At Wood and Morgan, we have been at the forefront of developing, implementing, and refining dental practice purchase agreements for over three decades. The experience and dedication of our dental business attorneys make us a valuable partner for dentists in these transitions.
The Need for Specialized Agreements in Dentistry
In the dental industry, a standard form of business purchase agreement often falls short of addressing the specific needs of dentists. Whether you are buying or selling a dental practice, you need a written, enforceable contract that thoroughly protects your interests.
Our dental lawyers understand how to craft these agreements to benefit your practice.
Tackling Industry-Specific Challenges
We have drafted agreements that have become the standard in the dental industry, addressing issues such as restrictive covenants, uncompleted and redo dental work, transition periods, referral sources, and complexities involving medical and insurance plans. Our agreements also handle accounts receivable collection, a key aspect of dental practice transactions.
Our Approach to Dental Practice Purchase Agreements
Recognizing that every dental practice transition is unique, we provide each client with a personal, hands-on approach. Our commitment to understanding and addressing the individual needs of each dentist ensures that every aspect of the transaction is carefully considered and managed.
Legal Aspects of Dental Acquisitions
We have honed our experience over decades at Wood and Morgan, making us uniquely qualified to guide dentists through this process. From drafting a letter of intent to managing post-acquisition legalities, our firm ensures a seamless transition, whether you're buying or selling a dental practice.
Letter of Intent
Acquiring a dental practice begins with issuing a Letter of Intent (LOI). This document, while not legally binding, sets the stage for negotiations, outlining the major terms of the proposed deal. The LOI serves as a step in clarifying the intentions of both parties, paving the way for a formal purchase agreement.
Our attorneys at Wood and Morgan assist in crafting LOIs that accurately reflect the intentions and terms favorable to our clients, laying a solid foundation for the acquisition process.
Purchase Agreement
The heart of any dental practice acquisition is the Purchase Agreement. This legal document details the transaction's terms, including the purchase price, assets involved, representations, warranties, and conditions for closing.
Our team's can review, draft, and negotiate this agreement, ensuring it aligns with our clients' interests. We focus on addressing specific dental industry concerns such as patient record transfers, employment agreements, and regulatory compliance, crafting an agreement that comprehensively covers all aspects of the practice transition.
Due Diligence
Due diligence is a phase where the buyer verifies the seller's representations about the practice. It involves reviewing financial records, patient records, leases, employee agreements, and regulatory compliance.
At Wood and Morgan, we collaborate closely with dental-specific CPAs and other professionals to conduct thorough due diligence, ensuring that our clients make informed decisions based on accurate and comprehensive data.
Transfer of Assets
Transferring the assets of a dental practice is a complex process, requiring detailed legal documentation.
Our role includes:
- Reviewing and managing leases.
- Obtaining patient consent for record transfers.
- Ensuring compliance with relevant laws.
We draft Asset Purchase Agreements and other necessary documents to ensure a smooth transfer of all practice assets.
Real Estate
In cases where the dental practice's real estate is part of the transaction, our attorneys handle the real estate aspects separately, evaluating those on their own merits.
We conduct title searches, review leases, and negotiate and document real estate transactions, ensuring that our clients' investments are sound and legally protected.
Licenses and Permits
Acquiring a dental practice involves transferring various licenses and permits. Our team at Wood and Morgan navigates these requirements, assisting in the application and transfer of medical licenses, DEA registrations, business licenses, and other necessary permits, ensuring that the practice operates legally and smoothly under new ownership.
Closing
The closing process is where all aspects of the acquisition culminate. Our attorneys are heavily involved, reviewing all purchase contracts, employment agreements, and other documents, ensuring every detail is in place, and protecting our client's interests.
We manage the finalization of asset transfers, coordinate document signatures and notarizations, and oversee the disbursement of funds.
Post-Acquisition Legal Counsel
Even after the acquisition is complete, our role continues. We provide ongoing legal counsel to address any issues that may arise post-acquisition, such as drafting buy-sell agreements, reviewing ownership structure changes, and ensuring ongoing legal compliance.
Our commitment to our clients extends beyond the transaction, offering continuous support as their practices grow and evolve.
Practice Valuation
An essential part of the acquisition process is the valuation of the dental practice. We work closely with dental-specific CPAs and valuation experts to provide a thorough analysis of the practice's worth. This valuation considers financials, market factors, and qualitative aspects like goodwill and brand recognition, ensuring our clients make well-informed investment decisions.
At Wood and Morgan, we offer comprehensive legal services tailored to the unique needs of the dental industry. With our extensive experience and deep understanding of dental practice acquisitions, our dental attorneys ensure that our clients handle these transitions smoothly and successfully.
Our goal is to protect your interests at every stage of the process, providing legal guidance and support from initial intent to post-acquisition.
The Wood and Morgan Advantage
We believe in developing long-term relationships with our clients. This enduring partnership means our clients can access trusted advisors throughout their careers, not just during a single transaction.
Leveraging Reputation and Relationships
Our firm leverages its reputation and relationships within the dental industry to achieve the best possible outcomes for our clients. With over three decades of experience, we have established a network and a level of industry knowledge that is unparalleled.
A Proud History of Supporting Dentists
Since our founding in 1984, we have supported the dental community. Our long history in this field is a testament to our commitment and expertise.
Contact Our Dental Practice Acquisition Lawyers Today
When buying or selling a dental practice, the stakes are high. With Wood and Morgan, you gain a partner with decades of experience and dedication in dental practice transactions.
Our tailored approach and comprehensive legal and business support ensure that your interests are protected and your practice transition is smooth and successful.
If you're considering buying or selling a dental practice, contact Wood and Morgan to ensure you have the right support and experience on your side. Contact us at (800) 499-1474 today.