Family dynamics must be taken into consideration when working with a family business. It can be challenging when families bring their own personal feelings and relationships and may project them onto the business. In situations where there is conflict, the best way to de-escalate the situation is through intervention. That may include bringing in psychologists and conflict resolution experts to work out issues before they grow, and negatively impact the business. As attorneys for family business, our job is to represent and advocate for the best solutions for the business and not the individual family members. We serve as neutral parties to protect the company.

When family businesses are succession planning, family order should not necessarily dictate the structure of the business. The family needs to honestly evaluate the skills and talents of the next generation and roles should be filled with the most qualified candidate. It may turn out that the first-born daughter or son is not the best fit for the role of CEO or president.