Buy-sell agreement case study is an illustrative example that shows how a specific buy-sell arrangement works in practice for a hypothetical or real small business. It typically outlines the business structure, owner ages and ownership percentages, valuation method, triggering events, and the role of life and disability insurance in funding buyouts. Case studies demonstrate what happens with and without a buy-sell in place, highlighting issues like widow or widower ownership, forced liquidation, or disputes over value. They are powerful teaching tools for explaining abstract legal and financial concepts in concrete, relatable terms.

Advisors use buy-sell agreement case studies in client meetings, seminars, and training sessions to show the real-world stakes of planning versus not planning. They may adapt case details to mirror the clientTMs own business size and ownership structure, helping owners picture how survivors, lenders, and employees would be affected by an unexpected death or disability. Case studies often include side-by-side comparisons of outcomes with properly funded agreements versus unfunded or poorly drafted ones. Understanding buy-sell case studies allows advisors to move beyond technical language and motivate business owners to implement or update their own agreements and funding.