Business Valuation

Frequently we encounter clients that own (or whose spouses own) businesses that need to be valued to reach an equitable division of property in their divorce. These businesses have included

• Medical and dental practices
• Medical parts distributors
• National employment recruiter
• Small tool manufacturer
• Commercial building construction company
• Mortgage companies
• Hair salons
• Taverns and restaurants
• Kennel
• Pet and pet supply retailer
• Insecticide manufacturer and distributor
• Orthopedic parts distributor
• Auto dealers
• Taverns, bar & grills
• Restaurants
• Real estate holding companies—commercial and apartments
• Contract research organization—animal testing
• Pawn shop
• Beer distributors
• Heavy equipment distributor
• Package and labeling manufacturer and distributor
• Drywall tape manufacturer and distributor
• Condo association management company
• Pharmaceutical manufacturer and distributer
• Jewelry store-retail
• Other types of manufacturers, distributors and franchisees

While we are not business appraisers, we regularly work with qualified appraisers to value businesses and to critique the other party’s business appraisals, or in some cases we work together with opposing counsel to develop a “joint business appraisal.”

However we arrive at the figures, the valuation of a business is almost always a complex and time consuming process, often requiring us to gather large numbers of documents and substantial information about a business so that the appraiser can arrive at a well-reasoned opinion of value. Sometimes the appraiser will not only value the business itself, but may also be called upon to value a controlling or minority share of a business, to assess the growth of the business during the marriage, or to address other questions needing to be answered. We work closely with the appraiser to make certain the appraisal is based upon material facts and that the appraiser has considered weaknesses in the appraisal opinion and feels comfortable justifying his/her position in court. As a result of working closely with the appraiser, we are frequently able to arrive at an agreed upon value with the opposing party, saving many hours of deposition and courtroom time.

At Paule, Camazine & Blumenthal, our experienced family law attorneys have worked with experts and challenged opposing experts with respect to a large variety of businesses. For any questions about these issues, please contact one of our attorneys.

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