Many successful professional service firms reach a point where the future of the business becomes uncertain because there is no clear plan for leadership transition or ownership succession. Without a thoughtful plan and related structure in place, firms risk losing identity, continuity, and long-term value. This is particularly true in industries like architecture and engineering, where ownership, licensing, and naming regulations add complexity.
At the same time, firm leaders must plan for retirement, prepare for unexpected events, retain top talent, and ensure that clients experience stability throughout transitions.
The Ownership Transition Planning Practice at Tarter Krinsky & Drogin helps businesses navigate these challenges with a practical, forward-looking approach. We work closely with businesses to evaluate their options, structure ownership transitions effectively, and guide them through both immediate decisions and long-term strategies. Whether the goal is to sell to a third party, transition ownership internally, or explore private equity opportunities, our team provides clear, actionable advice guiding businesses each step of the way.
What distinguishes Tarter Krinsky & Drogin is our ability to combine deep industry knowledge with a nimble, highly personalized approach. We understand the unique regulatory frameworks that govern licensed professional entities, including ownership restrictions, naming conventions, and liability considerations.
Our team operates with discretion, speed, and sound judgment, allowing clients to move forward confidently while maintaining stability within their organizations, supporting both urgent transitions and long-term succession planning initiatives, depending on where a client is in the lifecycle of their business.
We primarily advise firm founders, managing partners, and senior leaders planning for succession, as well as next-generation owners at professional services firms seeking to acquire or grow their stake in the business within sectors including:
- Architecture and engineering firms
- Law firms and accounting firms
- Healthcare and other licensed professional practices
- Privately held professional services businesses of all sizes
Our Ownership Transition Planning Practice provides a range of services designed to help clients achieve long-term success such as:
- Succession planning strategy and implementation
- Ownership transition structuring (including internal buyouts and external sales)
- Private equity transaction structuring for licensed entities
- Regulatory compliance analysis (including licensing and ownership requirements)
- Risk management, insurance, and liability allocation planning
- Business continuity and contingency planning
- Governance, equity incentive, and talent retention strategies
