Preparing a business for sale three to five years before an expected exit gives owners time to improve transferable value, correct legal and financial problems, reduce dependence on the founder, and prepare for buyer due diligence. Starting early can also expand the pool of potential buyers and prevent issues discovered during negotiations from reducing the…
Artificial intelligence can help small businesses work more efficiently, but its use can raise legal questions involving confidentiality, privacy, intellectual property, employment decisions, and accuracy. Massachusetts businesses do not need to avoid AI, but they should establish clear rules for how employees use it and when human review is required. A practical AI policy can…
WORCESTER, MA, August 20, 2026 – Seder & Chandler is pleased to announce that nine attorneys were recognized for legal excellence across 15 specialty practice areas in the 2027 edition of the Best Lawyers in America®. Two attorneys were recognized as Lawyers of the Year, an additional recognition awarded to individual lawyers with the highest…
Private equity firms are showing growing interest in family-owned businesses—and for good reason. These companies often offer long-term value, deep community roots, and significant untapped growth potential. For family business owners, welcoming outside investment can provide access to capital, operational support, and a path to succession planning. But private equity transactions also come with unique…
Restrictive covenants in Massachusetts property deeds are legal conditions that limit how a property can be used. These restrictions may control building types, land use, or other aspects of ownership, and they remain attached to the property over time. Buyers must comply with existing covenants even if they did not create them. Understanding these restrictions…
In Massachusetts, a buyer or seller can back out of a real estate purchase agreement only under specific conditions, usually tied to contract contingencies or legal defects. Common reasons include failed inspections, financing issues, appraisal gaps, or title problems. Outside those situations, backing out may expose the party to financial penalties or legal claims. Understanding…
Creditors’ rights in business bankruptcy are the legal entitlements of a lender to recover funds from a debtor who has filed for Chapter 7 or Chapter 11 relief. These rights are determined by the priority of the claim, the type of collateral held, and the specific bankruptcy chapter filed. While an automatic stay halts immediate…
Equitable distribution in Massachusetts divorce means the court divides marital property in a way that is fair, but not necessarily equal. Judges consider factors such as income, contributions to the marriage, and future financial needs when allocating assets and debts. Property is not automatically split 50/50. Understanding how equitable distribution works helps spouses prepare for…
Selling a business in Massachusetts can result in very different tax outcomes depending on how the transaction is structured. Asset sales and stock or ownership interest sales are taxed differently, and the allocation of the purchase price can significantly affect capital gains and ordinary income exposure. Sellers may also have opportunities to defer taxes through…
An IRS business audit can be time-consuming, but understanding the process can help your business respond with confidence. Whether your company is selected because of reporting discrepancies, unusual deductions, or random review, knowing what the IRS will examine is essential. This guide explains why business audits occur, the different types of IRS audits, the documents…
