Bio

Eric Clarke advises middle market companies, family businesses, high-net-worth individuals, private equity funds, investors and family offices in complex business transactions. He helps clients with mergers and acquisitions, asset acquisitions and dispositions, corporate redemptions, equity financings, and resolution of shareholder disputes (including intra-family disputes). Given his skill and nearly three decades of experience guiding clients through transactions that require complex multi-generational plans and accommodation of different priorities, many of his clients retain him to serve as outside coordinating counsel as well as assisting with the implementation of business growth and risk management strategies. Eric offers strategic solutions accounting for all stakeholders, often utilizing innovative financing options ensuring an equitable outcome for all. He has closed more than 200 M&A transactions in a variety of industries, including agriculture, automotive, financial services, insurance, hospitality, manufacturing, health care, transportation and logistics, and technology. As part of his general corporate practice, Eric advises on a wide range of general business and commercial matters, including commercial contracts, licensing arrangements, employment and consulting arrangements, and corporate governance. His depth of experience in family business matters and substantial transactional experience are invaluable helping clients with both structuring closely held corporations and negotiating and documenting shareholder buyouts. Eric also frequently advises trustees with respect to their fiduciary obligations to beneficiaries. Eric is the co-founding partner of the firm's Walnut Creek office where he serves as our East Bay Market Leader. He is also a member of the Association of Corporate Growth and the East Bay Insighters.