M&A counsel reduces risk by thorough due diligence, contract design, and post-closing integration planning. It helps preserve value, maintain regulatory compliance, and align with financial and tax considerations. A thoughtful process can prevent disputes, clarify responsibilities, and support smoother transitions for employees, customers, and suppliers.
Improved valuation through comprehensive due diligence and market benchmarking helps justify price and terms.
We have a client-centered approach, detailed due diligence, and clear communication from initial discussions to closing. Our team focuses on practical results and transparent collaboration.
Post-merger integration, governance realignment, and performance tracking to measure success, adjust plans, and sustain momentum.
A typical deal timeline starts with strategy definition, initial contacts, and letters of intent, followed by due diligence and financing arrangements. This phase often lasts 4-8 weeks depending on complexity and readiness. Negotiations, drafting of definitive agreements, regulatory approvals, and closing add another 4-8 weeks. Post-closing integration planning runs concurrently. Timeframes vary by industry, deal size, and coordination among counsel, bankers, and advisors.
Yes; disclosures are necessary but should be carefully controlled through NDAs and defined data rooms. We structure due diligence to balance information sharing with protection and ensure representations align with what is being evaluated. Proper sequencing helps protect trade secrets while enabling informed decisions.
Value in M&A is driven by cash flow potential, synergies, market position, and risk mitigation. We assess assets, liabilities, contracts, and competitive dynamics to model price and terms. Independent analyses, industry benchmarks, and robust diligence support fair negotiation and sustainable value creation.
A letter of intent outlines intent to proceed and key deal terms but is typically non-binding except for confidentiality and exclusivity clauses. It provides a framework for due diligence and negotiations. Depending on the jurisdiction and terms, certain provisions may be binding, so clarity is essential.
Integration planning after closing aligns governance, systems, and cultures to realize anticipated synergies. Early planning covers organizational structure, IT compatibility, finance processes, and communication strategies to minimize disruption and accelerate value realization for employees and customers.
Asset purchases limit exposure to liabilities and focus on valuable assets, while stock purchases offer control and continuity of contracts. The choice depends on liability risk, tax implications, and integration strategy. We evaluate each option against strategic goals and regulatory considerations to guide decision-making.
Maryland and federal antitrust rules, sector-specific regulations, and industry licensing shape many deals. We assess regulatory hurdles early, prepare required filings, and coordinate with authorities to avoid delays. Cross-border considerations, if any, add additional layers of review and compliance requirements.
Yes. Smaller businesses can participate in M&A, though deal size and complexity are scaled to capacity. We tailor diligence, financing, and documentation to fit the organization, ensuring clarity of terms, risk allocation, and achievable post-close integration milestones.
Bring corporate records, financial statements, contracts with material terms, key employee information, and a list of known liabilities. Having financial forecasts, tax considerations, and integration goals ready helps the team evaluate options and accelerate the process.
To discuss your goals, call or email our Arbutus office to schedule a consultation. You can also complete the form on our site, and a member of the M&A team will respond promptly to arrange a meeting and review next steps.
