Chicago Real Estate Attorneys & Lawyers

Updated October 28, 2020:

What is a Right of First Refusal?

A right of first refusal, also called a ROFR, the first right of refusal, or a last look provision, gives a person or company the opportunity to start a business transaction before anyone else can. It could provide the first chance to buy stocks or real estate at the same price and terms as another offer. If the holder of the right of first refusal declines, the owner of the asset can sell it to whomever they want.

There's even a ROFR in many child custody agreements. It requires that one parent offer the other parent the chance to watch the kids before using a family member or outside child care.

A Right of First Offer: What is it?

A right of first offer or ROFO requires owners to

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Updated July 8, 2020:

What is a Special Purpose Vehicle?

A special purpose vehicle (SPV) is a subsidiary of a company which is protected from the parent company's financial risk. It is a legal entity created for a limited business acquisition or transaction, or it can be used as a funding structure. It is sometimes called a special purpose entity (SPE).

An SPV has assets, liabilities, and a legal status outside of the obligations of the parent company. The primary purpose of an SPV is to carry out a specific business activity outside of the parent company, therein protecting the parent company from risks such as bankruptcy and insolvency issues.

Why is a Special Purpose Vehicle Important?

SPVs are formed as limited partnerships, trusts,

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Updated October 27, 2020:

What Is Trademark Licensing?

Trademark licensing is the process by which a registered trademark owner, called a licensor or proprietor, allows another party, called a licensee, to make and distribute specific products or services under the licensor's trademark agreement. Trademark licensing is a type of merchandise agreement.

The licensor receives a certain amount of money or royalties, a percentage of all sales, in exchange for sharing the trademark. This compensation is also called consideration. Fashion and consumer products concerned with sports and entertainment are often sold under a trademark licensing agreement.

The licensee usually creates a trademark licensing agreement, but a licensor can also

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Updated October 26, 2020

What Is a Contract?

A contract is a legal agreement between two or more parties. A business contract includes the following:

• Names of all parties
• Contract beginning and end dates
• Payment amounts and schedule
• Steps to take when a party breaks the contract
• Signature with date

Business Contracts: What Are They?

Also known as a contractual business relationship or an agreement, a contract describes expectations for an interaction. It ensures all parties agree to the terms of their relationship.

A contract should include:

• Offer: One party makes the offer, and the other accepts it.
• Exchange: This includes money, goods, and services.

Why Are Contracts

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What is a Portfolio Company?

A portfolio company is a term used to describe a company in which investors own equity in a company or buy out a company. The goal of the investor is to increase the value of the portfolio company and earn a return on their initial investment.

The investment could be in the form of private equity in established companies or venture capital in companies just starting out. One portfolio company usually forms part of a group of companies in the investor's full portfolio.

Who Invests in Portfolio Companies?

Portfolio companies are used by venture capital firms, private equity firms, and other financial investment firms. Some firms build a portfolio of companies that specialize in a specific sector, such as science or engineering. Others have a diverse mix of portfolios.

Private Equity Firms: Private equity is a type of financ

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