MERGERS AND
ACQUISITIONS

Mergers and Acquisitions

New ventures. Steps forward. Turning the next page. The world of mergers and acquisitions is all about growth – it’s an exciting place to be.

It can also feel daunting. Whether you’re a thriving startup or a multi-billion dollar corporation, a merger or acquisition represents both a serious decision about the future and a complex business transaction.

If you’re deciding to downsize or grow your company, you don’t have to work through all the details alone: the team at Odom Law Group, APLC, knows M&A deals inside and out. We’re here to help with every aspect and detail, so you can take your next steps with peace of mind – and enjoy the process.

What is a merger vs. an acquisition?

Both mergers and acquisitions transfer or consolidate ownership of a business. Generally, a merger represents joining two companies that are more or less equal in size. In an acquisition, one company tends to be larger than the other.

Mergers often create a new entity: neither of the companies involved keeps their old identity. Both choose to move forward together. Acquisitions, on the other hand, usually absorb or integrate a smaller company. That company might keep its structure and even its legal name, and just shift its ownership. It also might simply become part of the bigger business.

What is a merger vs. an acquisition?

Both mergers and acquisitions transfer or consolidate ownership of a business. Generally, a merger represents joining two companies that are more or less equal in size. In an acquisition, one company tends to be larger than the other.

Mergers often create a new entity: neither of the companies involved keeps their old identity. Both choose to move forward together. Acquisitions, on the other hand, usually absorb or integrate a smaller company. That company might keep its structure and even its legal name, and just shift its ownership. It also might simply become part of the bigger business.

Odom Law Group, APLC |  Knows Mergers and Acquisition deals inside and out.

Mergers and Acquisitions in California

In California, mergers and acquisitions can be particularly complex transactions. They often require multiple levels of approvals, all of which require key preparation. To avoid delays, lawsuits, and other frustration, it’s important to manage any of the following:

  • Federal and California State Approval
  • Acquisition Agreements and Disputes
  • Negotiating Agreements
  • Shareholder Approval or Lawsuits
  • Misrepresentations
  • Non-Compete Clauses

 

Types of Corporate Mergers

The state of California recognizes not just one, but three distinct types of corporate mergers.
Each one serves its own unique purpose, and suits a different kind of business arrangement.

Horizontal Mergers
This type of merger is all about market share. A good solution for two companies who work in the same field and offer something similar to their clients, a horizontal merger essentially means that their powers combine! One company now has double the customers, shares a single pool of resources, and saves on costs.

Vertical Mergers
Vertical Mergers focus on process. This type of transaction combines companies who share an industry, but work in their own distinct spaces. By bringing their businesses together, it’s possible to skip a step of the supply chain or make production more efficient. An almond grower merging with a snack company provides a perfect example: the two specialize in very different things, but together, their process as a single entity could eliminate a lot of steps – and opportunities for problems.

Concentric Mergers
A concentric merger doesn’t require companies to have anything in common at all! Also known as a congeneric merger, this arrangement focuses on the possibility of building a broader market base, or perhaps capitalizing on marketing or communications power. It makes the connection to open opportunities that didn’t otherwise exist.

At Odom Law Group, APLC

We have significant experience with mergers and acquisitions of companies, particularly with public companies. The team at Odom Law Group, APLC, bring extensive experience to all aspects of your M&A deal, including:

  • Structuring the transaction
  • Managing taxes and securities
  • Negotiating the transaction
  • Managing securities filings
  • Closing the transaction

 

About Our Practice

At Odom Law Group, APLC, our work is rooted in real-world impact. We erase the line between partnership and professionalism: as your advisors, we’re here for you. As you work through your merger or acquisition, we’ll be by your side to answer questions, offer insight, and set you up for success. Leverage our legal expertise to step into the future with complete confidence, and know that every detail has been thoroughly handled.

Our team is proud to practice in trust administration, probate, retail store representation, business law, estate planning, trademarks, real estate law, and mergers and acquisitions. You’ll find outstanding experience, a deeply sophisticated practice, and industry-leading knowledge with our attorneys: we’re here to meet any challenge you might face.

You’ll also find a group of people who care here: about you, your future, and your goals. Give us a call any time. We’re always here to talk – but first, we’re here to listen.

Reach Out

Merger and acquisition services are just one facet of our expertise at Odom Law Group, APLC. If you’re ready to learn more about our team, let’s chat!

Contact Odom Law Group, APLC, at 661.367.1699 or email us at info@odomlawgroup.com. We can’t wait to meet you.