Stephen F. Later, a partner at Robbins May & Rich in Pinehurst, testified before the Judiciary Committee of the state Senate on April 6 about proposed legislation related to remedies in business contracts.

Later answered senators' questions about related provisions in North Carolina and Delaware business law as the members of the Judiciary Committee debated the proposed legislation.

"I appreciated the opportunity to answer their questions," he said. "The proposal was important to maintain North Carolina as an attractive environment in which to do business."

Later was invited to participate in the hearing based on his experience with business contracts and his involvement with the Business Law Council of the North Carolina Bar Association.

He is a two-term member of the Business Law Council of the North Carolina Bar Association.

The 12 members of the Business Law Council serve as the board of directors for the Business Law Section of the North Carolina Bar Association. Later is also a member of the Committee on LLCs, Partnerships and Unincorporated Entities of the American Bar Association.

Later represents business and nonprofit corporations, limited liability companies and other entities. He advises clients in matters including corporate governance, government and private-sector contract law, mergers and acquisitions, asset and equity sales and private equity placements.

He also assists business clients in the creation of succession planning strategies (including tax-efficient plans for transfers of ownership and control of businesses) for owners of privately held businesses that anticipate generational change.

Robbins May & Rich represents a clientele that ranges from individuals and families to large private and public institutions.