Corporate law

Choosing the appropriate legal structure is an important first step in building a business. ATEH LAW assists entrepreneurs and businesses with Alberta and federal incorporations, including establishing the corporation and preparing the necessary organizational documents.

Our services may include incorporation, corporate name considerations, share structure and initial share issuances, organizational resolutions, director and officer appointments, corporate records and other post-incorporation matters.

We can also explain the legal differences between operating as a sole proprietorship, partnership or corporation, helping clients select a structure appropriate to their circumstances and business objectives.

For businesses intending to operate beyond Alberta, we can advise on the distinction between federal and provincial incorporation and related registration considerations.

Strong businesses benefit from clear rules governing the relationship between their owners. A well-drafted shareholder or partnership agreement can establish expectations before disagreements arise and provide mechanisms for dealing with significant changes in the business.

ATEH LAW prepares and reviews Unanimous shareholder, partnership and related ownership agreements addressing matters such as management and decision-making authority, voting rights, financing obligations, transfer and sale of ownership interests, admission of new owners, restrictions on transfers, dispute-resolution mechanisms and the departure, disability or death of an owner.

We work with clients to create agreements that reflect both the commercial realities of the business and the expectations of its owners.

Contracts form the foundation of most commercial relationships. Poorly drafted or misunderstood contractual terms can expose a business to unnecessary financial and legal risk.

ATEH LAW assists businesses with the drafting, review and negotiation of commercial agreements, with particular attention to obligations, payment provisions, liability, indemnities, termination rights, dispute resolution and other important contractual protections.

Services may include service agreements, independent contractor agreements, confidentiality and non-disclosure agreements, purchase and supply agreements, licensing arrangements and other commercial contracts.

We also review commercial leases for businesses considering office, retail, industrial or other commercial premises, helping clients understand important provisions relating to rent and additional charges, operating costs, renewal options, permitted use, insurance, maintenance obligations, assignment, guarantees, default and termination.

Buying or selling a business can involve significant legal, financial and operational considerations. Proper legal advice can help identify liabilities, protect the value of the transaction and ensure that the parties clearly understand what is being purchased or sold.

ATEH LAW assists purchasers and sellers with business purchase and sale transactions, including reviewing and negotiating letters of intent, purchase agreements and related closing documents.

Depending on the transaction, we can assist with asset purchases, share purchases, contractual due diligence, representations and warranties, conditions of closing, assignment of contracts and leases, restrictive covenants and other transaction documents.

Where tax, accounting, financing or specialized regulatory advice is required, we can work alongside the client’s accountant, lender and other professional advisers to help coordinate the transaction.

Good corporate governance helps businesses remain organized, compliant and prepared for future transactions, financing or ownership changes.

ATEH LAW assists corporations with maintaining appropriate corporate records and governance documentation, including annual resolutions, director and shareholder resolutions, changes involving directors and officers, share issuances and transfers, corporate record maintenance and other corporate changes.

We can also assist businesses with reviewing their governance structures and internal documentation as their operations expand.

For established companies, maintaining accurate corporate records can be particularly important when seeking financing, admitting new shareholders, selling the business or completing other significant transactions.

ATEH LAW aims to develop long-term relationships with business clients rather than assisting only when a problem arises. As your business develops, legal needs can evolve from incorporation and initial contracts to financing, leasing, employment arrangements, regulatory compliance, acquisitions and eventual succession or sale.

Our approach is practical, responsive and commercially focused. We seek to understand how your business operates, identify legal risks early and provide solutions that support your broader commercial objectives.

Starting, growing, buying or selling a business?
Speak with ATEH LAW about protecting your business and structuring your next transaction.