Joint ventures often look straightforward on paper: two (or more) parties form a new business to pursue a shared opportunity. In practice, many JVs succeed or fail based on a more basic question—who is actually doing the work. Manufacturing, R&D, distribution,...
Business-Minded Legal Solutions
Firm News
Understanding joint ventures: Who makes choices as you move forward?
A joint venture only works if the parties can make decisions and operate efficiently and if each party agrees with how they share or limit control. That means governance is not just a formality; it is the operating system of the venture. As the parties move from...
Diligence Rigor: Why Strategic Buyers and Sellers Treat It as a Deal Lever (Not a Checklist)
In a Texas middle-market transaction, whether it’s a commercial real estate acquisition, a manufacturing platform investment, a software company sale, or a carve-out, diligence is one of the few phases that can change price, structure, and leverage in real time. It’s...
3 legal safeguards for industrial landlords facing power delays
In the Houston Triangle, "speed to power" is now as critical as location. As an established developer or a high-net-worth investor, you likely feel the pressure. You have the capital for $100 million projects, but waiting for a grid connection can now take several...
Stephenson Fournier Recognized in Chambers USA Texas Spotlight Guide 2026
Stephenson Fournier has been ranked in Chambers USA Texas Spotlight Guide 2026 and recognized as a leading small to medium-sized law firm offering a credible alternative to Big Law. Stephenson Fournier was selected based on an independent and in-depth market analysis,...
Are your competitors getting a better deal than you?
A supplier offers your business a price that seems fair. Months later, you learn that another customer received a deeper discount, better payment terms or a more flexible delivery schedule for a similar deal. That discovery can create real frustration, especially when...
Firm Leaders Recognized in The Best Lawyers in America®, 2026 Edition
Stephenson Fournier is proud to share that: Alison Bloom – recognized for Tax Law in Houston Chris Hanno – recognized for Real Estate Law in Houston Inclusion in Best Lawyers is based entirely on peer review, professional excellence, and a rigorous authentication...
Why is it important to work with an attorney who can address the tax aspects of business transactions?
Business transactions are pivotal moments that can shape the future of a company. Whether it is a merger, acquisition or a significant investment, a business transaction requires careful planning and strategic execution. One critical aspect that business owners should...
3 steps to take when preparing to sell a business
Small and middle market business owners may want to sell their companies for a number of different reasons. Maybe they are ready to retire, or perhaps they want to move into an adjacent industry to explore new opportunities. Regardless of why a business owner intends...
Is it worthwhile to convert an office building into residential units?
Individuals and businesses invest in commercial real estate for different reasons. In some cases, the goal is to require facilities in which to operate a business. Other times, people expect to receive rental income from tenants. Office buildings have historically...

