BY JOHN KIRITSIS, ESQ., CPA, MBA, MS, JD, LL.M
The Business Judgment Rule is a legal principle that applies to the decision-making of the board of directors or board of managers of a cooperative corporation (co-op) in New York City (NYC) and other jurisdictions. It provides a level of protection to board members by presuming that their decisions are made in good faith and with reasonable care, in the best interests of the co-op and its shareholders. Here’s an overview of the Business Judgment Rule as it applies to NYC co-ops:
- Protection for Board Decisions:
The Business Judgment Rule is designed to shield board members from personal liability for their decisions, as long as those decisions are made in good faith, with due care, and in the best interests of the co-op.
- Presumption of Reasonableness:
Under the Business Judgment Rule, courts presume that board decisions are reasonable and made in the co-op’s best interests. This presumption can be overcome only if it can be proven that the board’s decision was made in bad faith, was a result of self-dealing, or was grossly negligent.
- Factors Considered:
When evaluating whether the Business Judgment Rule applies, courts consider factors such as:
Whether the decision was within the scope of the board’s authority.
Whether the board acted with care, diligence, and in an informed manner.
Whether there was a conflict of interest or self-dealing.
Whether the decision was made in good faith and with the co-op’s best interests in mind.
- Conflicts of Interest:
While the Business Judgment Rule offers protection, board members should be cautious when dealing with conflicts of interest. If a board member stands to benefit personally from a decision, it could lead to a challenge to the application of the rule.
- Scope of Application:
The Business Judgment Rule applies primarily to decisions made within the scope of the board’s authority, such as matters related to financial management, building maintenance, policy-making, and other operational aspects of the co-op.
- Limits of the Rule:
The Business Judgment Rule does not provide blanket immunity. If a board’s decision is proven to be a breach of fiduciary duty, illegal, or in violation of the co-op’s governing documents, the protection of the rule may not apply.
- Protecting Board Decisions:
To ensure the application of the Business Judgment Rule, board members should:
Act in good faith and in the co-op’s best interests.
Make informed decisions based on relevant information and expert advice.
Avoid conflicts of interest or disclose them transparently.
Document decision-making processes and considerations.
- Legal Consultation:
Legal advice is crucial for board members to understand their responsibilities and the application of the Business Judgment Rule. Attorneys specializing in co-op law can provide guidance on compliance with the rule and best practices for effective decision-making.
It’s important to note that while the Business Judgment Rule provides a level of protection, board members should always act responsibly, ethically, and in accordance with their fiduciary duties to the co-op and its shareholders. Laws and regulations can vary, so consulting with legal professionals familiar with NYC co-op law is recommended for accurate and up-to-date information.
Citations, References and Potentially Useful Resources for Further Information:
U.S. Constitution
New York State Constitution
Federal Securities Regulation
New York State Martin Act
New York Condominium Act
New York State Security Regulations
New York Business Corporation Law
New York Limited Liability Company Law
New York Uniform Partnership Act
Federal Internal Revenue Code
New York State Tax Laws, Rules & Regulations
New York City Tax Laws, Rules & Regulations
Winston Churchill Owners, Inc. v. Regents Real Estate Associates
Board of Managers of the Park Regis Condominium v. Park Regis Owners Corp.
Park Sutton Condominium v. 447 E. 57th St. LLC
28 E. 10th Street Corp. v. Veras
Riverside Syndicate, Inc. v. Munroe
Essex House Condominium v. Marks
The Parc Vendome Condominium v. Atkinson
54-56 Meserole Street Owners Corp. v. Rossi
The Beekman Regent Condominium v. Bottiglieri
Chelsea 19th LLC v. West 19th Street Realty LLC
ACRIS
New York Department of Finance
New York City Department of Buildings
New York City Bar Association
New York State Bar Association
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