Photo of Peter A. Mahler

Peter A. Mahler is a litigator focusing on business divorce cases involving dissolution and other disputes among co-­owners of closely held business entities, such as limited liability companies, corporations, and partnerships. Peter represents both control and non-control owners, often involving family-owned businesses. Frequently counseling business owners prior to litigation, he advises them of their rights and also assists in designing and negotiating an amicable separation between parties. Peter’s counsel helps avoid litigation by means of a buy-out, sale, or division of business assets.

 

 

Family-owned businesses grab more than their fair share of business divorce matters. In his new book called The Principles of Family Business Law, Professor Benjamin Means examines the uncomfortable fit between, on the one hand, standard economic theory and law based on the “rational actor” seeking to maximize wealth and, on the other hand, the idiosyncratic dynamics of family-owned firms.

Continue Reading A New Framework for the Family Business Enterprise: A Review of Benjamin Means’ “The Principles of Family Business Law”

“Except as otherwise set forth herein” is a common proviso in agreements of all sorts. It can provide clarity. It also can cause dispute, as in the case highlighted in this post.

Continue Reading A Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing: Shareholder Agreement’s “Except as Otherwise Set Forth Herein” Hands Control of Famed Restaurant to Minority Shareholders