Ankney Law | Virginia SMB Attorney

Joel is a nationally recognized authority on the purchase and sale of small businesses. He has closed deals with a purchase price of $5 million or less for hundreds of clients, many of which were financed by a combination of SBA loans and seller financing. Joel has also represented sellers in deals to private equity firms and traditional search funds with purchase prices as high as $20 million. Joel has spoken as a guest at leading business schools and on numerous podcasts about the process of buying or selling a small business.

Joel graduated first in his class from law school, then practiced for 12 years at some of the nation's largest law firms. Joel started his own law firm in 2003 to represent small businesses in a more economical and efficient manner.

Practice Areas

Buy or Sell a Business in Virginia

Joel has helped clients close hundreds of deals in diverse industries. He will guide you through your deal by helping you negotiate, draft, and review all deal documents, from the Letter of Intent to the Purchase Agreement to the ancillary Closing documents. He will also conduct legal due diligence, advise you on deal structure, and assist you with obtaining your financing. Joel will manage the deal process for you and act as your settlement agent, if needed.

Launch a Business in Virginia

Joel has helped founders launch hundreds of businesses, including consultants, freelancers, construction trades, retail, online, healthcare, real estate, and service businesses. He will help you determine whether you need an LLC or corporation, then set up that entity for you. Joel will also answer any legal questions you may have about starting your business. In addition, he will identify essential contracts our new business needs and draft them for you.

Operate a Business in Virginia

Small businesses regularly need help with legal issues as they operate, but typically cannot afford to have an attorney on staff full-time. Joel acts as a fractional outside counsel to Virginia businesses to help with drafting, reviewing, and negotiating key contracts, advising on legal compliance, business breakups, and resolving internal disputes among owners and disputes with suppliers, vendors, and customers.