Mergers and acquisitions
A first meeting is without obligation
Book a meetingThe deal, and what comes next
An acquisition is about more than just the purchase price. Warranties, indemnities, earn-outs and the position of the management determine whether a deal will be successful even after closing. We guide buyers and sellers in the SME sector through the entire process: from letter of intent and due diligence to purchase agreement and completion.
We negotiate keenly but constructively. An acquisition is a collaboration for the years to come, not a battle you win on the day of signing.
How we can help
Preparing your company for sale, letter of intent (LOI) and confidentiality, due diligence, share purchase agreement (SPA) and asset transactions, management buy-out and buy-in, investment rounds and shareholders' agreements after the deal.
Through our international network, we also guide cross-border transactions.
Sub-areas
Recent work
Sale of a The Hague-based software company to a strategic buyer, including due diligence, purchase agreement and closing. From the introductory meeting to completion in four months.
Frequently asked questions
What does an M&A lawyer do?
An M&A lawyer guides companies through mergers and acquisitions. This includes structuring the transaction, due diligence, negotiating and drafting contracts (LOI, SPA), and providing guidance at closing. The lawyer represents the interests of the buying or selling party throughout the entire process.
What is due diligence in an acquisition?
Due diligence is the investigation of a business prior to an acquisition. It involves examining the legal, financial, tax and operational aspects of the target company. The aim is to identify risks and to substantiate the purchase price and warranties.
What is included in an SPA (Share Purchase Agreement)?
An SPA (Share Purchase Agreement) contains all the agreements concerning the share transfer: purchase price and payment terms, warranties and indemnities, conditions for closing, non-compete clauses, and dispute resolution arrangements. The SPA is the central document in a share transaction.
How long does an acquisition take?
An acquisition takes on average 3 to 9 months, depending on its complexity. Simple transactions can be quicker, while complex deals involving many parties or regulators can take longer. Factors include the scope of the due diligence and the negotiations over the SPA.
What does an M&A lawyer cost?
The costs depend on the complexity and size of the transaction. Helder Advocatuur works with transparent rates and discusses the expected costs in advance. For larger transactions, we often work with a fixed price or a price cap for predictability.