Business Acquisitions
Legal Guidance for Confident Business Purchases
Buying a business can be one of the most important-and complex-decisions you make. Whether you're acquiring a small local company or expanding into a larger venture, every deal comes with legal risks and fine print that need careful attention. We help clients evaluate opportunities with clarity and confidence.
At The Law Offices of Michael M. Kaplan, we provide practical legal support throughout the acquisition process. From due diligence and negotiations to contract drafting and closing, we ensure your interests are protected every step of the way. We've worked with business owners, investors, and entrepreneurs across Massachusetts to close deals cleanly, avoid hidden liabilities, and lay a strong foundation for future success.
What to Expect During a Business Acquisition-And How We Help
There's more to a business deal than just signing on the dotted line. We help you review financials, assess risk, and understand everything from intellectual property ownership to employee agreements. Our role is to identify potential red flags before they become legal headaches.
Attorney Michael Kaplan brings years of experience to the table and has seen how acquisition deals can go off track when legal issues are overlooked. He'll help you structure the deal properly-whether it's an asset purchase, stock sale, or merger-and negotiate terms that protect your bottom line. We're also available to communicate directly with brokers, accountants, and the other party's counsel to keep the process smooth and efficient.
And just as importantly, we're here to explain things clearly. You'll never be left wondering what a clause means or what your next step should be.
Key Legal Issues We Help Buyers Navigate
Due Diligence Reviews
We review key documents-contracts, leases, licenses, tax records, and more-to spot issues before they become your problem. Proper due diligence reduces surprises and helps you negotiate from a position of strength.
Purchase & Sale Agreements
We draft and review all purchase documentation to ensure terms are clearly defined, responsibilities are fair, and your risk is minimized. If a seller tries to include one-sided language, we'll catch it.
Liability & Indemnity Terms
We help you avoid inheriting unwanted debt, lawsuits, or regulatory problems by structuring indemnification and risk transfer clauses effectively.
Employee & Contractor Agreements
We ensure the transition plan accounts for existing employees, non-compete clauses, and continued operations-so your business runs smoothly post-purchase.
Licensing, Permits & Approvals
We identify regulatory or industry-specific requirements that must be met for the acquisition to go through and help you stay compliant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a lawyer if I'm buying a small or family-owned business?
Yes. Even small acquisitions can carry hidden liabilities, unclear ownership rights, or poorly drafted contracts. We can help you avoid common pitfalls, protect your personal finances, and make sure the transition is legally sound.
What if I already signed a letter of intent or term sheet?
That's okay. A letter of intent isn't usually binding, but it's still important to have an attorney review the details before moving forward. We can work from your existing agreement to build a thorough and enforceable purchase contract.
What's the difference between an asset sale and a stock sale?
In an asset sale, you buy specific business assets (like equipment, inventory, or customer lists), usually without taking on liabilities. In a stock sale, you acquire the entire business entity-including debts or obligations. We'll help you understand which structure works best for your goals.
Every deal is different. If you're considering buying a business, get legal advice early in the process so you can move forward with confidence.
Ready to Talk?
If you're preparing to buy a business in Massachusetts, we're here to help. Call (508) 473-1161 to schedule a consultation and get experienced legal guidance on your acquisition. We'll review your deal, flag any legal concerns, and walk you through next steps in plain language.