A Buy-Sell Agreement between shareholders and a corporation in Illinois is a legally binding contract that outlines the terms under which shares of a corporation may be bought or sold by the existing shareholders. It is designed to establish a clear set of rules and procedures regarding the ownership and transfer of shares, helping to protect the interests of all parties involved in the corporation. There are several types of Buy-Sell Agreements which can be used in Illinois, depending on the specific needs and circumstances of the corporation and its shareholders. Some common types include: 1. Cross-Purchase Agreement: This type of agreement allows the remaining shareholders to purchase the shares of a departing or deceased shareholder. Each remaining shareholder individually agrees to buy the shares in proportion to their existing ownership percentage. This ensures a smooth transition of ownership and prevents outsiders from gaining control of the corporation. 2. Redemption Agreement: In this type of agreement, the corporation itself, rather than individual shareholders, agrees to buy back the shares of a departing or deceased shareholder. The funds for the share purchase are usually provided by the corporation's life insurance policy on the shareholders' lives or through a sinking fund. 3. Hybrid Agreement: A hybrid agreement combines elements of both cross-purchase and redemption agreements. It provides flexibility by allowing the remaining shareholders and the corporation to choose the best method for purchasing the shares of a departing or deceased shareholder. The Illinois Buy-Sell Agreement typically includes various important provisions, such as: a. Purchase Price: The agreement stipulates the method for determining the price at which shares will be sold, which can include a formula based on the corporation's financial statements or through a valuation process. b. Restrictions on Transfer: The agreement may contain provisions that restrict the transfer of shares to outsiders. These restrictions help maintain the ownership within the existing shareholder group and prevent potential conflicts of interest. c. Triggering Events: The agreement specifies the events that will trigger the buy-sell provisions, such as death, disability, retirement, or resignation of a shareholder. This ensures the smooth transition of ownership in case of unforeseen circumstances. d. Funding Mechanism: The agreement outlines the funding mechanism to facilitate the purchase of shares, such as using personal funds, corporate funds, or obtaining life insurance policies on shareholders' lives. e. Dispute Resolution: In case of disagreements or disputes, the Buy-Sell Agreement usually includes procedures for resolving conflicts, such as mediation, arbitration, or other alternative dispute resolution methods. f. Terms and Conditions: The agreement includes various terms and conditions related to the sale and transfer of shares, including payment terms, timelines, and any additional rights or obligations of the parties involved. It is essential for shareholders and the corporation to consult with legal professionals experienced in corporate law in Illinois when drafting and executing a Buy-Sell Agreement. This ensures that the agreement complies with state laws and adequately protects the interests of all parties involved.