A Montana Shareholders' Agreement is a legally binding document that outlines the rights, responsibilities, and obligations of two shareholders in a closely held corporation. It helps provide clarity and prevent disputes by clearly defining the terms under which the shareholders may buy or sell their shares. This agreement is particularly significant when it includes buy-sell provisions, which establish the rules and procedures for the sale or transfer of shares. In Montana, there are several types of Shareholders' Agreements with Buy-Sell Provisions that can be customized to suit the specific needs and circumstances of the shareholders. Some common types include: 1. Cross-Purchase Agreement: This type of agreement allows each shareholder to have the right or obligation to purchase the shares of the other shareholder in the event of certain triggering events, such as death, disability, retirement, or voluntary departure from the corporation. The remaining shareholder(s) would use their own funds or arrange financing to buy the shares. This ensures smooth ownership transition and maintains control within the corporation. 2. Stock Redemption Agreement: In this type of agreement, the corporation itself has the right or obligation to repurchase the shares of a shareholder under specified circumstances. The corporation typically utilizes its own funds or insurance proceeds to finance the buyout. This type of agreement can be particularly useful when there are numerous shareholders, and it may be more efficient for the corporation to repurchase the shares. 3. Hybrid Agreement: A hybrid agreement combines elements of both the cross-purchase and stock redemption agreements, offering more flexibility to the shareholders. This allows the remaining shareholder(s) and/or the corporation to have the option to purchase the departing shareholder's shares based on a predefined formula or valuation method. Regardless of the specific type, a Montana Shareholders' Agreement should cover various essential aspects, including the purchase price or valuation methods for the shares, payment terms, triggering events for the buy-sell provisions, procedures for disputes and resolution, restrictions on share transfers to third parties, and any other agreements or restrictions relating to the corporation and its shareholders. It is crucial for the shareholders to seek legal counsel while drafting a Montana Shareholders' Agreement to ensure compliance with state laws and to properly protect their interests. As each agreement may vary significantly depending on the circumstances and objectives of the shareholders, it is essential to tailor the agreement accordingly to reflect the specific needs and preferences of the parties involved.