Best Merger & Acquisition Lawyers in Florida

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Morgan & Morgan
Panama City, United States

Founded in 1923
1,000 people in their team
Spanish
English
Our law firmWith 100 years of successful trajectory, Morgan & Morgan is a full-service Panamanian law firm, regularly assisting local and multinational corporations from different industries, as well as recognized financial institutions, government agencies, and individual clients.We support...
Lippes Mathias LLP
Jacksonville, United States

Founded in 1965
177 people in their team
English
Lippes Mathias LLP is a full-service law firm with more than 135 attorneys serving clients regionally, nationally, and internationally. With offices in Buffalo, N.Y.; Albany, N.Y.; Burlington, Ontario; Chicago, Ill.; New York City; Jacksonville, Fla; and Washington, D.C., the firm represents a wide...
Quijano & Associates
Panama City, United States

Founded in 1959
200 people in their team
Spanish
English
Our experts also provide the registration and representation of vessels under the Panamanian flag, and a wide range of advisory services for the establishment and maintenance of legal entities formed in a plurality of jurisdictions, including the Republic of Panama, the British Virgin Islands,...
Icaza, Gonzalez - Ruiz & Aleman (IGRA)
Panama City, United States

Founded in 1920
500 people in their team
Spanish
English
Icaza, González-Ruiz & Alemán merges tradition and vision to provide practical legal solutions, delivering outstanding results to corporate and private clients worldwide.Since its inception in 1920, its experts have been involved in some of the most pivotal milestones in Panama's legal...
Arnold & Porter Kaye Scholer LLP
Tallahassee, United States

Founded in 1946
2,057 people in their team
English
At Arnold & Porter, we are client-driven and industry-focused. Our lawyers practice in more than 40 practice areas across the litigation, regulatory and transactional spectrum to help clients with complex needs stay ahead of the global market, anticipate opportunities and address issues that...
NDM LAW FIRM & ASSOCIATES
Panama City, United States

Founded in 2017
50 people in their team
Spanish
English
We are a team of lawyers that operates in Panama, with partners in Latin America, North America, Europe and Asia who will attend to your case in detail, focused on your needs.17 years of experience in several areas of law accompany our lawyers in challenging cases with successful results for our...
Adams and Reese LLP
Jacksonville, United States

Founded in 1951
610 people in their team
English
Study our experience and credentials to understand why we belong on your short list. Get to know us as people, and you’ll recognize our dedication to client service. At Adams and Reese, we take things personally. Our people are connected - to each other, to our clients, our families, and our...
Kutak Rock LLP.
Tallahassee, United States

Founded in 1965
500 people in their team
English
We help communities thriveDevelopment and Improvement Districts is a signature practice of Kutak Rock. More than 50 of our attorneys represent community development and other special districts of all sizes and types, from small, in-fill residential projects to large scale multi-use commercial and...
Greenberg Traurig, LLP.
Fort Lauderdale, United States

Founded in 1967
2,300 people in their team
English
Five decades ago, while at lunch in a South Florida deli, attorneys Larry J. Hoffman, Mel Greenberg, and Robert Traurig saw an opportunity to establish a new breed of law firm for South Florida; a firm that mirrored a New York style firm. In 1967, they founded the law firm Greenberg Traurig...
Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP
Miami, United States

Founded in 1931
1,100 people in their team
English
Founded in 1931, Weil has provided legal services to the largest public companies, private equity firms and financial institutions for the past 90 years. Widely recognized by those covering the legal profession, Weil’s lawyers regularly advise clients globally on their most complex Litigation,...
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About Merger & Acquisition Law in Florida, United States

Merger and Acquisition (M&A) law in Florida covers the legal process of combining two or more businesses or the purchase of one business by another. M&A transactions can involve complex legal, financial, and operational considerations. Throughout Florida, these transactions are subject to both federal laws and distinctive state statutes. Whether dealing with small private company deals or large public mergers, parties must address issues like due diligence, regulatory approvals, agreement structuring, and post-transaction integration.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

M&A transactions can be complicated and may expose parties to legal risks if not handled properly. You may need a lawyer in situations such as:

  • Buying or selling a business in Florida
  • Structuring a merger, consolidation, or acquisition
  • Conducting due diligence regarding assets, debts, and compliance
  • Drafting or reviewing purchase agreements and disclosure schedules
  • Managing employee, contract, and intellectual property issues arising from the transaction
  • Ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal regulations
  • Navigating tax implications and strategies
  • Addressing shareholder rights and disputes
  • Handling confidential or sensitive company information

Having an attorney by your side helps to identify and mitigate potential risks, protect your interests, and facilitate a smoother transaction process.

Local Laws Overview

M&A in Florida is governed not only by federal regulations like the Securities Exchange Act and the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act but also by state-specific laws and rules. Some important aspects include:

  • Florida Business Corporation Act: Governs corporate merger and acquisition procedures, including approvals, filings, and dissenting shareholder rights.
  • Antitrust Considerations: Florida’s antitrust laws parallel federal law to prevent unfair concentration of market power.
  • Regulatory Approvals: Certain industries like healthcare, banking, or insurance require local regulatory clearance before mergers or acquisitions can proceed.
  • Due Diligence Requirements: Florida law emphasizes proper due diligence relating to debts, litigation, and compliance with state-specific employment, real estate, and environmental regulations.
  • Non-Compete and Non-Disclosure Agreements: Enforceability in Florida is subject to specific state statutes.
  • Sales Tax Implications: Transfer of certain assets may trigger Florida sales tax.
  • Filing Requirements: Mergers and acquisitions may require formal filings with the Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations.

Understanding these local rules is critical for M&A transactions in Florida to avoid delays, fines, or failed deals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a merger and an acquisition?

A merger typically combines two companies into one new entity, while an acquisition involves one company purchasing another, which may continue operating as a separate entity or become fully integrated.

Do mergers or acquisitions in Florida require regulatory approval?

Some transactions, especially in regulated industries like healthcare or banking, require approval from state and federal regulators. Antitrust concerns may also require notification or clearance.

What is due diligence and why is it important?

Due diligence is a thorough investigation into the financial, legal, and operational status of the target business. In Florida, proper due diligence helps buyers avoid undisclosed liabilities and ensures compliance with state laws.

How are shareholders protected in Florida mergers?

Florida law gives shareholders certain rights, such as the right to vote on major transactions or seek appraisal of their shares if they disagree with the terms of a merger.

What common documents are needed for an M&A deal?

Key documents include letters of intent, confidentiality agreements, purchase or merger agreements, disclosure schedules, shareholder or board resolutions, and filing forms for state agencies.

Are non-compete clauses enforceable in Florida?

Yes, non-compete agreements are generally enforceable under Florida law if they are reasonable in time, geography, and scope, and protect legitimate business interests.

Can you buy just the assets of a business instead of the entire company?

Yes, asset purchases allow buyers to acquire specific assets and avoid certain liabilities. This is a common structure in Florida for small and medium-sized businesses.

How are taxes handled in an M&A transaction in Florida?

Tax consequences can vary based on the deal structure. Asset sales may be subject to sales tax, and both buyers and sellers should consult with legal and tax professionals to plan accordingly.

Must the public be informed of all mergers or acquisitions?

Public companies are subject to Securities and Exchange Commission disclosure rules. Private transactions usually do not require public disclosure, except as required by state filings or industry regulations.

How long does a typical M&A transaction take in Florida?

Timeframes can vary widely depending on the complexity of the deal. Simple asset purchases may close in a few weeks, while larger or regulated transactions can take several months or longer.

Additional Resources

Those seeking further information or legal assistance with M&A in Florida can consult the following resources:

  • Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations
  • Florida Bar - Business Law Section
  • U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)
  • U.S. Department of Justice Antitrust Division
  • Small Business Development Center at the University of South Florida
  • Local chambers of commerce and business associations

These organizations offer guidance on regulatory compliance, business registration, corporate governance, and more.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with an M&A transaction in Florida, consider these steps:

  • Identify and organize your business’s financial and legal documents
  • Conduct a preliminary assessment of your goals for the transaction
  • Contact a Florida-licensed attorney experienced in mergers and acquisitions
  • Discuss potential structures, risks, and compliance requirements
  • Engage professionals, such as accountants or tax advisors, if needed
  • Stay informed throughout the process and clarify all terms before finalizing any agreements

Dealing with M&A transactions can be intricate. Legal representation ensures your rights and interests are protected at every stage. Start by reaching out to a qualified M&A lawyer for an initial consultation.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Florida through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Merger & Acquisition, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Florida, United States - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.