Brian A. Ripley

Business Law

Offering Expert Guidance

Whatever stage of business, my clients find that having a trusted legal advisor is an invaluable resource that provides peace of mind. Businesses continually change. The laws evolve, employees come and go, demand ebbs and flows. As a business lawyer, I help my clients gracefully deal with these inevitable changes.

My legal services include guiding business owners every step of the way. To get up and running, I help new owners select the right type of business entity, and analyze the risks involved. Focus then turns to providing an “operating manual” that shows the client how to respond quickly and effectively when legal problems arise.

Proactive business planning is far preferable to reactive management, and far less costly in the long run. As a litigator for many years, I have a deep understanding about how legal protection breaks down over time. If your company has vulnerable areas, I am constantly on the alert for ways to fine tune your legal instruments so that your exposure will be less likely to break down. I do this by regularly reviewing and adjusting your contracts, leases and other legal instruments. That way, problems that arise are less like a tsunami and more like a ripple on a smooth pond.

Business legal services include:

• Business Entity Selection – LLC’s & Corporations
• Corporate Compliance & Governance
• Business Succession Planning & Implementation
• Business Policies & Procedures
• Buy-Sell Agreements
• Risk Assessment & Management
• Professional Corporations
• Commercial Real Estate Issues

Real Estate Law: For Business and Property Owners

Empowering Clients Every Step of the Way

I provide ongoing advice and guidance to owners of commercial and residential real estate, real estate investors, property management companies and developers throughout the Bay Area. This includes helping clients evaluate and understand the real estate options and issues related to their specific interests.

My services may involve assisting in the preparation or analysis of leases, providing guidance on the purchase of commercial real estate, evaluating the suitability of commercial tenants for an owner’s building or office complex, and analysis the potential risks of a specific real estate transaction.

In our consultations, I’ll discuss the various scenarios and talk in-depth about long and short-term consequences, providing clear and accurate information to enable sound and thoughtful decisions. I pride myself in translating real estate law into everyday language so that clients understand their choices at every turn.

Forty years of legal experience has taught me that when clients are empowered with, and fully comprehend, the full range of available options, they have the best chance of maximizing their opportunities for the strategic growth and long term success.

Your Legal Journey: A Comprehensive Process Focused on Your Goals

How it works

1. Risk Assessment & Client Education

Your journey begins with an in-depth conversation about your needs, goals, and risk tolerance. This initial assessment ensures the legal solutions provided align with your priorities. Throughout the process, we strive to provide you the information you need to make informed decisions to protect your future.

2. Protecting Your Assets

A strong asset protection strategy involves multiple layers of defense. Here’s what you can expect:

• Business Entity Creation: Structuring your business to limit exposure, protect your personal assets, and optimize your tax benefits.
• Contract Drafting & Review: Ensuring your contracts are written to protect your best interests and limit liability.
• Insurance & Liability Protections: Getting professional advice on insurance options and strategies to limit risks and mitigate losses.
• Investments Protection: Understanding the legal implications of your investments to prevent potential issues down the line.
• Homestead Exemption: Protecting your home from creditors.

3. Succession Planning

Planning for the future is essential for business. Succession planning helps ensure your interests are protected despite unexpected future circumstances.