Arizona Shareholders' Agreement with Buy-Sell Agreement Allowing Corporation the First Right of Refusal to Purchase the Shares of Deceased Shareholder should the Beneficiaries of the Deceased Shareholder Desire to Sell such Shares is a legal agreement commonly used by corporations in Arizona to protect the interests of existing shareholders in the event of the death of a shareholder. This type of agreement provides a mechanism for the corporation to maintain control over the shares and prevent unwanted transfers to third parties. In essence, this agreement grants the corporation the first right of refusal to purchase the shares of a deceased shareholder before they can be sold to any other party. It ensures that the corporation has the opportunity to maintain its ownership structure by acquiring the shares at fair market value and avoiding potential disruptions to the company's operations. The primary purpose of these shareholders' agreement is to regulate the transfer of shares upon the death of a shareholder and to establish a framework for valuing the shares in such situations. It protects the corporation and the remaining shareholders by preventing the shares from falling into the hands of unknown or undesirable third parties. There are different variations of this agreement, each tailored to suit the specific needs of the corporation. Some key variations include: 1. Trigger events: The agreement may include additional trigger events, such as disability, retirement, or divorce, which can give rise to the corporation's first right of refusal to purchase the shares. This ensures that the corporation has control over the disposition of shares in various situations. 2. Valuation methods: The agreement may outline specific methods for determining the fair market value of the shares. Common methods include book value, net asset value, or a predetermined formula based on the company's financial performance. The chosen valuation method aims to provide a fair and transparent mechanism for determining the price of the shares. 3. Offer and acceptance process: The agreement sets out the procedure for the corporation to exercise its right of refusal. Typically, it requires the beneficiary of the deceased shareholder to provide written notice of their intention to sell the shares. The corporation then has a specified period to accept or decline the offer. 4. Financing arrangements: The agreement may specify the terms under which the corporation can finance the purchase of the shares. This can include options such as cash payments, installment payments, or the issuance of promissory notes. 5. Dispute resolution: To address any disagreements that may arise during the negotiation or execution of the buy-sell agreement, the shareholders' agreement may include a dispute resolution mechanism, such as mediation or arbitration. It is crucial for corporations in Arizona to consult with legal professionals to draft a customized shareholders' agreement with a buy-sell provision that aligns with their specific needs and goals. This agreement provides the corporation and its shareholders with peace of mind and ensures a smooth transition in the event of a shareholder's death.