M&A & Strategic Transaction Legal Services
Structure deals that create real value beyond headline numbers.
What Are M&A Legal Services?
Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) legal services encompass the legal work required to buy, sell, or combine companies. This includes everything from initial deal structuring and due diligence through definitive agreements, closing mechanics, and post-transaction integration.
Having worked on both buy-side and sell-side transactions, we understand what drives value in deals and where negotiations typically succeed or fail. We focus on structuring transactions that create lasting value, not just getting to closing.
Our M&A Services
Buy-Side Representation
Acquire companies and assets strategically while managing risk.
- Target evaluation and deal structuring
- Due diligence coordination and risk assessment
- Purchase agreement negotiation
Sell-Side Representation
Position for value and represent your interests in exits and divestitures.
- Exit planning and preparation
- Data room preparation and management
- Disclosure and rep & warranty negotiation
Joint Ventures & Partnerships
Structure strategic relationships for mutual benefit.
- JV structuring and governance
- Contribution and ownership terms
- Exit and dissolution provisions
Post-Merger Integration
Navigate the legal complexities of combining operations.
- Contract assignment and novation
- Employee transition and retention
- Regulatory filings and approvals
Frequently Asked Questions
What does M&A legal counsel do for startups?
M&A legal counsel for startups handles all legal aspects of buying, selling, or merging companies. This includes deal structuring, due diligence, negotiating purchase agreements, managing representations and warranties, coordinating closing conditions, and handling post-merger integration. Good M&A counsel protects your interests while keeping deals on track.
How long does a typical M&A transaction take?
M&A transactions typically take 3-6 months from letter of intent to closing, though this varies significantly based on deal complexity, regulatory requirements, and due diligence findings. Simpler asset purchases may close in 6-8 weeks, while complex strategic acquisitions with regulatory approval requirements can take 9-12 months or longer.
What is the difference between asset and stock purchases?
In an asset purchase, the buyer acquires specific assets and assumes specific liabilities, leaving the legal entity intact. In a stock purchase, the buyer acquires the company's shares, gaining ownership of the entire entity including all assets and liabilities. Each structure has different tax implications, liability exposure, and complexity levels.
When should founders start planning for an exit?
Founders should start exit planning 2-3 years before their target exit date. This allows time to optimize corporate structure, clean up cap table issues, strengthen IP protection, establish clean financial records, and address any legal liabilities that could reduce valuation or complicate due diligence.
M&A Across Industries
We support strategic transactions across our focus industries, each with distinct deal dynamics and valuation drivers.
Considering a Strategic Transaction?
Let's discuss how to structure a deal that creates lasting value.
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