Navigating Dental Contracts: Associates, Buy-ins, and Beyond

In this Blog I will speak about Associates negotiating their first job or owners bringing on partners.

This will help you strategize and protect long-term interests.

Key Words:

• “dental associate contract review”

• “buy-in agreement dentist California”

• “partnership contracts for dentists”

• Why every contract should be reviewed by an attorney who understands dental

• Common red flags seen (non-competes, productivity clauses, ownership terms)

• The cost of not negotiating with clarity

  CTA: “Before you sign, let’s ensure your contract supports your future, not hinders it.”

⚖️ Navigating Dental Contracts: Associates, Buy-Ins, and Beyond

By Steve Barrabee, Esq.

The Contract is the Foundation of Your Future

Whether you're entering your first associate agreement or considering buying into a practice, your contract defines your future. And yet, many dentists sign legally binding agreements that are vague, one-sided, or simply misunderstood.

Having worked with hundreds of healthcare professionals, I’ve seen how the right legal guidance — early on — can protect your career, your finances, and your peace of mind. This article highlights some of the most important considerations when it comes to dental contracts, partnerships, and buy-in arrangements.

🔍 “It’s a Standard Agreement” — Until It Isn’t

One of the most common phrases I hear from dentists is,

“It looked like a standard contract, so I signed it.”

The truth is: there is no such thing as a standard agreement — not when your personal risk, income, and mobility are involved. What appears simple on the surface often contains ambiguous language or missing terms that only become a problem after a dispute arises.

Even well-meaning employers or partners may use templates that don’t match your actual working relationship. Having a dental-focused attorney review the agreement ensures your rights and responsibilities are clearly defined — and fair.

💼 Associate Agreements: What You Should Look Out For

Employment contracts for dental associates may seem straightforward, but they often carry long-term consequences. Pay close attention to:

• Termination clauses: Can they let you go “without cause”? What notice is required?

• Production benchmarks vs guaranteed salary: Is your base income protected? How is production calculated?

• Non-compete and non-solicitation clauses: Are you restricted from practicing nearby? For how long?

• Promises of future equity: Is there a defined path to ownership, or just vague language?

You shouldn’t have to guess how your contract will affect your career two years from now — let alone five.

🤝 Partnership & Buy-In Agreements: More Than Just Numbers

Joining a practice as a partner is an exciting step. But without legal safeguards, it can quickly become a source of stress — or loss.

A solid buy-in agreement should answer questions like:

• How is the practice valued, and who decides?

• What happens if a partner wants to leave?

• Is ownership tied to performance, years of service, or capital contribution?

• Who controls major decisions, finances, and future hires?

• Can one partner force a buy-out or dissolution?

You are not just buying into a business — you’re entering into a legal and financial relationship. Don’t sign without clarity.

🛡️ Protect Your Investment (and Reputation)

Your contract is not just a formality — it's a tool of protection, and often the first thing reviewed in the event of conflict, regulatory investigation, or partnership split.

In California especially, the Dental Board, employment laws, and business codes all intersect. I’ve represented dentists in everything from friendly buy-ins to messy dissolutions, and in almost every case, it came down to what the contract said — or didn’t say.

✅ Final Thoughts: Don’t Sign Blindly

Whether you’re:

• Accepting a new associate role

• Offering a buy-in opportunity

• Preparing to sell your practice

• Negotiating a transition

…it’s worth having your contract reviewed by someone who understands dentistry, California law, and what can go wrong.

📞 Let’s Talk

Before you sign, let’s ensure your contract reflects your goals — not just the other party’s template. I offer strategic counsel to help dentists protect their careers and make confident business decisions.

Ready to talk? Contact me or call my office today.