Business valuation can become contested in many different situations. Shareholder Agreements, Operating Agreements and Partnership Agreements often contain mechanisms for involuntary transfer upon the occurrence of any number of circumstances including but not limited to death of a shareholder, termination of employment or retirement.  In such matters, it is often in the best interest of the prospective purchaser to interpret an agreement or process set forth therein in a manner which most benefits the remaining owners and the company to the detriment of the separating owner; in other words reduce the value of the separating owner’s interest as much as possible in an effort to save money for the majority.

The language of a business agreement, if there is one, is often less than clear. If there is writing, even the clearest expression can be subject to challenge and interpretation.  Disputes in business valuation can become a battle of experts, but advocacy and leverage also play a role.  Understanding the business, the parties, the marketability of various assets, valuation methodologies and the interplay between business valuation and governance is essential to achieving the best result possible for a party.

AMM has the depth of knowledge and experience to secure appropriate evidence bearing on valuation, negotiate the resolution of a valuation dispute and, where necessary, litigate the underlying elements related to value.