Mergers and Acquisitions

The life cycle of a business can go in many different directions. Mergers and acquisitions are relatively common transactions in which, as the terms suggest, one company is merged with or acquired by another. Whether you are doing the acquiring or being acquired, there are several legal issues that can arise and it is essential to seek the advice and counsel of an experienced business attorney.

At Lee Law PC, our Montana mergers and acquisitions lawyers help businesses navigate a wide range of legal issues. We take the time to understand each client’s individual circumstances to craft a legal strategy designed to meet their specific needs. Our attorneys have decades of experience, ensuring that our clients’ rights and interests are protected and advanced every step of the way.

We understand that facing a merger or acquisition can be daunting. Our lawyers guide businesses through the legal process with experience and personalized attention. We take pride in helping the companies we represent plan for the future and resolve legal matters efficiently.

Mergers vs. Acquisition

Although the two terms are often used together—and sometimes interchangeably—there are some important differences between mergers and acquisitions.

A merger happens when two businesses combine to form a new, single entity. They happen for a wide range of strategic reasons, from eliminating a competitor to harnessing resources and various business advantages. These transactions generally occur amicably, as both companies have decided to combine.

There may be some questions, however, about how members of each business fit into the management structure of the new company. In a merger, each company’s leaders agree to give up some of their authority when the new entity is formed. That is one reason why mergers are less common than acquisitions.

In an acquisition, one company takes control of another. These are often hostile takeovers, in which the acquiring company moves aggressively to buy up stock and take a controlling ownership stake in the business. In other cases, however, a business may agree to be acquired at a certain price. Acquisitions typically happen through the purchase of a company’s stock and/or assets.

Unlike a merger—in which the two companies each have a say in how the new business is run—a company that acquires another business usually takes decision making control over the acquired business’s operations. This can create concerns and confusion for investors, customers and employees. Many acquisitions are touted as “mergers” to make it look like two equally situated businesses have voluntarily agreed to join forces.

How our Montana Mergers and Acquisitions Lawyers Can Help

No matter how the deal is structured, there are several legal implications that come with a merger or acquisition, which is why it is vital to have a seasoned attorney in your corner.

At Lee Law Office PC, our Montana mergers and acquisitions lawyers represent companies large and small in a full range of transactions. Our lawyers work tirelessly to protect our clients’ rights and resolve disputes without drawn-out courtroom fights whenever possible.

Our office is conveniently located on Main Street in Shelby. Contact us online or call us at 406-434-5244 to speak with an attorney today.