchange that may impact the purchase of a business.

What Parts of the Business Am I Buying?

The purchase of a business in Napa is actually the buying of a right called "control". With this right, a party can direct business operations as it sees fit, it acquires ownership of business assets, and it assumes liability for all business debts. In order to protect the interests of all parties, there must be an accurate and complete picture of the financial position of the business. This picture of the company's financials is gained through a process known as "due diligence". In the process of due diligence, Federal and California guidelines are used to inform both parties. If there is a deviation from these guidelines, one party may be held legally accountable. Following the process 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. The process for how the right of control can be transferred or modified is defined by specific laws in California. Procedures may make buying a business more or less expensive than simply the market value of its assets.

How Can a Napa Attorney Help?

There are unique requirements in California that a party purchasing a business must fulfill. In Napa, an attorney knowledgeable in California law can inform you about the peculiarities of your investment and outline the cheapest way for you to gain control.