Ben MacDowell

Ben is a corporate, commercial real estate, and estate and business succession planning attorney who works with a wide variety of businesses and individuals. His experience includes purchase and sale transaction agreements, commercial real estate purchase and leasing matters, commercial agreements, zoning matters, general corporate governance, and planning for the future.

Born in upstate New York, Ben first came to Ohio in 1993 to attend Ohio Wesleyan University. He graduated in 1997 with a dual major in Politics and Philosophy and a minor in Economics. In 1999, he returned to Ohio to study at the Ohio State University Moritz College of Law and has been practicing law in Ohio since late 2002. 

When a dispute arises, he works every possible angle to assist clients in avoiding litigation and protecting their interests. He has a sharp legal mind and maintains exceptional attention to detail. Ben is a highly effective negotiator who is adept at finding creative solutions to even the most complex legal challenges. His ability to communicate legal concepts clearly and concisely has earned him the respect of clients and colleagues alike.

Ben also obtained the Ohio State University Moritz College of Law Certificate on Alternative Dispute Resolution and has previously served as a mediator for the Franklin County Small Claims Court. In his personal life, he has a wife and two children and spends his free time reading, cycling, and coaching baseball and basketball. 

Ben enjoys working with his clients on a personal level to understand their needs and goals and establish a mutually beneficial relationship.

Attorney - General Corporate | Real Estate | Estate Planning

Representative Experience

  • Drafted, reviewed, and edited contracts of all types between individuals and/or entities across multiple industries

  • Worked on purchase and sale transactions, most with attendant commercial real estate transactions, including:

  • Transportation company purchase and sale transactions

  • Dental office purchase and sale transactions 

  • Retail purchase and sale transactions

  • Home healthcare company transactions

  • Franchisee purchase and transfer transactions

  • A psychiatry practice transaction

  • A large engineering firm transaction

  • Bar/restaurant transactions

  • Sundry other business purchase or sale transactions

  • Developed irrevocable trusts to hold real estate while keeping it protected and privately owned

  • Worked with companies on multiple legal concerns from startup to stability

  • Drafted, reviewed, and edited commercial leases for businesses on multiple types of premises and in various industries

  • Assisted clients in zoning variance matters

  • Assisted clients in real estate tax exemption and late fee payment forgiveness applications 

  • Assisted clients in business owner separation matters

  • Assisted clients in dispute settlement efforts with third parties

  • Drafted multiple estate plans for a variety of clients

“At the outset of an attorney/client relationship, it is vital that the attorney fully understands their client’s needs, goals, and risks, and that the client fully understands and agrees to the work the attorney intends to perform for them.”
Ben's Recent Blog Posts
Common Representations and Warranties in Business Purchase Agreements
Common Representations and Warranties in Business Purchase Agreements

Whether you are buying or selling a business, it is essential to understand how representations and warranties impact the purchase agreement that governs the transaction. The purchase agreement will include both buyer and seller representations and warranties, which are statements and promises the buyers and sellers make regarding the business being sold and their authority to sell it.

Essential Considerations When Buying a Business
Essential Considerations When Buying a Business

Acquiring a business can be an exhilarating and promising endeavor. However, the path to success always has its challenges, especially when it comes to buying an existing business. Whether you're a hopeful entrepreneur or an experienced business person looking to expand your portfolio, purchasing a business requires careful consideration and strategic planning.

Things You Should Keep in Mind When Selling a Business
Things You Should Keep in Mind When Selling a Business

Selling a business is a significant decision that comes with its own set of difficulties and considerations. No matter if you're a seasoned entrepreneur looking to move on to new ventures or a small business owner ready to retire, it's crucial to approach the selling process with careful planning and preparation. From understanding your business's value to finding the right buyer and negotiating a fair deal, there are several key factors to keep in mind when selling a business.