Why Every Dental Practice Acquisition Needs the Right Attorney
Purchasing a dental practice is one of the most important business decisions that a dentist or dental investor can make. A successful acquisition provides an established patient base, steady cash flow, and long-term financial growth. However, even the most promising opportunity can hide risks such as legal liabilities, restrictive lease terms, compliance issues, or poorly written agreements that may lead to costly problems.
That is why having a skilled dental acquisition lawyer in Tulsa, Oklahoma, is essential. This blog will provide a clear overview of how an attorney protects your investment through every stage of the acquisition process.
Structuring the Deal: Asset Purchase or Entity Purchase
Your attorney will help you select the right transaction structure for you; this will either be an asset purchase or an entity purchase.
- Asset purchase: You only acquire specific assets (such as equipment, goodwill, patient records, and supplies) while avoiding any unwanted liabilities.
- Entity purchase: You are buying the entire business entity, taking on both its assets and its liabilities.
Choosing the wrong structure can create tax complications and unnecessary risk. An experienced dental acquisition attorney in Tulsa will review your options and guide you toward the structure that aligns with your financial goals.
Drafting and Reviewing the Letter of Intent
A Letter of Intent (LOI) is the first formal step in an acquisition. It covers:
- Purchase price
- Treatment of accounts receivable
- Earnest money terms
- Closing timeline
- Due diligence period
- Transition expectations
Although often non-binding, the LOI sets the foundation for all future negotiations. An experienced attorney ensures that it accurately reflects your intentions and protects your position from the start.
Conducting Thorough Due Diligence
Due diligence is the stage in acquisition where the true value of the dental practice is verified. Your attorney will review:
- Compliance with dental boards and HIPAA rules
- Vendor, staff, and insurance contracts
- Existing or potential legal claims
- Corporate and financial records
- Employment and lease obligations
Working cohesively with accountants and consultants, your attorney will help confirm that the practice is accurately represented and free from hidden liabilities.
Reviewing and Negotiating the Office Lease
Dental practices are, typically, closely tied to their location. Therefore, the office lease is a critical part of any acquisition. Your attorney will evaluate:
- Assignment and transfer clauses
- Personal guarantees
- Rent increases and renewal options
- Maintenance responsibilities
- Relocation or termination clauses
Examining office lease information in detail ensures the lease will support your continued operations without unexpected costs or legal challenges.
Ensuring Compliance with Healthcare Regulations
Dental practices must comply with various federal and state laws, including:
- HIPAA privacy rules
- OSHA safety standards
- Dental board requirements
- Infection control and sterilization standards
A knowledgeable attorney establishes that the practice is compliant, and you won’t inherit any unresolved regulatory problems.
Drafting the Purchase Agreement
The Purchase Agreement is the final legal document that defines every detail of your acquisition. Every clause is reviewed to prevent future disputes and safeguard your investment. It includes:
- Final purchase price and allocation
- Handling of account receivables and payables
- Non-compete and non-solicitation clauses
- Representations and warranties from the seller
- Assets included and excluded in the purchase
- Closing procedures and deliverables
Protecting Yourself with Enforceable Non-Compete Agreements
Goodwill is a major component of a dental practice’s value. If a seller opens a competing office nearby, that goodwill can be diminished if not strategically maintained.
Your attorney can draft a non-compete agreement that is legally enforceable in the state of Oklahoma while keeping it reasonable in distance and duration. It can also be tailored to the local market. A non-solicitation clause may also be included to prevent the seller from recruiting your staff or patients following the sale.
Coordinating the Financing and Closing
Your attorney will coordinate communication between lenders, consultants, accountants, and the sellers’ representatives to certify a seamless closing. They will prepare and review the final documents, verify financial terms, and oversee the transfer of assets, contracts, and patient records.
Supporting a Smooth Post-Closing Transition
After closing, your attorney may assist with:
- Employment and partnership agreements
- Lease amendments
- Real estate transfers
- Insurance and credentialing updates
A solid post-closing strategy helps maintain patient trust, retain staff, and preserve long-term value.
Why Choose Aaron Bruner, Attorney at Law
When dealing with dental practice acquisitions, experience, and precision matters, Aaron Bruner, Attorney at Law, provides comprehensive legal guidance for dentists and investors across Tulsa and the surrounding areas. His approach is personalized, proactive, and built to reduce risk while ensuring your acquisition proceeds smoothly.
If you are ready to buy or sell a dental practice, Aaron offers the expertise and attention to detail that will be required for a safe and successful transition.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Purchasing or transitioning a dental practice is a major investment; make sure that it is protected. To schedule a consultation, contact Aaron Bruner, Attorney at Law, who is a trusted dental acquisition lawyer in Tulsa, OK.