We conduct internal and independent due diligence investigations, whether related to a merger, acquisition, internal employment issue, fundraising, or research.
One of the must important parts of any business transaction is conducting thorough due diligence. Whether you're acquiring a new business, entering into a partnership, or considering a substantial investment, due diligence serves as the in-depth research phase. This step ensures you have a comprehensive understanding of the legal, financial, and operational aspects of the business in question. It allows you to evaluate the potential risks and opportunities and make informed decisions.
Due diligence extends to many areas, including financial, legal, operational, and strategic aspects of a business. Financial due diligence, for example, may involve a detailed examination of the target company's financial statements, tax returns, and any off-balance-sheet liabilities. Legal due diligence, on the other hand, focuses on understanding the legal risks associated with the transaction, such as pending litigation, regulatory compliance issues, and intellectual property rights. This process includes review of various documents, including contracts, bylaws, and corporate filings, as well as applicable laws, such as the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 for public companies, or the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) that governs commercial transactions in the United States.
In the context of mergers and acquisitions (M&A), due diligence is a fundamental part of the process. According to the American Bar Association's Model Stock Purchase Agreement, due diligence is a key aspect of M&A transactions and requires an in-depth analysis of the target company's assets, liabilities, contracts, employees, and potential post-transaction liabilities.
The emergence of technology and digital platforms has added another layer to the due diligence process. Cybersecurity risks, data privacy concerns, and intellectual property rights associated with digital assets are now paramount considerations. Regulations such as the European General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) or the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) impose strict standards for data handling, emphasizing the need for data privacy and security due diligence.
At Goldstein Law, we bring comprehensive expertise to assist clients in performing detailed and effective due diligence. Our team is well-versed in examining a wide range of legal and business issues, from contract review and compliance checks to financial scrutiny and intellectual property evaluations. For example, when assessing compliance risks, we take into consideration laws such as the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) and regulations set by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Our aim is to provide our clients with a thorough understanding of the risks and opportunities associated with their proposed transactions or investments, enabling informed decisions that align with their strategic goals. Whether you're a tech entrepreneur, small business owner, or an angel investor, Goldstein Law is ready to help navigate the complexities of the due diligence process.
We are available by phone, chat, video or email.