Marxman has extensive experience in supporting family businesses in every legal area an entrepreneur may encounter. From thinking along about succession to the next generation, to thinking about the company's organisational structure and culture. We look at your organisation from the company's perspective, but with an eye for the family.
At Marxman, we support families with businesses from start to finish. If a company is still in the scale-up phase and especially benefits from a legal sparring partner or guidance in the drafting of commercial contracts, to guidance in the transfer of the company to the next generation and everything that comes with it. In doing so, we keep a sharp eye on the (emotional) interests for the company, the owners and, of course, the family. If necessary, we cooperate with various advisers who have expertise in (family) dynamics that play a role in a family business.
At Marxman, we understand that a family business is different from a non-family business. The dynamics are different. There is a business, a family and the owners. The same people may play a role in these three systems, but often not everyone is involved in each system. For example, by no means every family member is (operationally) active in the business, and ownership and control are regularly separated.
In addition, there may be an external director or investor who is not a family member, but has influence on the day-to-day management or strategic direction. Conversely, it is not unusual for a father or mother not to have a formal role within the company, but to express ideas or expectations at the kitchen table regarding the management of the business.
The question is how these three systems are organised in such a way that they reinforce each other, and how the legal reality remains in line with the actual relationships and the wishes of the family, the owners and the company. This requires legal advice that is not only legally sharp, but also has an eye for family dynamics and the long-term consequences of choices.
This is not only reflected in business succession, but also in the design of governance. Also at operational level, it is important that structures, roles and agreements are in line with the values, vision and mission of the family and the company. This affects the cooperation with suppliers and customers, but also how employees are treated. In addition, there are all kinds of interesting (partly fiscal) schemes that can apply to family members in the company.
At Marxman, we offer advice and guidance in every legal area. For a number of topics, we have elaborated our approach below. Would you like to exchange views with us? Then please contact us without obligation.
We understand that succession, once it comes up, will be one of the most important moments within your business. Therefore, we set out below how we at Marxman assist family businesses during such a process.
At Marxman, we understand that a family business is more than a business. It is a story, a legacy, a future. When the time comes to think about transfer, sale or collaboration, you want it to be done carefully and with respect. Our M&A team will guide you step by step, keeping both business and personal interests in mind.
Why a separate approach for family businesses?
At Marxman, we understand that good governance within a family business is more than setting up formal structures. Governance is about clarity, harmony and future-proofing. It is about creating a foundation where business and family ties reinforce, not hinder, each other. When roles, responsibilities and decision-making are clearly arranged, peace is created in the organisation and room for growth. We guide family businesses in setting up or honing governance structures that fit your family's culture, values and ambitions. Below you can read how Marxman does this and why it deserves extra attention.
Why governance at family businesses deserves extra attention
We have experience in: