Buying or selling a business requires careful attention to what is being transferred, which obligations remain with the seller, and what must happen before closing. Coast Counsel represents business owners, buyers, and investors in business acquisitions and sales throughout California.

Attorney Michael Muellerleile combines more than 25 years of legal experience with a JD/MBA from Pepperdine University to help clients evaluate terms, negotiate agreements, and work through the details of a transaction.

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Legal Assistance From Initial Terms Through Closing
 

Coast Counsel can assist with:
 

• Letters of intent and confidentiality agreements

• Asset purchase and equity purchase agreements

• Legal due diligence and document review

• Identification of purchased assets and assumed liabilities

• Assignment of contracts and commercial leases

• Required third-party consents

• Seller financing and promissory notes

• Transition services and consulting agreements

• Closing documents and coordination

Define What You Are Buying - or Selling
 

The purchase price is only one part of a business transaction. The agreement also needs to address the assets included, liabilities assumed, outstanding customer obligations, deposits, intellectual property, and the conditions to closing.

For buyers, the legal review focuses on understanding what will transfer and identifying obligations and risks. For sellers, it focuses on clearly defining the transfer, payment terms, continuing responsibilities, and potential exposure after closing.

Plan for a Practical Transition
 

A successful closing may depend on landlord approval, assignment of important contracts, licensing requirements, or cooperation during a transition period.
 

Coast Counsel helps identify these issues early and document the parties’ responsibilities. We can coordinate with your accountant, business broker, lender, and other advisers as appropriate.
 

Getting Started
 

Provide any proposed letter of intent or purchase agreement, a brief description of the business, the proposed transaction structure, and your anticipated timeline. We can then discuss the scope of legal assistance and fees.
 

Discuss Your Business Transaction
 

If you are considering buying or selling a business, contact Coast Counsel at 949-706-1470 or info@coastcounsel.com.