Jager Smith's Business, Tax, and Estate Planning group is distinguished not only by its comprehensive knowledge of corporate law, but also by its expertise in guiding companies through every phase of the business lifecycle. More than 30 years of hands-on experience across a wide spectrum of industries informs our perspective on our clients’ legal issues, tax challenges, and day-to-day business decisions.

Our attorneys will spend many hours on site with you, learning from the ground up about your business operations. This in-depth knowledge of how your particular company functions, together with our broad-based experience, enables us to guide you through any legal or business challenge your company may face.

From the Beginning...

Often, our relationship with business clients starts before the formal establishment of their companies. Choosing an organizational structure for your company requires an understanding of all the options, as well as in-depth insight into the short- and long-term legal, tax, and business implications. As we discuss the issues relevant to your particular situation, we will help you weigh the benefits and trade-offs of various business entities, including:

General ("C") corporation
Subchapter ("S") corporation
Professional corporation (PCs)
Limited liability companies (LLCs)

Through Growth and Long-Term Success...

As your business continues to grow and thrive, our attorneys can help you successfully negotiate the many complex legal and financial challenges faced in managing and funding your business, including:

Employment agreements
Confidentiality and non-compete agreements
Recapitalizations
Voting trusts
Asset purchases and sales
Mergers and acquisitions
Commercial loans
Intellectual property licensing
Executive and deferred compensation agreements

To Final Disposition of Your Assets...

Many of our business clients also come to us for estate planning services. As a business owner, you should have an estate plan that incorporates your goals for the disposition of your company following your death, disability, or withdrawal from the company. If you wish to pass on your business assets to family members or other beneficiaries, we can help you draft a business succession plan that ensures a smooth transition, without significant disruptions in normal operations or burdensome tax consequences for the next generation of owners.

If you wish to exit your business, Jager Smith can also help you draft and implement a buy-sell agreement. To ensure the agreement is adequately funded, our attorneys will work closely with your company’s insurance advisors.