Overview
Due diligence aims to uncover any financial or regulatory obligations or existing disputes that might transfer with the target entity, so the acquiring party or investor enters the deal fully informed rather than facing surprises later.
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The review extends beyond financial statements alone to include existing contracts, licenses, and any potential dispute that might affect the deal's value or business continuity afterward.
Regulatory Basis
This review draws on a full examination of the company's founding documents, existing contracts, and records with relevant regulatory bodies.
How We Conduct Due Diligence
The lawyers request a full document list from the target entity, then review it carefully to identify any hidden risk or obligation that might affect the deal decision.
Who Needs This Service
A company planning to acquire another entity that needs thorough due diligence before committing to the deal.
An investor planning a major investment in an existing company who needs an independent assessment of its legal position before committing.
Some investors limit due diligence to a financial review alone, overlooking a review of existing contracts and actual licenses held by the target entity, a review that might uncover an obligation not visible in financial statements, like an automatic termination clause in a key contract triggered by a change of ownership, which could affect business continuity immediately after the deal closes.
Additional Considerations
This process connects directly with the mergers and acquisitions service as an essential part of structuring any deal.
For reviewing the target entity's internal governance, this connects with the corporate governance and compliance service.
Common Questions
How long does legal due diligence take?
This depends on the target entity's size and business complexity, and the lawyers give a realistic timeline after understanding the deal's scope.
What if the review reveals material risks?
The lawyers provide a report clearly summarizing these risks, so the client decides based on it whether to proceed with the deal, adjust its terms, or withdraw.