Case: The A. C. Family

Sector: Agro-industrial | Location: Ecuador (Los Ríos – Quito)

Context:

The A.C. family owns an agro-industrial company with more than 40 years of experience in the production and export of fine-flavor cacao. The founder, Mr. J.X., aged 74, remains at the head of the family business, although his three adult children are already actively involved: one in finance, another in operations, and the third as commercial director.

Despite the company’s success, the family faces internal tensions around issues such as:

• The role of spouses and in-laws within the company;
• The future ownership of agricultural land and machinery;
• Succession in general management;
• The lack of clear rules regarding profit distribution and decision-making.

Concerned about the future, Mr. J.X. and his spouse decided to seek specialized legal advice.

Intervention by FAMILEX – Cazar | Pesántez Abogados

Design and formalization of the family protocol, including:

• Family vision and mission;
• Rules for employment entry and compensation;
• Succession and ownership criteria.

Establishment of the Family Council, with representatives from each family branch and clear operating and voting rules.

Drafting of a shareholders’ agreement among siblings, regulating share transfers, key decision-making, and dividends.

Creation of a family trust, to separate ownership of strategic assets from day-to-day operations.

Drafting of wills and advance succession planning for both parents.

Implementation of an internal conflict resolution policy, prioritizing mediation and internal agreements.

Training workshops for the third generation (grandchildren) focused on the business, family wealth, and family values.

Results and benefits achieved by the client:

• Protection of key assets against divorce, lawsuits, seizures, or poor business management.
• Reduced family tensions and greater cohesion among family branches.
• Business continuity ensured through clear succession rules.
• Faster and less conflictive family decision-making, thanks to the Family Council and signed agreements.
• Prevention of disputes among heirs through transparent succession planning.

Cazar | Pesántez Abogados continues to provide legal services to the A.C. Family business, not only in family-related matters, but also by incorporating its services through its BACKOFFICE LEGAL solution.