Buying a Business in Missouri

Investing in a business can be profitable for companies and private parties. The transaction can be complicated, however.

There are particular laws in Missouri and the US that concern negotiations, mergers, acquisitions and securities exchanges. You may need to consider how these laws impact your situation before you buy a business.

What Parts of the Business Am I Buying?

The purchase of a business in Boone County is actually the purchasing 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. A complete picture of the financial position of the business is important for the purchaser to make his decision. This picture is acquired through a process called "due diligence". Through due diligence, federal and Missouri guidelines are used to inform both parties, and there may be legal consequences for not following these guidelines properly. 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?

The price of a business depends on the value of the ownership stake that is necessary to exert control, and this in turn is determined somewhat by the value of the business property and the type of business. The procedure for how the right of control can be transferred or modified is defined by particular laws in Missouri. Procedures may make buying a business more or less expensive than simply the market value of its assets.

How Can a Boone County Attorney Help?

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