Like partners, shareholder’s shares may pass to an heir who does not understand the company’s business or whose interests’ conflict with those of the other shareholders. Alternatively, the shareholder’s interest may need to be converted into cash to cover Inheritance Tax liabilities or provide for dependants. Maintaining control and stability of the company during this often-turbulent time is vital to its continued success. By taking the appropriate legal and financial steps shareholders can be confident that the future holds no surprises.