Joint Ventures & Shareholders’ Agreements Solicitors

Whether you are an individual with big ambitions or a corporate entity with a solid strategy, we can work with you to identify the most appropriate structure for any investment or joint venture.

We are an independent law firm with the right balance of commercial pragmatism and expert legal knowledge to turn your blueprint for success into a robust legal framework.

Whether you wish to establish a limited company, LLP (Limited Liability Partnership) or any other form of trust or not-for-profit/charitable structure, we have the expertise and know-how to assist you in finding the right fit for you, with practical advice set out in an understandable no-nonsense way.

Our multi-industry expertise spans from professional services to hospitality and real estate and by working closely with tax specialists, we can ensure that whichever structure you adopt, it will be aligned with your objectives, whilst meeting statutory and regulatory compliance.

Joint Ventures 

Joint ventures can provide significant opportunities for a business of any size. The ability to launch new products, expand into new markets or aligning your business with another, that can help accelerate your current capabilities and be a catalyst for growth.

The purpose of the joint venture agreement is to establish the rights and obligations of the parties in relation to the joint venture, where each party may contribute their own resources to the venture in question, whether that be in the form of funding or skills.

A joint venture agreement ensures the company and its business is established and run in accordance with the parties' objectives, while setting out the responsibilities of the parties involved. It also sets out procedures for dealing with any difficulties which may arise. To be successful, a joint venture should benefit all the joint venture parties, catering to what may be quite different goals and responsibilities.

We provide comprehensive and bespoke advice, leveraging our experience with establishing such ventures for clients, as well as, in the case of some of our fee earners, having worked within joint venture environments themselves. While we take as much of a practical approach as possible, our advice includes adhering to industry-specific regulations, structuring business models and employment arrangements to ensure the joint venture agreement is fit for purpose.

Our aim is to make the process and execution of successful joint ventures straightforward for our clients. We balance the opportunity presented with the need to reduce risk through drafting robust joint venture agreements and supporting documentation, to protect your interests and investment. Our team has experience advising on joint ventures in a range of sectors including technology, general commercial, finance, real estate, food, pharmaceuticals and hospitality.

Joint venture solicitors: Expert legal advice on strategic partnerships

How our corporate and commercial solicitors can help

Our corporate and commercial solicitors have extensive experience in dealing with joint ventures and strategic partnerships. We can provide expert advice on all aspects of joint venture transactions, from structuring the venture to drafting and negotiating agreements.

Who we can help and how

Our services are tailored to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes and across various industries. Whether you are a startup exploring joint venture opportunities or an established company looking to expand through strategic partnerships, our solicitors can provide the legal and practical guidance and support you need.

Starting a business

Starting a new business can be an exciting but a challenging endeavour. Our joint venture solicitors can assist you in navigating the legal aspects of starting a business, including company formation, drafting articles of association and shareholders’ agreements, and advising on legal requirements and statutory compliance.

Finance

Raising finance can be challenging for businesses in any economic climate. 

With the highly competitive nature of equity financing, organisations need increasingly bespoke and innovative ways to raise finance beyond traditional bank debt. We understand that no two businesses are the same and what route works for one business may not work for another. 

Our team have great experience in assisting in the process of raising equity capital. We will work closely with you to develop an in-depth understanding of your business and objectives. Then, we will support you through the equity-raising journey from helping you identify the most appropriate form of finance for your business, through to final negotiations and implementation.

We offer a complete service to our clients. This ranges from identifying initial investment strategies and capital raises to complex shareholder and investment structures.

Regularly advising on complex transactions of varying sizes gives us a unique commercial perspective when dealing with matters, regardless of the industry sector. 

Joint ventures

Our team has extensive experience in dealing with joint ventures and can provide expert advice and guidance on all aspects of joint venture transactions, from structuring the venture to drafting and negotiating joint venture agreements all the way through to executing terms.

Partnership and shareholders agreements

We can assist in drafting and negotiating partnership and shareholders’ agreements to ensure that the rights and obligations of all parties involved are clearly defined and protected.

Patents and intellectual property

Intellectual property is often a valuable asset in joint ventures. Our solicitors can provide advice on protecting your intellectual property rights and ensuring that appropriate measures are in place to safeguard your interests when considering joint ventures or any other business relationships.

Terms and conditions of business

Our team can help you draft comprehensive and enforceable terms and conditions of business that protect your interests and ensure clarity in your joint venture relationships.

Legal Considerations for Joint Venture Agreements

Several legal considerations are pivotal when forming a joint venture, such as regulatory compliance, intellectual property rights, and dispute resolution mechanisms. Our team is proficient in identifying and addressing these considerations, ensuring that your joint venture operates within the legal framework and is equipped to handle any challenges or difficulties that may arise in the future.

Types of Joint Ventures

Joint ventures can take various forms, each with its unique characteristics and legal considerations. Whether it’s a contractual joint venture, a separate legal entity, or a partnership, our expert lawyers are adept at providing tailored advice and support, ensuring the chosen structure aligns with your business objectives and legal requirements.

Shareholder Rights & Responsibilities

Understanding and protecting shareholder rights and responsibilities is crucial in any joint venture. Our lawyers provide comprehensive advice on shareholders’ agreements, corporate governance, and fiduciary duties, ensuring that the rights of all shareholders’ are upheld and that the venture operates transparently and ethically.

Investment Lawyer Services

Securing investments and managing investor relations are integral components of a successful joint venture. Our Investment Lawyers offer a wealth of experience in investment law, guiding you through the legal aspects of securing funding, complying with financial regulations, and maintaining healthy investor relationships.

Benefits of Working with a Joint Venture Lawyer

Engaging a Joint Venture Lawyer from the outset can offer numerous benefits, including expert guidance on structuring the venture, drafting robust joint venture agreements, and addressing any potential legal issues proactively. Our lawyers at KaurMaxwell are committed to adding value to your venture, mitigating risks, and fostering a collaborative environment for all parties involved.

Why Choose KaurMaxwell for Joint Venture and Shareholders’ Agreements

Choosing KaurMaxwell means partnering with a team of lawyers who are not only experts in joint ventures, shareholder rights, and investment law but are also dedicated to your success. 

• Expertise & Recognition: Our Licensing experts are recognised leaders in their field, offering extensive knowledge across a wide range of industry sectors in the UK.
• Diverse & Comprehensive Expertise: The team at KaurMaxwell brings together diverse expertise in areas such as civil and commercial litigation, property law, employment, insolvency and restructuring law.
• Client-Centric Approach: At KaurMaxwell, we prioritise our clients’ needs, ensuring that their businesses are well-protected and positioned for commercial success.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the importance of a joint venture agreement?

A joint venture agreement is crucial as it outlines the rights, responsibilities, and obligations of each party, providing a legal framework for the operation of the joint venture and addressing potential disputes.

How can a lawyer assist in protecting shareholder rights?

A lawyer can assist in drafting comprehensive shareholders’ agreements, advising on corporate governance practices, and representing both majority or minority shareholders’ in any disputes or negotiations, ensuring their rights are protected.

Why should I consider a joint venture?

There are several reasons why considering a joint venture might be advantageous. It allows for shared resources, expertise, and risks. It can also provide access to new markets or technologies and enhance competitiveness.

Do I need a solicitor for a joint venture?

While not legally required, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a specialist joint venture solicitor. Joint ventures involve complex legal considerations, such as structuring the agreement, protecting intellectual property, and addressing potential conflicts.

What is a shareholders' agreement?

A shareholders' agreement is a legal document that outlines the rights and obligations of the shareholders’ in a company. It covers aspects such as ownership percentages, decision-making processes, corporate controls, dispute-resolution mechanisms, and exit strategies.

Why is it important to have appropriate legal agreements in place for a joint venture?

Having appropriate legal agreements in place ensures clarity, protection, and accountability for all parties involved in the joint venture. It helps prevent misunderstandings, reduces the risk of disputes, and provides a framework for decision-making and conflict resolution as well as dealing with unforeseen events.

How can I set up a joint venture?

Setting up a joint venture involves several steps. It starts with identifying a suitable partner, conducting due diligence, negotiating the terms of the joint venture agreement, and securing any necessary regulatory approvals. Seeking the assistance of a specialised corporate and commercial team is always advisable.

Is it possible to enter into a joint venture without a shareholders' agreement?

It is possible to enter into a joint venture without a shareholders' agreement. However, it is not recommended as it leaves the parties exposed to potential disputes and uncertainties. Having a shareholders' agreement in place ensures that the rights, obligations, and expectations of all shareholders are clearly defined.