Buying a Business in Georgia

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

Federal and Georgia law concerning mergers, acquisitions, negotiations and securities exchange sometimes come into play during the purchase of a business

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 acquires all assets and the customer base of the business, plus it also assumed the company's 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 Georgia guidelines are used to inform both parties. If there is a deviation from these guidelines, one party may be held legally accountable. However, the best informed decision about whether to buy the business can only be obtained through obedience to the due diligence process. Added benefits also include a smoother transition once the business is purchased.

How Much Will the Business Cost?

How much a business will cost depends on the type of business, how much ownership stake you need to assert control, and the value of the business property. The process for how the right of control can be transferred or modified is defined by specific laws in Georgia. Procedures may make buying a business more or less expensive than simply the market value of its assets.

How Can a Clarke County Attorney Help?

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