A Massachusetts Buy Sell Agreement Between Shareholders and a Corporation is a legally binding contract that outlines the process for buying and selling shares in a corporation among its shareholders. This agreement is crucial for ensuring the smooth transfer of ownership and providing a roadmap for resolving disputes or unexpected events that may arise during the life of the corporation. Key elements of a Massachusetts Buy Sell Agreement include: 1. Triggering Events: This section defines events that activate the buy-sell provisions, such as the death, disability, retirement, or voluntary/involuntary termination of a shareholder. It sets out the circumstances under which a shareholder can sell their shares and when the corporation or other shareholders have the right to purchase them. 2. Valuation Methodology: The agreement specifies how the shares will be valued to determine the purchase price. Common methodologies include book value, fair market value, or a predetermined formula based on the corporation's financial statements or an independent appraiser's assessment. 3. Restriction on Transfer: Typically, these agreements restrict shareholders from transferring their shares outside the corporation without offering them to the existing shareholders or the corporation first. It ensures that the ownership remains within the existing shareholders or the corporation itself, thereby maintaining control and stability. 4. Funding Mechanism: The agreement outlines the funding mechanism for share purchases. It may include provisions such as using corporate funds, insurance policies, bank loans, or a combination of these methods to facilitate the purchase. 5. Payment Terms: This section specifies the terms and conditions of payment, such as the timeline for completing the transaction, the mode of payment (e.g., lump sum or installment basis), and any applicable interest rates. 6. Dispute Resolution: In order to prevent potential conflicts, the agreement may include dispute resolution mechanisms, such as arbitration or mediation, to promote fair and efficient resolution of disagreements among shareholders. 7. Types of Buy-Sell Agreements: There can be different types of Massachusetts Buy Sell Agreements, including cross-purchase agreements where the remaining shareholders have the right to purchase the shares, or entity-purchase agreements where the corporation itself has the obligation to buy the shares. Hybrid agreements are also common, combining elements of both types. Overall, a Massachusetts Buy Sell Agreement provides a clear framework for the transfer of shares and helps protect the interests of both the corporation and its shareholders. It ensures a smooth transition of ownership, minimizes potential conflicts, and maintains the stability and continuity of the corporation.