EXPERT LEGAL ADVICE from normal people
Business Services
Navigating the buying and selling of businesses can be overwhelming. The stakes are high, the complexities numerous, and the risks considerable. That's why you need a team of experienced solicitors with a deep understanding of business transactions and commitment to providing personalised guidance.
Our Approach
At Howard & Over, we understand the challenges and opportunities that can arise within the realm of business transactions. We know that each business transaction is unique, and we tailor our approach to meet the specific needs and objectives of our clients. From small start-up’s to large corporations, whether you're looking to sell your business or acquire a new one, our dedicated team is here to guide you through every stage of the process.
Buying & Selling a Business
Whether you’re buying or selling a business, we will conduct thorough due diligence, negotiate favourable contractual terms and report to you in plain English, all whilst working to facilitate a smooth and successful sale or purchase.
With Howard & Over by your side, you can rest assured that we'll thoroughly assess your situation, provide expert advice, and ensure that your interests are protected, to help you achieve your desired outcome.
Agricultural Services
From land acquisitions to estate planning, there are many agricultural challenges to consider whether you’re a farmer, landowner or small holder. That’s why you need a team who understand the unique needs and challenges of such matters to ensure your agricultural affairs are handled with the utmost care.
Our Approach
At Howard & Over, with experience in agricultural based transactions, our dedicated team is here to provide you with expert guidance and support to help you achieve your goals and protect your interests. We know that every agricultural operation is unique, and we tailor our approach to meet your specific needs and objectives.
Buying, Selling & Developing Agricultural Land & Property
As a Devon-based firm, we offer extensive knowledge and experience in agricultural conveyancing. Our team has a proven track record of handling complex agricultural conveyancing matters, whether you're buying, selling, or transferring agricultural land or property. We will ensure that the transaction proceeds smoothly and efficiently.
With our deep understanding of the local landscape, we're well-equipped to assist you with:
Sales or Purchases of Land and Property:
Whether you're expanding your farming operation or looking to sell agricultural land, we can help. We'll provide you with expert advice and guidance to ensure that your interests are protected throughout the sale or purchase process.
Development of Agricultural Land:
As demand for residential and commercial development continues to grow, the development of agricultural land presents unique legal challenges. We'll work closely with you to navigate the likes of options to purchase, conditional contracts, and pre-emption agreements.
Farming Partnership Agreements
When it comes to a farming business, establishing a strong and legally sound partnership is essential for success and to help prevent discord at a later date. It is important to establish clear rights, responsibilities, and expectations among partners. That's why we offer comprehensive legal assistance alongside your accountant’s advice in the creation of farming partnerships, including the preparation of partnership agreements.
A farming partnership agreement outlines the terms and conditions of the partnership, including:
Roles and Responsibilities:
Clearly defining the roles and responsibilities of each partner to ensure that everyone understands their duties within the partnership.
Partnership Property:
Working alongside your accountant to determine which properties should become partnership properties.
Decision-Making Processes:
Establishing decision-making procedures to ensure that important decisions are made efficiently and in the best interest of the partnership.
Dispute Resolution Mechanisms:
Including dispute resolution mechanisms in the partnership agreement will aid partners in addressing conflicts and disagreements in a timely and constructive manner.
Appointing New Partners and Departing Partners’ Shares:
It is important to consider how new Partners can be appointed, and also what happens to a departing or deceased Partners’ share.
Whether you're forming a new partnership or updating an existing agreement, our team will work closely with you to ensure that the agreement meets your specific needs.
Succession Planning
Succession planning is crucial for farming families where the assets are often tied to the land and the business is deeply rooted in family heritage, to ensure the smooth transition of assets and responsibilities from one generation to the next. Whether you're planning for the future or navigating the complexities of succession, our dedicated team is here to guide you through the process.
Our team can assist you with:
Estate Planning:
We'll work closely with you to develop a comprehensive estate plan that reflects your wishes and protects your assets. This includes the preparation of Wills, Trusts, and Lasting Powers of Attorney to ensure that your affairs are in order and your legacy is protected. Click here for more information surrounding our Wills, Trusts, and Lasting Powers of Attorney services.
Tax Planning:
We'll help you take advantage of tax exemptions and reliefs available to farming families, such as Agricultural Property Relief and Business Property Relief. By structuring your estate appropriately, we can minimise tax liabilities and maximise the value of your assets for future generations.
Fair Division of Assets:
We'll work with you to ensure that your assets are divided fairly among your family members while considering factors such as each individual's contributions to the business and their future needs.
We understand the importance of preserving your family's legacy for future generations. That's why we're committed to providing you with the expert guidance and support you need to navigate succession planning process with confidence.
