When contemplating or preparing for a transaction it is important that an experienced team is assembled. While the M&A advisor handles preparation, presentation, marketing, negotiation and the other myriad phases involved with the transaction, other expertise is needed.
It is critical that the legal team be led by an experienced transactional attorney. Larger firms may assemble a team for the legal documents. The individual not only takes the lead on the purchase documents and ancillary documents, but will also review the company for proper corporate record keeping and other review of the company for any possible roadblocks on the way to the transaction.
The third part of the team is a competent accountant. In addition to making sure all the financial reporting is correct and up-to-date, financial due diligence is a critical component of every transaction. Your accountant will also be involved with asset allocation negotiation and will help execute the transaction in the most tax efficient manner.
Last, a good financial advisor is a must. Often the sale of a business is the exiting owner’s largest liquidity event, and it is essential that the plan for the proceeds is prepared prior to the closing.