Business Owners

For some, a “simple” estate plan is sufficient, but for many families who own businesses, have investments, or have family overseas, expert guidance is necessary.  Families should consider tax-efficient and creditor protective strategies, such as trusts and corporate structures to help protect their assets, transfer wealth smoothly to loved ones, and leave a lasting legacy for future generations. 

We construct estate plans that achieve inheritance and business succession objectives in the most tax efficient manner, while minimizing risk of future litigation and fees.  We emphasize the balance between family harmony and the operational longevity of the family business.  

We also dare to have the difficult conversations between family members, who are often fellow shareholders, in respect of their spouses and any family law or shareholder agreements that need to be implemented to protect the family business.

Solutions may include:

• Single and multiple Will planning;
• Alter Ego and Joint Partner Trust planning; 
• Settlement of Family Trusts and holding corporations as part of estate freezes;
• Shareholder agreements;
• Corporate reorganizations and income-splitting;
• Pre-nuptial marriage / cohabitation agreements; and
• Charitable giving and the establishment of private foundations.