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General Partnership Agreement

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General Partnership Agreement with Managing Partners and Officers

Agreement made the day of , 20, between

, of , referred to herein as Partner One, , of , , referred to herein as Partner Two, and , of , referred to herein as Partner Three.

In consideration of the mutual covenants contained in this Agreement, the parties agree as follows:

I. Basic Structure.

A. Formation. The parties form a general partnership pursuant to the laws of .

B. Name. The business of the Partnership shall be conducted under the name of .

C. Place of Business. The principal office and place of business of the Partnership shall be located at , or such other place as the Managing Partners may from time to time designate.

D. Term. The Partnership shall commence on and shall continue for years, unless earlier terminated in the following manner:

1. By the completion of the purpose intended;

2. Pursuant to this Agreement;

3. By applicable law; or

4. By death, insanity, bankruptcy, retirement, withdrawal, resignation, expulsion, or disability of all of the then Partners.

E. Purpose. The purpose for which the Partnership is organized is .

F. Investment Representations of Partners. Each Partner represents and warrants that he or she is acquiring his or her interest in the Partnership for his or her own account, for investment, and not with a view to the sale or distribution of the same.

G. Tax Matters Partner. The Partners agree that Partner One shall serve as the Tax Matters Partner.

II. Economic and Tax Arrangements.

A. Initial Contributions of Partners. Each Partner has contributed to the initial capital of the Partnership property in the amount and form indicated on Exhibit A attached to and made a part of this Agreement.

B. Partners' Percentage Share of Capital. The Initial Percentage Share of Capital of each Partner shall be as follows: .

C. Interest. No interest shall be paid on any contribution to the capital of the Partnership.

D. Return of Capital Contributions. No Partner shall have the right to demand the return of his or her capital contributions except as provided in this Agreement.

E. Rights of Priority. The individual Partners shall have no right to any priority over each other as to the return of capital contributions except as provided in this Agreement.

F. Additional Capital Contributions. If at any time during the existence of the Partnership it shall become necessary to increase the capital with which the Partnership is doing business, then (upon the vote of the Managing Partners) each party to this Agreement shall contribute to the capital of this Partnership, within days after notice of written request for the same, an amount according to his or her then Percentage Share of Capital as called for by the Managing Partners.

G. Maintenance of Capital Accounts.

1. The Managing Partners shall allocate, for purposes of determining the relative economic relationship among the Partners, the economic contributions to, distributions from, income of and losses of the Partnership in accordance with the Partners' Percentage Share of Capital.

2. The Managing Partners shall allocate, for tax purposes, the contributions to, distributions from, income, losses, deductions and credits of the Partnership in accordance with the Partners' Percentage Share of Capital.

H. Distributions. Each of the Partners may withdraw from the Partnership, for his or her own use, a sum not to exceed $ per month. If, at the close of each fiscal year, it is found that any Partner's share withdrawn by him or her is in excess of his or her distributive share for that fiscal year, he or she shall immediately refund the difference within a period not exceeding days from the time of such determination. In any case, % of Partnership income shall be left in the Partnership as a further contribution of capital by each Partner.

I. Rights of the Partners upon Default of a Partner. Upon the refusal of any Partner to make a capital contribution as required in this Agreement:

1. The Managing Partners shall notify, in writing, the remaining Partners of any default no later than days following the date upon which the defaulted Partner's payment was originally due.

2. Any Partner, other than the defaulted Partner may, within days after the default, purchase the Partnership interest of the defaulted Partner by notifying the Managing Partners and by making payment:

a. To the defaulted Partner, an amount equal to % of such defaulted Partner's then capital, less the expenses incurred in the sale; and

b. To the Partnership, the amount of the capital contribution required upon which the defaulting Partner defaulted.

3. Should more than one Partner notify the Managing Partners of an intention to purchase the Partnership interest of the defaulting Partner, then each such Partner desiring to purchase the defaulted Partner's interest may purchase that portion according to such purchasing Partner's then percentage share of capital. The purchase shall be made in accordance with the provisions of Subparagraph 2 above.

4. If no Partner desires to purchase the Partnership interest of the defaulted Partner, the Managing Partners shall arrange for a private sale of such interest. The defaulted Partner shall receive from the proceeds of the sale the sale amount (but in any case not an amount which exceeds the book value of his or her capital account on the date of sale of his or her interest) less any expenses incurred by the Partnership in connection with the sale. The Partnership shall receive the remainder of the proceeds of the sale, if any.

J. Compliance with Internal Revenue Code Section 704. Nothing in this Agreement to the contrary withstanding, the rules of Internal Revenue Code Section 704(b) and of Regulation Section 1.704-1 shall be followed in determining the partner's capital accounts.

III. Management.

A. Managing Partners.

1. The Managing Partners shall be .

2. The Tax Matters Partner shall be Partner One.

B. Voting. All Managing Partners shall have the right to vote as to the management and conduct of the business of the Partnership according to their then percentage share of capital. Except as otherwise set forth in this Agreement, a majority of such capital shall control.

C. Rights, Powers and Restrictions of Payments. No Partner without the consent of all the other partners shall:

1. Do any act in contravention of this Agreement;

2. Do any act which would make it impossible to carry on the ordinary business of the Partnership;

3. Confess judgment against the Partnership; or

4. Possess Partnership property, or assign his or her interest or rights in specific Partnership property, for other than a Partnership purpose.

D. Powers. The Managing Partners shall have the following authority:

1. To purchase, invest in, reinvest in, or otherwise acquire, and to retain, whether originally a part of the Partnership or subsequently acquired, any and all stocks, bonds, notes, or other securities, or any variety of real or personal property, including stocks or interests in investment trusts and common trust funds operated and managed by a corporate trustee, as he or she may deem advisable.

2. To obtain, sell and convey, mortgage, encumber, lease, exchange, pledge, partition, plat, subdivide, improve, repair, surrender, abandon or otherwise deal with or dispose of any and all property of any character and wherever situated forming a part of this Partnership, at such time or times and in such manner and upon such terms as, in the absolute and uncontrolled discretion of the Managing Partners may be deemed expedient and proper; to give options for the same; to execute deeds, transfers, leases, pledges, mortgages, and other instruments of any kind. Any leases and contracts may extend beyond the term of the Partnership.

3. To borrow money upon terms acceptable from any person or corporation, and to pledge or mortgage any property as security for the same and to renew any indebtedness incurred by the Managing Partners.

4. To lend moneys to any person for any purpose related to the Partnership's operations and investments upon any terms and conditions, provided that the same shall:

a. As to loans secured by first liens on real estate and fixtures, not be (i) for an amount in excess of % of fair market value; (ii) based on a rate less than the then Applicable Federal Rate; or (iii) for a period of longer than years.

b. As to loans secured by tangible personal property and accounts receivable less than days overdue, not be (i) for an amount in excess of % of fair market value; (ii) based on a rate less than the then Applicable Federal Rate; or (iii) for a period of longer than years.

c. As to other loans, not be (i) for an amount in excess of % of fair market value; (ii) based on a rate less than the then Applicable Federal Rate; or (iii) for a period of longer than years.

5. To open and to close checking or savings accounts, in banks or similar financial institutions, or safety deposit boxes in the name of a Managing Partner or in the name of a nominee, with or without indication of any fiduciary capacity; to deposit cash in and withdraw cash from such accounts or boxes, with or without indication of any fiduciary capacity; to hold such accounts and securities in bearer form, or in the name of a Managing Partner or in the name of a nominee with or without indication of any fiduciary capacity.

6. To give general or special proxies or powers of attorney for voting or acting in respect of shares or securities, which may be discretionary and with power of substitution; to deposit shares or securities with, or transfer them to, protective committees or similar bodies; and to join in any reorganization and to pay assessments or subscriptions called for in connection with shares or securities held by the Partnership.

7. To adjust, arbitrate, compromise, sue or defend, abandon or otherwise deal with and settle any and all claims in favor of or against the Partnership as the Managing Partners shall deem proper.

8. To employ investment counsel, brokers, accountants, attorneys, and any other agents to act in his or her behalf; and generally to do any act or thing and execute all instruments necessary, incidental or convenient to the proper administration of the Partnership property.

9. To make payments, division, or distribution of the Partnership property wholly or partly in kind.

10. To make employment contracts and pay pensions and establish pension and other incentive plans for any or all of its employees; provided, that no contract shall be made in favor of the Partners without the consent of % of the Partners.

E. Liability. No Partner shall incur any liability for any mistakes or errors in judgment made in good faith and in the exercise of due care in connection with the Partnership business, and no Partner shall be deemed to have violated any of the provisions of this Partnership Agreement for any such mistakes or errors in judgment.

F. Indemnification of Managing Partners and Tax Matters Partner. The Managing Partners and Tax Matters Partner, when acting in their capacity as such, shall be entitled to indemnity from the Partnership for any act performed by them within the scope of the authority conferred on them by this Agreement, except for acts of malfeasance or gross negligence or for damages arising from any misrepresentations; provided, however, that any indemnity under this Section shall be provided out of and to the extent of Partnership assets only, and no Partner shall have any personal liability with regard to the indemnity.

G. Extent of Services. The Managing Partners shall devote their entire time, attention, and energies to the business of the Partnership, and shall not during the term of this Agreement be engaged in any other business activity whether or not such business activity is pursued for gain, profit, or other pecuniary advantage, without the prior written consent of the Partner first obtained; but this shall not be construed as preventing the Managing Partners from investing, when such investment will not interfere with the Managing Partners full time employment by the Partnership.

H. Removal.

1. Some or all of the Managing Partners may be removed as Managing Partners by the Partners, but only if: ; provided, however, that a -day notice must be given to the Managing Partners spelling out to the Managing Partners those acts which have caused such removal. The moving Partner shall, in writing, submit to all of the Partners the basis upon which he or she seeks removal of the Managing Partner and the name of another person or corporation as the proposed successor Managing Partner of the Partnership. If, within days after the submission of the allegation and the proposal of substitution to all of the Partners, the Partners owning an aggregate of at least of the total capital approve such removal and proposed Partner substitution in writing, the person so proposed shall be admitted as a Managing Partner.

2. The Tax Matters Partner may be removed as Tax Matters Partner by the Partners, but only if ; provided, however, that a -day notice must be given to the Tax Matters Partner spelling out to the Tax Matters Partner those acts which have caused such removal. The moving Partner shall, in writing, submit to all of the Partners the basis upon which he or she seeks removal of the Tax Matters Partner and the name of another person as the Tax Matters Partner. If, within days after the submission of the allegation and the proposal of substitution to all of the Partners, the Partners owning an aggregate of at least of the total approve such removal and proposed Partner substitution in writing, the person so proposed shall be admitted as the Tax Matters Partner.

IV. Meetings of Partners.

A. Annual Meetings of Partners. Annual meetings of Partners, if actually held, shall be held on such date and time as shall be designated from time to time by the Partners and stated in the notice of the meeting, at which they shall transact such other business as may properly be brought before the meeting. Written notice of the annual meeting stating the place, date and hour of the meeting shall be given to each Partner entitled to vote at such meeting not less than nor more than days before the date of the meeting.

B. Special Meetings. Special meetings of Partners, for any purpose or purposes, may be held by waiver of notice and consent or may be called by a Managing Partner and shall be called by a Managing Partner at the request in writing of a Partner owning not less than % of the entire capital or profit interest of the Partnership. Such request shall state the purpose or purposes of the proposed meeting. Written notice of a special meeting stating the place, date and hour of the meeting and the purpose or purposes for which the meeting is called, shall be given not less than nor more than days before the date of the meeting, to each Partner entitled to vote at such meeting.

C. Voting. Whenever the vote of Partners at a meeting of the Partners is required or permitted to be taken for or in connection with any action, a majority shall control and the meeting and vote of Partners may be dispensed with if all of the Partners who would have been entitled to vote upon the action if such meeting were held shall consent in writing to such action taken.

V. Managing Partners. Managing Partner vacancies shall be filled by a vote of the Partners at a special meeting called for such purpose.

A. Vacancies. Partners at a special meeting called for such purpose.

B. Voting. A Managing Partner who is either present at a meeting of the Managing Partners at which action on any matter is taken, or who is absent but has notice of such action by certified mail, shall be presumed to have assented to the action taken unless his or her dissent shall be entered in the minutes of the meeting or unless he or she shall file his or her written dissent to such action with the person acting as the secretary of the meeting before the adjournment of the meeting or shall forward such dissent by certified mail to the other Managing Partners immediately after the adjournment of the meeting or within days after written notification of such action by certified mail.

C. Managing Partner Meetings. The Managing Partners may hold meetings, both regular and special, either within or without .

D. Officers.

1. Each year the Managing Partners shall elect from their number a president, a secretary and a treasurer.

2. The president shall execute all authorized conveyances, contracts, or other obligations in the name of the Partnership except where the signing and execution shall be delegated by the Managing Partners to some other officer or agent.

3. The secretary shall attend all meetings of the Partnership and record all votes and the minutes of all proceedings in a book to be kept for that purpose and shall perform like duties for the standing committees when required.

4. The treasurer shall have custody of and keep account of all money, funds and property of the Partnership unless otherwise determined by the Managing Partners.

E. Right to Admit Partners. There shall be no right to admit additional Partners, except by unanimous consent of all of the Partners.

F. Removal of Managing Partners. Some or all of the Managing Partners may be removed as Managing Partners by the Partners if: ; provided, however, that a -days' notice must be given to the Managing Partners spelling out to the Managing Partners those acts necessarily constituting violation of at which time the Managing Partner may, within the notice period, take the necessary steps to cure any violation or default and remain as Managing Partner.

G. Tax Matters Partner.

1. Name. The Tax Matters Partner shall be , who shall be succeeded upon death or unwillingness or inability to act as shall be determined by the Managing Partners.

2. Duties.

a. To provide to the Internal Revenue Service any or all information which is within the knowledge of the Tax Matters Partner as to the organization, operations or liquidation of the Partnership.

b. To adjust, arbitrate, negotiate, compromise, sue or defend, abandon or otherwise deal with and settle any and all claims in favor of or against the Partners and the Partnership as the Tax Matters Partner shall deem proper which shall directly relate to the organization, operations and/or liquidation of the Partnership.

c. To do all other things which may be granted to the Tax Matters Partner by Internal Revenue Code Sections 6221 through 6232, as they may be now or are in the future amended or supplemented.

VI. Right to Assign Partnership Interest

A. Partner's Right of Assignment of Profits and Losses. Except as provided in this Agreement, the Partnership interest shall not be assigned.

B. Transfers. The Partners shall not sell, assign, pledge or otherwise transfer or encumber in any manner or by any means whatever, and share in all or any part of the interests of the Partnership now owned or later acquired by them without having first obtained the consent of or offered it to the other Partners and to the Partnership in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Agreement.

C. Spouses Bound by Agreement. The following spouses shall be obligated as follows: . Upon a triggering event, the Partner's respective spouse shall be obligated to give to the Partnership or the Partners, as the case may be, an option to purchase the capital interest of the relevant spouse on the same terms and conditions as are set forth in this Agreement.

D. Joint Ownership. It is understood by the parties that the interest owned by some of the Partners is owned jointly by the Partner and his or her spouse. The parties agree that the spouses of the respective Partners shall in all respects be bound by this Agreement and that if a Partner is required to sell his or her interest pursuant to this Agreement, the respective spouse must comply with this Agreement and shall execute any and all documents consequently required.

E. Offer to Partner.

1. Bona Fide Offer. If any Partner is in receipt of a bona fide offer to purchase his or her interest, and shall desire to sell, assign, transfer or otherwise dispose of his or her interest without the prior written consent of the other Partners, he or she shall serve notice to such effect upon the other Partners and the Partnership by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested.

2. Price. The purchase price paid for such interest shall be as set forth in Paragraph K, below.

3. Terms. The purchase price of the interest of a Partner shall be paid as set forth in Paragraph L, below.

4. Mechanics. Upon such event, the Partnership shall have the rights and duties and the Partners shall have the rights and duties to purchase the interests of the relevant Partners using the mechanics set forth in Paragraph M, below.

F. Partner Desires to Sell.

1. Notice of Desire to Sell. If any Partner, not in receipt of a bona fide offer, shall desire to dispose of his or her interest, dissolve, make an assignment for the benefit of creditors, be adjudicated bankrupt or legally incapacitated, then at least days prior to the date he or she is to dispose of his or her interest, he or she shall serve notice upon the other Partners and upon the Partnership by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested.

2. Price. The purchase price paid for such interest shall be as set forth in Paragraph K, below.

3. Terms. The purchase price of the interest of a Partner shall be paid as set forth in Paragraph L, below.

4. Mechanics. Upon such event, the Partnership shall have the rights and duties and the Partners shall have the rights and duties to purchase the interests of the relevant Partners using the mechanics set forth in Paragraph M, below.

G. Disability.

1. If any Partner is, by reason of illness, injury or disability, unable to carry on his or her normal duties in the conduct of the Partnership business, then such inactive Partner shall be deemed permanently disabled and shall be deemed to have offered his or her capital interest as follows. Such disability shall be deemed to have occurred upon the following event: .

2. Price. The purchase price paid for such interest shall be as set forth in Paragraph K, below.

3. Terms. The purchase price of the interest of a Partner shall be paid as set forth in Paragraph L, below.

4. Mechanics. Upon such event, the Partnership shall have the rights and duties and the Partners shall have the rights and duties to purchase the interests of the relevant Partners using the mechanics set forth in paragraph M, below.

H. Death.

1. Sale. Upon the death of any Partner, the entire interest of such deceased Partner, and the estate of the decedent in the Partnership, shall be offered for sale as follows.

2. Life Insurance.

a. Insured Partners. The Partnership shall secure life insurance at its own expense, on the lives of the Partners and in the amounts set forth in the attached Exhibit A.

b. Uninsured Partners. is not being insured because it is understood that is uninsurable. If should die, the cash value of the policies, if any, on the lives of the other Partners shall be available as a source of liquidity toward the purchase of the capital interest of .

c. Modification of Insurance. The owner shall only modify or impair the rights or values under such policies with the mutual consent of the parties to this Agreement.

d. Applicable Insurance. Only insurance policies listed in this Agreement, or written amendments or written supplements to this Agreement, shall be included as insurance held pursuant to this Agreement.

3. Price. The redemption or purchase price paid for such interest shall be as set forth in Paragraph K, below.

4. Terms. The purchase price of the interest of a Partner shall be paid as set forth in Paragraph L, below.

5. Mechanics. Upon such event, the Partnership shall have the rights and duties and the Partners shall have the rights and duties to purchase the interests of the relevant Partners using the mechanics set forth in Paragraph M, below.

I. Retirement or Withdrawal before Normal Retirement.

1. If any Partner's employment with the Partnership voluntarily or involuntarily is terminated before age , then such event shall constitute an implied offer to sell his or her interest under the following price and terms.

2. Price. The purchase price paid for such capital interest shall be as set forth in Paragraph K, below.

3. Terms. The purchase price of the interest of a Partner shall be paid as set forth in Paragraph L, below.

4. Mechanics. Upon such event, the Partnership shall have the rights and duties and the Partners shall have the rights and duties to purchase the relevant Partner's interest using the mechanics set forth in Paragraph M, below.

5. Expulsion. If in the opinion of a majority in interest of the Partners, any Partner shall be guilty of misconduct of such character as to render it impracticable for the then Partners to carry on the Partnership business together, the offending Partner may be expelled from the Partnership.

J. Retirement or Withdrawal after Age .

1. If any Partner voluntarily or involuntarily terminates employment with the Partnership after age , such event shall constitute an implied offer to sell his or her interest under the following price and terms.

2. Price. The purchase price paid for such interest shall be as set forth in Paragraph K, below.

3. Terms. The purchase price of the interest of a Partner shall be paid as set forth in Paragraph L, below.

4. Mechanics. Upon such event, the Partnership shall have the rights and duties and the Partners shall have the rights and duties to purchase the interest of the relevant Partners as set forth in paragraph M, below.

K. Price.

1. The purchase price paid for an interest pursuant to the terms of this Agreement shall be calculated as follows:

a. The Partner's Partnership Value shall be determined by multiplying the Partner's Percentage Share of capital by the total Partnership Value determined by the process set forth below.

b. From such Partnership Value shall be subtracted any adjustments to be made pursuant to this Partnership Agreement to such Partner's Capital Account upon the liquidation of the Partnership or upon the sale or redemption of a Partnership interest for the fiscal year of the Partnership in question.

2. Book Value. The book value of the Partnership shall be computed in accordance with generally accepted accounting practices as consistently used by the Partnership in preparation of its financial statements, as of the close of business on the last day of the month preceding the month in which the triggering event occurs, to reflect the fair market value of all assets of the Partnership, accounts receivable and current liabilities not reflected on the books of the Partnership, other than goodwill, if any.

3. Tax Reserve. The above sum shall be reduced by a reserve equal in amount to % of the Partnership's accountant's reasonable estimate of the federal and state income taxes which will be payable by the purchaser as a result of the fact that the purchaser will not receive a deduction for the purchase of the selling Partner's interest.

4. Loan Payment. In addition to such purchase price, there shall be a repayment by the Partnership of the then outstanding balance of any sum then loaned to the Partnership by the withdrawing Partner (plus accrued interest, if any) whether or not the sums shall be then due and owing.

5. Unbooked Work. Such purchase price shall take into account the Partner's pro rata share of profit to be derived from unbilled and unbooked work, whether or not in process (based on the results of fiscal year).

6. Allocation of Assets to be Distributed upon a Triggering Event under Section 736 of the Internal Revenue Code. Upon a triggering event, the selling Partner shall receive the following sums which shall be divided by his or her share of Partnership capital:

• For his or her Partnership assets: ;

• For Partnership goodwill: ;

• For his or her share of Partnership income: ; and

• As a payment in the form of mutual insurance (i.e., a guaranteed payment not for assets): .

L. Terms.

1. The purchase price of the capital interest of a Partner shall be paid in the following manner:

a. Years Certain. In the event of a purchase of the interest of a Partner, a down payment of % of the purchase price shall be made in the year of sale. The balance of the purchase price shall be paid in of equal monthly payments interest on the unpaid balance over years. Interest shall commence days after the Partnership or the remaining Partners are required to buy the interest of the selling Partner.

b. Payment Amount Certain. In the event of a purchase of the interest of a Partner, a down payment of % of the purchase price shall be made in the year of sale. The balance of the purchase price shall be paid in equal monthly installments of $ per month, interest on the unpaid balance at the rate of % per annum. Interest shall commence days after the Partnership or the remaining Partners are required to buy the interest of the selling Partner.

2. Substantial Transfer. Provided, however, that if the purchasing Partner shall transfer or cause to be transferred substantially all of the assets of the Partnership or the interest owned by him or her or if he or she shall take a salary such as shall jeopardize the payment of the sums owed under this Agreement then the remainder of the purchase price shall become fully due and payable.

M. Mechanics.

1. Mandatory Purchase. Offers made to the Partnership and Partners upon shall be subject to the following mechanics: the selling Partner or his or her representative shall give notice of such event, and for a period of days after the mailing of such notice, the Partnership shall have the right to notify the selling Partner of its exercise of the option to purchase the interest so offered even in such cases where the Partnership shall not be obligated to act and shall notify the party that it will purchase in the event of death. If the Partnership has the option and does not elect to redeem the full amount of the interest, then the other Partners shall be required to purchase all of the interest so offered in proportion to their respective capital interests, unless they otherwise agree to a different percentage, within days after the termination of the Partnership's option to buy. In all cases, the closing shall take place within days after the date on which the Partnership or the other Partners become obligated to purchase the interest of the selling Partner at .

2. Optional Purchase. Offers made to the Partnership and Partners in the event of shall be subject to the following mechanics: the selling Partner or his or her representative shall give notice of such event and for a period of days after the mailing of such notice, the Partnership shall have the right to notify the selling Partner of its exercise of the option to redeem the interest so offered. If the Partnership does not elect to redeem the full amount of the interest offered, the other Partners shall have the option to purchase all (but not part) of the interest so offered in proportion to their respective capital interests, unless they refuse to exercise their option or otherwise agree to a different percentage, within days after the termination of the Partnership's option to buy.

a. Effect on Transferor. The transferor shall continue to be bound by the terms and provisions of this Agreement to the extent to which triggering events which relate to the transferor shall trigger the offer or sale of the interest.

b. Effect on Transferee. The transferee shall be bound by the terms and provisions of this Agreement to the extent to which triggering events which relate to the transferee shall trigger the offer or sale of the interest. For purposes of determining who shall be entitled to purchase or is bound to purchase the interest offered or to be sold, the transferee shall be so entitled or bound. In all cases, the closing shall take place days from the date on which the Partnership or the other Partners become obligated to purchase the interest of the selling Partner at .

N. Substitution of Additional Partners. Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, the assignee of the whole or any part of the Partnership interest shall not be substituted as a Partner without prior written consent of the Managing Partners.

1. Accepted and assumed, in a form satisfactory to the Managing Partners, all terms and provisions of this Agreement;

2. Provided a certified copy of a resolution of its board of directors approving the terms and provisions of this Agreement (if the assignee is a corporation);

3. Executed such other documents or instruments as may be required in order to effectuate its admission as a Partner; provided an opinion of counsel, in form and substance satisfactory to counsel for the Partnership, that neither the offering nor the assignment of the Partnership interest violates any provision of any federal or state securities law; and executed a statement that he or she is acquiring his or her interest in the Partnership for his or her own account for investment, and not with a view to sale or distribution;

4. Executed such other documents or instruments as the Managing Partners may reasonably require in order to effectuate the admission of such assignee as a Partner; and

5. Paid such reasonable expenses, which expenses are estimated to be $, as may be incurred in connection with such admission as a Partner.

O. Death, Dissolution, Withdrawal, Etc. The death, dissolution, withdrawal, assignment for the benefit of creditors, retirement, adjudication of bankruptcy or legal incapacity of a Partner shall not dissolve or terminate the Partnership. Upon any such event the financial interest of such Partner and all rights and obligations under this Agreement shall descend to and invest in the heirs, legatees or legal representatives of such Partner. Such heirs, legatees or legal representatives may be in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement.

P. Sale of More Than 50% in Any 12-Month Period. No assignment of any Partnership interest shall be effective if such assignment would result in there having occurred within a 12-month period a sale or exchange of 50% or more of the total interest in the Partnership capital and profits.

VII. Liquidation.

A. Dissolution. If the Partnership is dissolved for any reason, a full and general account of its assets, liabilities and transactions shall at once be taken. Such assets may be sold and turned into cash as soon as possible and all debts and other amounts due the Partnership collected. The proceeds then shall be applied as follows:

1. To discharge the debts and liabilities of the Partnership and the expenses of liquidation;

2. To pay each Partner or his or her legal representative any unpaid salary, drawing account, interest or profits to which he or she shall then be entitled and, in addition, to repay to any Partner his or her capital contributions in excess of his or her original capital contribution;

3. To divide the surplus, if any, among the Partners or their representatives as follows:

a. First (to the extent of each Partner's then capital account) in proportion to their then capital accounts;

b. Then according to each Partner's then Percentage Share of capital.

B. Special Allocations. Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, Internal Revenue Code Section 704 and Regulation Section 1.704, as amended, shall be followed upon liquidation of the Partnership.

C. Right to Demand Property. No Partner shall have the right to demand and receive property in kind for his or her distribution.

VIII. Miscellaneous Substantive Provision.

A. Fiscal Year; Books; Annual Financial Statements. The Partnership's fiscal year shall commence on of each year and end on of each year.

Full and accurate books of account shall be kept at such place as the Managing Partners may from time to time designate, showing the condition of the business and finances of the Partnership; and each Partner shall have access to such books of account and shall be entitled to examine them at any time during ordinary business hours. At the end of each year, the Managing Partners shall cause the Partnership's accountant to prepare a balance sheet setting forth the financial position of the Partnership as of the end of that year and a statement of operations (income and expenses) for that year. A copy of the balance sheet and statement of operations shall be delivered to each Partner as soon as it is available. Each Partner shall be deemed to have waived all objections to any transaction or other facts about the operation of the Partnership disclosed in such balance sheet or statement of operations unless he or she shall have notified the Managing Partners in writing of his or her objectives within days of the date on which such statement is mailed. The Partnership books shall be kept on the basis and in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles consistent with those employed for determining its income for federal income tax purposes.

B. Partnership's Agents. Pursuant to the Partnership's day to day activity the Managing Partners shall have the power to employ investment counsel, brokers, accountants, attorneys, and any other agents to act in the Partnership's behalf; otherwise the employment shall only be made if agreed to by all the Partners.

C. Transfers to Living Trusts. For purposes of this Agreement, any Partner may transfer his or her interest to the Partner's living trust.

D. Checks. All checks or demands for money and notes of the Partnership shall be signed by the Managing Partners or such other person or persons as the Managing Partners may from time to time designate.

E. Conflicts of Interest. Partners may engage in or possess an interest in other business ventures of every kind and description for their own accounts. Neither the Partnership nor any of the Partners shall have any rights by virtue of this Agreement in such independent business ventures or to the income or profits derived from such businesses. All Partners are to devote their full employment time to the business and affairs of the Partnership.

F. Use of Name. The name “” shall belong to and may be used by the Partnership and shall not be sold or disposed of so long as the Partnership shall continue in existence. Upon dissolution or termination of the Partnership, the Partnership name may be disposed of or shall become the property of .

G. Use of Individual Name in Firm Name. agrees that will permit the Partnership to continue the use of name within the name of the firm; provided, however, the name is so used as not to make liable for or chargeable with any of the liabilities of the business to be conducted by the Partnership.

IX. Other Miscellaneous Provisions.

A. Execution in Counterpart. This Partnership Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which shall be taken to be an original.

B. Indemnification. The Partnership shall indemnify any person who is made, or threatened to be made, a party to any action, suit or proceeding (whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative) by reason of the fact that he or she, his or her testator or intestate is or was a manager, employee or agent of the Partnership or serves or served any other enterprise at the request of the Partnership as follows: .

C. Notice. Any and all notices provided for in this Agreement shall be given in writing by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, which shall be addressed to the last address known to the sender or delivered to the recipient in person.

D. Modifications. No modification of this Agreement shall be valid unless such modification is in writing and signed by the parties to this Agreement.

E. Opinion of Counsel. The doing of any act or the failure to do any act by any Partner, if pursuant to opinion of legal counsel employed by the Managing Partners on behalf of the Partnership, shall not subject such Partner to any liability.

F. Additional Instruments. This Agreement shall be binding upon the parties to this Agreement and upon their heirs, executors, administrators, successors or assigns.

G. Amendments. This Agreement may be altered at any time by the decision of Partners holding not less than of the then capital of the Partnership confirmed by an instrument in writing, which instrument the Partners now agree to execute.

H. Banking. The Partnership shall maintain a bank account in the Partnership's name in a national or state bank in .

I. Titles and Subtitles. Titles of the Sections, paragraphs and subparagraphs of this Agreement are for convenient reference only and shall not to any extent have the effect of modifying, amending or changing the express terms and provisions of this partnership Agreement.

J. Words and Gender or Number. As used in this Agreement, unless the context clearly indicates the contrary, the singular number shall include the plural, the plural the singular, and the use of any gender shall be applicable to all genders.

K. Severability. If any parts of this Agreement are found to be void, the remaining provisions of this Agreement shall remain binding with the same effect as though the void parts were deleted.

L. Effective Date. This Agreement shall be effective only upon execution by all of the proposed Partners.

M. Execution. This Agreement may be executed by each of the Partners on a separate signature page.

N. Waiver. No waiver of any provisions of this Agreement shall be valid unless in writing and signed by the person or party against whom charged.

O. Applicable Law. This Agreement shall be subject to and governed by the laws of .

P. Agreement Binding. This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties and their respective heirs, legal representatives, executors, administrators, successors and assigns.

Q. Arbitration. No civil action concerning any dispute arising under this Agreement shall be instituted before any court and all such disputes shall be submitted to final and binding arbitration under the auspices of the American Arbitration Association, , .

WITNESS our signatures as of the day and date first above stated.

By:

By:

By:

(Attachment of exhibits)

Enter text✕

What a General Partnership Agreement Is and When It Applies

A General Partnership Agreement is a written contract between two or more partners that defines the business purpose, ownership interests, management structure, capital contributions, profit and loss allocation, and procedures for admission, withdrawal, or dissolution. Although oral partnerships can exist under state law, a written agreement reduces ambiguity, clarifies partner authority, and documents tax and banking arrangements tied to the partnership. This page focuses on U.S. legal and practical considerations for drafting, completing, executing, and retaining a General Partnership Agreement.

Why a Clear Written Agreement Matters

A written General Partnership Agreement reduces disputes, defines financial responsibilities, and clarifies decision-making authority among partners. It also supports tax compliance, banking relationships, and third-party contracts by documenting roles and predictable procedures.

Why a Clear Written Agreement Matters

Who Uses a General Partnership Agreement

General Partnership Agreements are used by small business owners who choose a partnership structure, professional service groups, and informal business teams that want clear internal rules before operations begin.

  • Small business owners forming a partnership to operate a retail, service, or consulting firm.
  • Professional groups (law, accounting, healthcare) that share revenue, costs, and management responsibilities.
  • Advisors — attorneys and accountants — preparing governance and tax-compliant partnership terms.

Use a written agreement when partners want to limit ambiguity on contributions, allocations, voting, dispute resolution, and exit procedures; consider legal review for complex allocations or outside capital.

Who Signs and Why

Managing Partner

Typically the partner(s) authorized to make day-to-day decisions and enter contracts on behalf of the partnership; signatory authority should be explicitly stated in the agreement and may be limited by dollar amount or transaction type.

Non-Managing Partner

Partners without daily management duties who retain economic rights, voting rights as defined in the agreement, and the right to inspect records; their signatures confirm consent to the partnership terms and allocations.

Key Security and Compliance Details to Record

Encryption: TLS 1.2/1.3 in transit
Data at Rest: AES-256 encrypted storage
Certifications: SOC 2 Type II available
Privacy / BAA: HIPAA BAA available
Regulated Records: 21 CFR Part 11 support
Audit Trail: Comprehensive signature history

Primary Risks from an Incomplete or Incorrect Agreement

Personal Liability: Partners may be personally liable
Tax Penalties: Late Form 1065 penalties possible
Disputes: Unclear roles increase litigation risk
Credit Risk: Unclear authority may bind partners
Invalid Provisions: Unenforceable clauses can void terms
Operational Delays: Banking or licensing delays

Common Preparation Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using vague language for capital contributions or profit splits, which creates grounds for later disputes and complicates tax reporting.
  • Failing to record decision-making authority or dollar limits for contracts, exposing all partners to unexpected obligations.
  • Omitting an exit or dissolution procedure, leaving partners without a clear method for buyouts or winding down operations.
  • Neglecting to align the agreement with tax reporting needs, such as capital account mechanics and guaranteed payments, increasing audit risk.

Core Sections to Include in a Professional Agreement

A properly structured General Partnership Agreement contains specific sections that allocate economic and managerial responsibilities clearly. Draft each section with enough detail to govern routine and exceptional situations.

Parties & Purpose

Identify each partner by full legal name and specify the partnership’s business purpose, principal place of business, and official partnership name.

Capital Contributions

State cash, property, or services contributed by each partner, valuation method, and rules for additional contributions or loans to the partnership.

Profit & Loss Allocation

Define how profits, losses, and distributions are allocated among partners; include timing and ordering of distributions.

Management & Voting

Describe management structure, voting thresholds, delegated authority, and procedures for major decisions and contracts.

Duration & Withdrawal

Set the partnership term, withdrawal and admission procedures, buyout formulas, and treatment of a partner’s interest on exit or death.

Dispute Resolution

Include governing law, mediation or arbitration clauses, and procedures for resolving deadlocks to limit litigation costs.

Step-by-Step: How to Complete a General Partnership Agreement

Follow these steps to draft, review, and execute a partnership agreement that aligns governance, tax, and banking needs.

  • 01
    Gather Information: Collect partner IDs, contribution details, and intended profit splits.
  • 02
    Draft Terms: Write capital, management, distributions, and exit mechanics clearly.
  • 03
    Legal Review: Have counsel review tax and liability provisions.
  • 04
    Execute Document: Obtain signatures and distribute final executed copies.

How to Configure the Document for Online Execution

Set up an online workflow to collect signatures, authenticate signers, and preserve a tamper-evident audit record that meets ESIGN and UETA requirements.

Field Configuration
Document Title Use explicit name and version
Signature Order Specify sequential or parallel signing
Authentication Choose email, SMS code, or stronger MFA
Retention Policy Set enforced retention and export options

Where to Send and How to Route the Executed Agreement

Decide routing and final storage before execution to ensure partners and service providers receive correct copies.

  • Send to Partners: Distribute signed copies to all partners
  • Notarize If Needed: Obtain notarization where third parties require it
  • File Local DBAs: File trade name with local county where applicable
  • Store Securely: Archive final PDFs with audit trail

Technical and Platform Considerations for eSigning

Choose a platform that supports documented audit trails, acceptable signer authentication, and exportable signed PDFs for tax and banking use.

  • File Formats: PDF, DOCX supported
  • Integrations: Connect to Google Workspace and NetSuite
  • Authentication: Email, SMS, or stronger MFA

Ensure the chosen platform supports ESIGN/UETA compliance, audit-trail export, and any industry-specific controls such as HIPAA or 21 CFR Part 11 where applicable.

Key Filing and Tax Deadlines to Track

A partnership agreement itself typically is not filed with a central registry, but partnership tax and information deadlines are time-sensitive and must be observed.

Form 1065 Partnership Return:

Due March 15 each year; file extension using Form 7004 to extend.

Schedule K-1 Delivery:

Provide K-1s to partners by Form 1065 due date (usually March 15).

Estimated Tax Payments:

Partners pay estimated individual taxes; first quarterly deadlines begin April 15.

Extension Deadline:

Approved extension for Form 1065 generally extends filing to September 15.

DBA / Fictitious Name:

Local registration timing varies; file early to open bank accounts.

Representative Use Cases

These short case examples illustrate common scenarios where a clear partnership agreement prevents disputes and supports operations.

Neighborhood Food Truck Partners

Two friends form a food truck partnership to share capital and shifts

  • One partner funds equipment, the other manages operations
  • A written agreement set contribution values, profit splits, and a buyout formula, preventing a later dispute when one partner sought outside investors.

Real Estate Investment Team

Three investors pooling capital to rehab properties

  • One partner handles contracting, others provide capital
  • The agreement defined capital accounts, distribution waterfall, and sale procedures, enabling timely refinancing and clean K-1 reporting for each tax year.

Practical Tips for Accurate and Efficient Completion

Follow these best practices to reduce errors, speed execution, and ensure the agreement supports tax and operational needs.

Be Specific
Use precise contribution amounts, distribution timing, and valuation methods to avoid ambiguity and audit exposure; avoid vague phrases like 'reasonable value.'
Align with Tax Reporting
Structure capital accounts and guaranteed payments to match partner tax filings; consult a tax advisor for complex allocations.
Document Authority
Explicitly state who can sign contracts, open bank accounts, or bind the partnership to limit unauthorized obligations.
Keep Exhibits
Attach schedules (capital contributions, asset lists) as exhibits so updates don’t require rewriting the main agreement.

eSignature Platform Pricing and Feature Snapshot

Common eSignature features for executing partnership agreements vary by vendor; signNow is listed first for parity in comparison. Verify current plans with each vendor before purchasing.

signNow DocuSign Adobe Sign PandaDoc HelloSign
Starting Price $8/user/mo $15/user/mo $14/user/mo $19/user/mo $15/user/mo
Free Trial 7-day free trial (no card) Varies by plan Varies by plan Varies by plan Varies by plan
Bulk Send Yes (Business Premium+) Yes Yes Yes No
Audit Trail Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
HIPAA Compliant Yes Yes Yes No No

Frequently Asked Questions About General Partnership Agreements

Answers to common execution, validity, and administrative questions about partnership agreements and electronic signatures.


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