Business Structures and Joint Ventures

In the diverse markets in which we operate, it is common for businesses formed by a group of individuals and/or companies to have a variety of purposes, from commercial business ventures to charitable ones. It is important that such ventures are properly constituted and documented – in terms of the structure of the venture and the relationship between the parties – to ensure that any future disputes or disagreements can be more easily resolved by reference to the agreed documentation.

Our corporate specialists understand that the objectives of each business are different and pride themselves on their willingness to listen to our clients in order to fully understand their aims and requirements before advising.

Our corporate and commercial team assist in the formation of any business, whether it be a company or partnership, and draft bespoke documents to constitute the venture, which can include:

• Articles of Association;
• Shareholders’ Agreements;
• Loan Agreements;
• Joint Venture or Collaboration Agreements; and/or
• Partnership Agreements.

The above documents establish and govern the: management of the venture; distribution of the profits, losses and capital; exit strategies; death or retirement of a party; sale of a party’s share of the business; and resolution of disagreements during decision-making processes. The documents are specifically tailored to the particular venture, including the contributing parties’ requirements and any other issues which the client or we feel should be addressed.

Whilst it is prudent to have these constitutional documents drawn up from the outset, we appreciate that it is not always possible to envisage medium to long-terms plans. Our corporate and commercial team can therefore advise on, draft and implement any of the above documents at any time (but preferably before the occurrence of a dispute).

Our corporate and commercial team often collaborates with our employment, commercial real estate and private client teams (the latter to help you plan your exit strategy and protect your legacy) and external tax advisers, where appropriate, to place you in the best position in terms of developing the business and/ or succession planning.

Should your business structure involve an international element, our team has a wealth of experience to undertake international corporate and commercial work.

To talk to one of our corporate solicitors in confidence, call us today on 01895 207264. Alternatively, you can send an email to corporate@ibblaw.co.uk.