Best Corporate Governance Lawyers in Alabama

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Massey, Stotser & Nichols, PC
Birmingham, United States

Founded in 1977
13 people in their team
English
WE ARE A TEAM OF LAWYERS WHO ACT AS ONE Our team of Alabama trial and transactional attorneys has a broad range of knowledge and experience. We draw from each others’ experiences to provide our clients with a greater level of support. This has afforded us the opportunity to cover many issues...
WATKINS & EAGER
Birmingham, United States

Founded in 1895
196 people in their team
English
Established in 1895, Watkins & Eager PLLC is a full-service law firm focused on the pursuit of excellence in the practice of law.  Our 70+ professionals in Mississippi and Alabama from varied backgrounds use their wealth of experience to creatively help our clients navigate an...

Founded in 2011
4 people in their team
English
The Watson Firm is The Entrepreneur's Law Firm. Based in Birmingham, Alabama, The Watson Firm is one of the few law firms in the country that works exclusively with current and aspiring entrepreneurs to start, grow, and protect their businesses. Combining expertise in law and business, The Watson...
Phelps Dunbar LLP.
Birmingham, United States

Founded in 1853
300 people in their team
English
Our health law attorneys represent hospitals, physicians, managed care organizations and other health care providers throughout the Southeast as counsel on corporate, tax and regulatory matters. We also represent our health care clientele in a variety of health care related areas, including labor...
BALCH & BINGHAM LLP
Birmingham, United States

Founded in 1922
439 people in their team
English
Balch & Bingham LLP is a corporate law firm with more than 230 attorneys across offices in Birmingham and Montgomery, Alabama; Jacksonville, Florida; Atlanta, Georgia; Gulfport and Jackson, Mississippi; Houston, Texas and Washington, D.C. We are recognized for our deep experience serving...
Bailey Glasser
Birmingham, United States

Founded in 1999
123 people in their team
English
Founded by Ben Bailey and Brian Glasser in 1999 in Charleston, West Virginia, Bailey Glasser has grown to include 76 lawyers, with 17 offices across the United States. The firm’s complex litigation practice focuses on high-stakes commercial litigation; class actions for consumers, insureds,...
Bradley
Birmingham, United States

Founded in 1870
1,000 people in their team
English
Bradley is a national law firm with a reputation for skilled legal work, exceptional client service, and impeccable integrity. We provide business clients around the world with a full suite of legal services in dozens of industries and practice areas.With 13 offices located in Alabama, Florida,...

Founded in 1891
1,287 people in their team
English
For 130 years, Baker Donelson has built a reputation for achieving results for our clients on a wide range of legal matters. While providing legal services is our focus, it is how we deliver them that sets us apart. Our goal is to provide clients with more than what they have come to expect from a...
Martinson & Beason
Huntsville, United States

Founded in 1937
50 people in their team
English
Founded in 1937, the law firm of Martinson and Beason, P.C. has been dedicated for over 85 years to achieving the best possible result for our clients. Our Huntsville Alabama personal injury lawyers provide a professional, team approach to each case. Our attorneys are committed to the highest...
Adams and Reese LLP
Birmingham, United States

Founded in 1951
610 people in their team
English
Study our experience and credentials to understand why we belong on your short list. Get to know us as people, and you’ll recognize our dedication to client service. At Adams and Reese, we take things personally. Our people are connected - to each other, to our clients, our families, and our...
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About Corporate Governance Law in Alabama, United States

Corporate governance refers to the system of rules, practices, and processes by which companies are directed and controlled. In Alabama, corporate governance law is shaped by a combination of state statutes, case law, and federal requirements. The primary aim is to balance the interests of a company's stakeholders, including shareholders, management, customers, suppliers, financiers, government, and the wider community. Alabama’s corporate governance laws set out the responsibilities and powers of directors and officers, standards of conduct, shareholder rights, and mechanisms for accountability. Companies operating in Alabama must comply with both the Alabama Business Corporation Law and relevant federal statutes, such as the Sarbanes-Oxley Act.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Legal counsel is essential for navigating complex corporate governance requirements. You may need a lawyer in several situations, including:

  • Establishing a new corporation, LLC, or nonprofit in Alabama
  • Drafting or amending bylaws and governance policies
  • Advising on fiduciary duties of directors and officers
  • Handling disputes between shareholders, directors, or officers
  • Responding to regulatory investigations or compliance actions
  • Assisting with mergers, acquisitions, or restructuring
  • Ensuring compliance with state and federal disclosure requirements
  • Managing conflicts of interest
  • Protecting minority shareholder rights
  • Providing ongoing advice on best governance practices

Local Laws Overview

Alabama’s primary law governing corporations is the Alabama Business and Nonprofit Entities Code, specifically the Alabama Business Corporation Law. Key aspects include:

  • Fiduciary Duties: Directors and officers owe the corporation duties of care and loyalty. These duties require acting in the best interest of the corporation and avoiding conflicts of interest.
  • Shareholder Rights: Alabama law details the procedures for meetings, voting, inspection of corporate records, and shareholder actions.
  • Corporate Structure: Companies must appoint directors, officers, and maintain proper documentation. Annual reports must be filed with the Alabama Secretary of State.
  • Derivative Actions: Shareholders have the right to bring derivative suits on behalf of the corporation when management fails to act.
  • Compliance: Alabama corporations must adhere to both state statutes and applicable federal regulations regarding governance and disclosure.
  • Dissolution and Reinstatement: Procedures are set forth for voluntarily or involuntarily dissolving a corporation, as well as for reinstatement after administrative dissolution.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is corporate governance?

Corporate governance is a set of rules and practices that determine how a company is directed, managed, and controlled. It ensures that the interests of stakeholders are protected and that the company operates with integrity and accountability.

What laws regulate corporate governance in Alabama?

Corporate governance in Alabama is primarily governed by the Alabama Business and Nonprofit Entities Code, state case law, and certain federal laws like the Sarbanes-Oxley Act.

What are fiduciary duties?

Fiduciary duties are legal obligations of corporate directors and officers to act in the best interests of the company. These duties include the duties of care, loyalty, and sometimes obedience.

Who can serve as a director or officer in an Alabama corporation?

Alabama law allows any adult individual to serve as a corporate director or officer unless otherwise restricted by the company’s bylaws or articles of incorporation.

Can shareholders inspect company records?

Yes, shareholders in Alabama have the right to inspect certain company records, such as minutes of meetings and financial statements, for a proper purpose.

How are corporate disputes resolved?

Disputes may be resolved through negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or litigation in Alabama courts, depending on the circumstances and company policies.

Are annual meetings required?

Most Alabama corporations are required to hold annual meetings of shareholders to elect directors and address other corporate business.

What is a derivative lawsuit?

A derivative lawsuit is a legal action brought by a shareholder on behalf of the corporation, typically against directors or officers for breach of duty or other wrongdoing.

What happens if a corporation is administratively dissolved?

If a corporation is administratively dissolved for failing to meet legal requirements (like filing annual reports), it can seek reinstatement by rectifying the issues and applying to the Alabama Secretary of State.

Do Alabama corporations have to follow federal governance laws?

Yes, in addition to state law, corporations are often subject to federal regulations such as those imposed by the Securities and Exchange Commission and applicable acts like the Sarbanes-Oxley Act if they are publicly traded or subject to federal oversight.

Additional Resources

  • Alabama Secretary of State - Business Services Division
  • Alabama State Bar Association - Business Law Section
  • Alabama Code (Title 10A: Alabama Business and Nonprofit Entities Code)
  • United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)
  • Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) in Alabama
  • Internal Revenue Service (IRS) - For federal tax and compliance information
  • Local chambers of commerce for business resources and networking

Next Steps

If you need legal advice or assistance with corporate governance in Alabama, start by gathering key documents such as your articles of incorporation, bylaws, and recent meeting minutes. Identify your main concerns or questions and seek out an attorney who specializes in corporate law in Alabama. Many law firms offer initial consultations to help assess your situation and recommend a course of action. Staying informed about your legal obligations and taking proactive steps can help you maintain compliance and operate your business effectively.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Alabama through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Corporate Governance, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Alabama, United States - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.