Michael Locke Speaks on Business Continuation and Succession for “Business University” Course

Michael J. Locke, an Associate of law firm Norris McLaughlin, P.A., recently presented two guest lectures for the “Business University” course offered by =Space, an office share space in Newark.

“More than helping business with legal matters and the company bottom-line, I enjoy having opportunities like this to enhance the skills and talents of entrepreneurs, help startup businesses define and attain their mission and goals, and watch these companies succeed and achieve new heights,” said Locke.

About the Business University Course

On December 10, Locke presented “Business Continuation Agreements,” addressing operating agreements, shareholders agreements, and other buy-sell agreements. On December 15, he presented “Business Succession:  Understanding Your Options,” where he covered merger and acquisition transactions and other methods of business owner transitions. Other discussion topics in the course included understanding finances, business basics, valuation, employee agreements, compensation and benefits, retirement options, and estate planning.

=Space offers resources, programs, and networking opportunities for startup companies. The “Business University” course, hosted by Francis A. Piccirillo II, Financial Adviser at Allied Wealth Partners, was broken up into recorded presentations available to =Space members by purchase.

About Michael Locke

Locke focuses on providing counsel to small businesses in all phases of their corporate existence, from formation through merger and acquisition. He also works closely with clients as they grow and expand their businesses, offering advice and legal guidance in connection with customer and supplier agreements; terms and conditions of use for both physical and digital products; inter-business relationships, including joint ventures; export regulations; securities regulations; litigation support; and more.

Locke is especially focused on working with businesses that seek to bridge the gap between commercial success and environmental or social responsibility. He has counseled clients in forming “benefit corporations,” also known as “B-corps,” and drafting corporate governing documents for those seeking to maximize profitability and have a positive effect on their communities while simultaneously minimizing their environmental impacts.

Locke also has experience assisting larger corporations conduct cross-border transactions, including the international purchase and sale of goods as well as the international purchase and sale of assets and equity.

Locke earned his J.D. in 2013, cum laude, from Brooklyn Law School, and his B.A. in 2010, magna cum laude, from Rutgers University.