Dealership Representation

For over 40 years, Ferruzzo has served as the preeminent law firm in representing new and used motor vehicle dealerships. Whether buying or selling an existing dealership, or opening a new point, our attorneys collaborate with clients to achieve optimal results.

Dealing with Manufacturers

We have represented clients in dealing with virtually all automobile manufacturers. We assist our clients in understanding the ins and outs of the manufacturer’s requirements. With our deep history with the manufacturers, we have established long-term, productive, and invaluable relationships with them.

Buying and Selling Dealerships

To date, we have represented clients in the purchase and sale of over 200 dealerships. This vast experience offers our clients the edge to successfully and efficiently prepare dealerships for sale. We identify and provide counseling on the best remedies to overcome potential deal killers before going to market. On the purchase side, our attorneys are skilled at reaching practical solutions to the many issues that arise during the buy-sell process. In each case, we work with your automotive CPA to structure the transaction in a tax-efficient manner.

Entity Agreements

Robert Frost said, “Good fences make good neighbors.”

We regularly work with clients to prepare partnership, operating, and shareholder agreements that ensure all owners’ interests are protected. We make certain that each client has a clear understanding of how various life events, such as death, disability, or retirement, can impact their businesses and structure their agreements to minimize risk and maximize value.

Succession Planning

Some clients desire to create a family business legacy. We have represented many auto dealer clients for multiple generations. We have assisted in the transition of these entities from generation to generation while preserving relationships within the family, with the dealership’s employees, and with the manufacturers.

Real Estate Transactions

Every dealership needs a footprint. Ferruzzo attorneys advise clients on real estate matters, such as leasing, purchase and sale, and financing. We structure transactions to avoid pitfalls common in the industry, such as environmental claims and preserving low property taxes under California Proposition 13.

Employment Practices

Doing business in California and Texas is challenging. We actively guide clients through the many rules and regulations governing employment practices. This representation includes proactive planning such as negotiating and drafting employment agreements and pay plans specific to the auto industry. We create employee handbooks to ensure the implementation of best practices. When a strong defense against employment litigation is necessary, Ferruzzo attorneys are experienced in all aspects to protect the auto dealer’s best interests.