A mergers and acquisitions lawyer advises businesses on buying, selling, merging, or restructuring companies and business assets. M&A attorneys may assist with transaction structure, due diligence, purchase agreements, negotiations, financing arrangements, regulatory requirements, closing documents, and post-closing obligations. The lawyer's role depends on the size, complexity, and structure of the deal.
M&A attorneys can assist throughout different stages of a business transaction, including:
| Transaction | General Structure |
|---|---|
| Asset Purchase | The buyer acquires selected assets and potentially specified liabilities of a business. |
| Stock Purchase | The buyer acquires ownership interests in the company itself. |
| Merger | Two business entities combine through a legally structured transaction. |
An M&A lawyer may review:
Consider consulting an M&A attorney when:
Choose an attorney whose experience matches the size, structure, industry, and complexity of your proposed transaction.
Relevant M&A Experience
Industry Knowledge
Due Diligence Experience
Negotiation Skills
Clear Fee Structure
What does a mergers and acquisitions lawyer do?
An M&A lawyer helps clients structure, negotiate, document, and complete business acquisitions, sales, mergers, and related transactions. Attorneys may also coordinate due diligence, regulatory matters, financing issues, and closing requirements.
When should I hire an M&A lawyer?
Consider involving an attorney before signing significant transaction documents. Early legal review can help evaluate deal structure, identify risks, review a letter of intent, and prepare for due diligence and negotiations.
What is due diligence in an acquisition?
Due diligence is the process of reviewing important legal, financial, operational, and business information before completing a transaction. Legal due diligence can identify contractual obligations, liabilities, disputes, ownership issues, and other risks.
Can an M&A lawyer represent a business being sold?
Yes. M&A attorneys can represent sellers by preparing the company for the transaction, responding to due diligence, negotiating purchase agreements, addressing buyer concerns, and assisting through closing.
Do all mergers require government approval?
No. Regulatory requirements depend on factors such as transaction size, industry, structure, and competitive effects. Certain larger transactions may be subject to federal premerger notification and review requirements.