corporate

We work with our clients at every stage of the business lifecycle, from initial funding to growth through merger, acquisition, joint ventures, to management buy-outs and share options. We also advise on a variety of funding options, working closely with other professionals to develop tailored commercial solutions.

Mergers & Aquisitions

A significant proportion of the corporate team's time is spent advising on mergers, acquisitions and disposals. Our team of over 30 lawyers advise on all aspects of mergers, acquisitions and disposals. Our clients include family owned and run businesses, individuals, private and publicly owned companies, financial institutions and private equity houses. Whether you are looking to do an MBO (Management Buy Out), MBI (Management Buy In), merger, acquisition or disposal we have the expertise to advise you on all aspects of the transaction from initial negotiations to completion. Due to our considerable experience in this area, we can also provide advice to our clients on negotiating strategy through to the common mistakes and pitfalls to be avoided in order to ensure a successful completion.

Corporate Governance

Corporate governance has become increasingly important in recent years, as shareholders and other investors have realised its importance in protecting their investment in a company. Ensuring your company is compliant with corporate governance principles can therefore help attract, or re-assure, outside investors that your company is a stable, well-run business. Additionally, having good governance procedures in place can help prevent directors from falling foul of their legal responsibilities and incurring personal liabilities. Clarke Willmott has considerable experience of corporate governance issues, and can advise you on matters including: directors' duties (this is an area of particular importance following the Companies Act 2006); board structures; and the Combined Code.

Public Market & Listings

We act for a number of AIM listed clients, and advise on such matters as admissions to AIM, reverse takeovers and secondary fund raisings, as well as advising on general ongoing regulatory issues relating to such matters as the AIM rules and the model code on directors’ dealings. Our lawyers have also advised on listings and fundraisings to the Official List of the London Stock Exchange and Takeovers governed by the City Code on Takeovers and Mergers. We have also acted on grooming companies in preparation for listing as well as private placings for non listed vehicles taking advantage of exemptions from the Prospectus Rules and prohibition on Financial Promotions contained in the Financial Services and Markets Act.

Contact: Jane Oakland