5 Must-Have Clauses in Your NC Buy-Sell Agreement to Outsmart a Narcissistic Partner – SeiferFlatow, PLLC

Navigating a high-value business separation in North Carolina can feel like entering a minefield—especially when one partner exhibits narcissistic behaviors. Without the right buy-sell agreement language, you risk drawn-out disputes, unexpected valuation tactics, and even reputational harm. We’ve identified five critical clauses that turn your NC buy-sell agreement into an ironclad roadmap. Whether you’re leading a $1 million+ enterprise or overseeing multi-state operations, these provisions will help you retain equity, maintain confidentiality, and outmaneuver manipulative co-founders—so you can exit strategically and securely.

Importantly, just as with divorcing a narcissist, courts understand actions and patterns of behavior more than attitudes and intent. Our team will listen to your perspective in its entirety to help cull the court-ready narratives that will help you outsmart your partner.

1. Trigger Event Definitions

Define exactly what constitutes a “trigger” (death, disability, breach of fiduciary duty, narcissistic misconduct). Narrow, objective definitions prevent a self-serving partner from gaming the process.

2. Hybrid Valuation Formula

Combine a fixed-price formula (e.g., percentage of last fiscal-year net worth) with an independent appraisal option. A narcissistic partner might dispute one method—having both locks them in.

3. Mandatory Mediation & Deadlines

Require binding mediation before any litigation—and set strict notice periods (e.g., 45 days). Under North Carolina’s statutes, missed deadlines can void removal rights.

4. Restrictive Covenants, Non-Disparagement, & Confidentiality

Include carve-outs for tactical confidentiality: neither side can publicly disparage the other or reveal valuation details. This keeps your exit off the local business news and social media. Additionally, include restrictive covenants to prevent your former partner from starting a competing business in the same area.

5. Funding & Escrow Provisions

Spell out how and when purchase funds will be held in escrow, with interest-bearing accounts if closing drags on. This ensures a narcissistic partner can’t intentionally stall your payment.

Meet Brandon Forbes
Brandon Forbes, Special Counsel at SeiferFlatow, is a retired Special Operations officer and Purple Heart recipient. Admitted to the NC Bar in 2016, he specializes in high-stakes partner exits, drafting buy-sell agreements designed to protect your equity from manipulative co-owners.

Ready to Protect Your Stake?
Don’t leave your exit to chance. Schedule an NC Partner Exit Strategy call with Brandon Forbes today—and ensure your buy-sell agreement is battle-tested against even the most difficult partners. If negotiations are not successful, rest assured our team is ready and equipped to take your case through even the toughest of litigation.