Buying a Business in New York

Buying a business can be a worthwhile investment, but whether it is purchased by an individual or another company, the transaction is complicated.

Federal and New York 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". The process of due diligence uses Federal and New York guidelines to protect both parties. If these guidelines are not followed, a party may be found in breach of a legal duty. 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?

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 New York. Procedures may make buying a business more or less expensive than simply the market value of its assets.

How Can a Cortland Attorney Help?

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