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Can a Corporation Enter into a Business Transaction with One of its Directors?

From time to time, a client corporation wants to enter into a business transaction with one of its directors. An astute CEO, recognizing the potential for a conflict of interest, will ask whether and how such a transaction can take place without violating any laws or any fiduciary obligations to the corporation.

California Corporations Code Section 310 provides that, generally, a transaction between a corporation and one of its directors is permitted if, following disclosure of all material facts and the director’s interest in the transaction, it is approved either by a disinterested majority of the board of directors (usually the easier approach) or by the shareholders. (more…)