Family Offices

The dynamics of a family running a portfolio of businesses and investments are different from those of a corporation or a private equity firm. Since the firm’s inception, Freeborn has worked with family offices to address their particular needs.

The dynamics of a family running a portfolio of businesses and investments are different from those of a corporation or a private equity firm. Since the firm’s inception, Freeborn has worked with family offices to address their particular needs.

From inception of the family office through ongoing investment activities and continued wealth accumulation, our attorneys provide the following services to family offices:

  • Create family office structures that are tax-efficient and aligned with the family’s goals
  • Design and establish incentive compensation programs for family office employees
  • Liaise closely with existing, trusted professional service providers and family advisors
  • Assist in the acquisition and sale of businesses, joint ventures and acquisitions of minority interests
  • Review and help undertake investments in real estate, venture capital, investment funds, and alternative assets
  • Advise on boards of directors and corporate governance matters

A family’s assets and activities must be protected through thoughtful preparation and periodic evaluation of changing needs. To this end, our team can:

  • Maximize the efficiency of wealth transfer to future generations through careful estate planning
  • Support the family’s philanthropic goals through tax-advantaged giving and donor-advised funds
  • Provide counsel in important operational areas such as finance and employment
  • Secure and defend important assets, such as patents and trademarks
  • Advise in the selection of insurance policies and creation of indemnification agreements
  • Minimize tax liabilities in current operations and transactions
  • Guide decisions relating to financing, leasing, insurance, and tax for aircraft, yachts, automobiles, art, and other important assets

Sometimes challenges arise when family members work together to manage their many business interests. Freeborn has significant and favorable experience in addressing and resolving disputes that arise within families, helping them return their focus to value-creating activities.