Gary W. Smith

Hindsight is generally 20/20. But how do you know if a deal is good or bad before you sign it?

Gary Smith helps business owners and management teams answer that question as they start, buy, and sell businesses, create joint ventures, and raise additional capital.

“I believe people make better decisions when they have a complete and practical understanding of the economic and legal issues surrounding their business operations and growth strategies. My past experiences and understanding of today’s business climate help me provide real-time practical solutions so clients can seize opportunities while controlling their investment of time and money.”

Personal
Gary is happily married to Rachel, his wife of 31 years and his source of motivation, guidance, support, and fun.  They have two children, Quinn and Jessica, who make life even better.

Mergers and Acquisitions
The objectives of a buyer and seller are radically different in most business sales. In many transactions, the buyer and seller rarely recognize how different their objectives and considerations are until the first dispute after closing. Gary provides his clients with the knowledge of what to expect during and after a sale, eliminating any surprises after the close of the transaction.

Succession and Exit Planning
Can you retire when you’re the boss? You can, but it’s not easy or simple if you hope to keep the business in the family or transfer it to key employees while getting the cash to fund your retirement. It is easy, however, to start the process multiple times without ever finishing it. Gary guides owners and companies through the transitions of financial ownership, management, and control of the business. He helps them determine if an internal transfer to employees or family is better than a sale to a third party. He also manages the process, so it’s not overwhelming and, this time, you finish it.

Securities and Capital Structures
When you are seeking outside investment, equity, or debt, it’s easy to miss the state and federal laws that limit and direct your actions. Gary helps guide businesses through the capital raising process so that they can offer the right investment structures the right way to investors, including self-directed IRAs and 401(k)’s.

Industries
From professional services and IT infrastructure and development to manufacturing and real estate ventures, Gary has in-depth knowledge and experience in helping businesses navigate the complexities of today’s legal environment. He uses that knowledge to offer innovative solutions that address the needs of today’s business owners.

Education

• University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill Juris Doctor with Honors (1998)
• University of Mississippi Bachelor of Arts, Summa Cum Laude (1995)
• Bryce Harlow Institute on Business and Government Affairs (1994)