Best Merger & Acquisition Lawyers in Maspalomas

Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.

Free. Takes 2 min.


Founded in 2017
5 people in their team
English
Mérita Legal, led by Dunia Cubas Diaz, is a Canary Islands based boutique law firm with more than twenty years of professional experience across civil law, family law, criminal law and international law, and a strong specialization in Real Estate and common property matters. The firm has built a...
AS SEEN ON

1. About Merger & Acquisition Law in Maspalomas, Spain

Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) in Maspalomas, Spain, follow national corporate and competition law while accounting for local context in the Canary Islands. Deals can take the form of a share sale or an asset sale, with the buyer acquiring either the target company as a whole or specific business assets. The process typically includes due diligence, negotiation of a purchase agreement, and regulatory and licensing clearances. In Maspalomas, the hospitality sector and real estate transactions commonly shape the structure and risk allocation of these deals.

Key steps usually include signing a non-disclosure agreement, drafting a letter of intent, and negotiating a sale and purchase agreement with representations, warranties, and indemnities. Because local licenses, lease rights, and employee obligations can significantly affect value, a careful review of permits, contracts, and workforce issues is essential. Regulatory oversight by Spain's competition authority may apply in larger or market-shifting transactions.

For cross-border or EU-related deals, the EU Merger Regulation can apply, requiring notification to the European Commission if thresholds are met. National enforcement by Spain’s competition authority, the CNMC, also governs concentrations that affect competition within Spain. These frameworks influence closing timelines and potential remedies or divestitures that may be required.

Sources: European Commission competition policy - merger control information: https://ec.europa.eu/competition-policy_en
CNMC information on merger control and concentrations: https://www.cnmc.gob.es

2. Why You May Need a Lawyer

Scenario: You are acquiring a Maspalomas hotel and due diligence uncovers environmental liabilities

A lawyer helps review environmental permits, waste management compliance, and potential remediation costs. They can negotiate representations and warranties, indemnities, and escrow funds to cover environmental remediation after closing.

Scenario: The target employs staff in Maspalomas and a transfer of employees is planned

An attorney provides guidance on employee transfers under Spanish labor law, informs on informational and consultative requirements, and structures protections for workers and the seller’s obligations during a change of control.

Scenario: The deal will require CNMC concentration clearance or EU merger notification

Your legal counsel assesses thresholds, prepares the notification, and coordinates with the regulator to address possible remedies or conditions before closing.

Scenario: The target holds long-term real estate leases or licenses needed by the operation

Scenario: The transaction includes valuable intangible assets, such as brands or IP

Legal counsel ensures proper assignment of IP rights, clarity of licensing terms, and protection against pre-existing encumbrances that could affect post-merger value.

Scenario: Tax and regulatory implications differ in the Canary Islands compared with mainland Spain

An attorney coordinates with tax advisors to optimize structures and timelines for ITP, AJD, and IGIC considerations where relevant to a Maspalomas deal.

3. Local Laws Overview

Ley de Sociedades de Capital (Real Decreto Legislativo 1/2010, de 2 de julio)

The consolidated text of the Ley de Sociedades de Capital governs corporate structure, governance, mergers, and acquisition mechanics in Spain. It covers share transfers, merger procedures, and the rights of minority shareholders during reorganizations.

Ley de Defensa de la Competencia (Ley 15/2007, de 3 de julio)

This law establishes prohibitions on anti-competitive agreements and abuse of dominance, and it sets the framework for concentration control. The CNMC enforces rules on mergers and market concentration in Spain.

Tax considerations in the Canary Islands related to M&A (general framework)

Transactions in the Canary Islands interact with the regional tax regime, including indirect tax rules that can differ from mainland Spain. Practitioners must assess tax treatment for asset versus share deals, and any IGIC implications where applicable.

These laws shape how M&A deals are structured, negotiated, and closed in Maspalomas, and they guide expectations for regulatory approvals, minority protections, and post-closing compliance.

Sources: European Commission competition policy - merger control information: https://ec.europa.eu/competition-policy_en
CNMC information on merger control and concentrations: https://www.cnmc.gob.es
Gobierno de Canarias - official information on regional taxation and business regulation: https://www.gobiernodecanarias.org

4. Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a stock deal and an asset deal?

A stock deal transfers ownership of shares, while an asset deal transfers specific assets and liabilities. Tax and liability consequences differ significantly between the two structures.

How do I start an M&A negotiation in Maspalomas?

Begin with a signed non-disclosure agreement, prepare a letter of intent outlining key terms, and assemble a local M&A team including a lawyer experienced in Spanish corporate law.

What is due diligence in a Spanish M&A context?

Due diligence reviews financial records, contracts, licenses, liabilities, employee matters, and regulatory issues to verify target value and risk.

What is the typical timeline for an M&A deal in Maspalomas?

Deal timelines vary by complexity but may range from 8 to 20 weeks for a straightforward asset or share sale, with longer periods for regulatory approvals.

Do I need a lawyer for an M&A deal?

Yes. A lawyer helps structure the deal, draft and negotiate SPA or asset purchase agreements, and manage regulatory and tax issues specific to the Canary Islands.

How much does a Maspalomas M&A lawyer typically charge?

Legal fees depend on deal size and complexity but commonly include a retainer, hourly rates, and success-based components for closing outcomes.

Do I need to notify CNMC for every M&A in Spain?

No. Notification to CNMC is required only when a concentration meets applicable thresholds and could affect competition in Spain or across the EU.

What is the difference between a merger and an acquisition in practice?

A merger combines two entities into one, while an acquisition purchases control of another company. Both require careful governance and regulatory considerations.

Can I close a deal in Maspalomas without local licenses?

Usually not if the business requires licenses to operate. A lawyer will verify permits and help structure post-closing assignments or transfers as needed.

Is cross-border M&A subject to EU merger rules?

Yes, cross-border deals may be subject to EU merger control if EU thresholds are met. National law interfaces with EU requirements.

How long does it take for CNMC to review a concentration?

Review times vary; preliminary screening can take weeks, with formal investigations potentially extending to several months or more depending on complexity.

5. Additional Resources

  • Comisión Nacional de los Mercados y la Competencia (CNMC) - national authority for competition and merger control in Spain. Function: monitor concentrations and approve or require remedies. https://www.cnmc.gob.es
  • European Commission - Competition Policy - EU framework for merger control and cross-border deals. Function: oversee transnational concentrations and harmonize rules. https://ec.europa.eu/competition-policy_en
  • Gobierno de Canarias - official information on regional business regulation and taxation in the Canary Islands. Function: provides guidance relevant to M&A activities in the archipelago. https://www.gobiernodecanarias.org

6. Next Steps

  1. Define your M&A objective and choose the deal type (share sale vs asset sale) based on risk and tax considerations. Budget a 5-10% cushion for due diligence and closing costs.
  2. Identify Maspalomas-based or Canary Islands-competent counsel with corporate, tax, and regulatory expertise. Request a structured fee proposal and a due diligence plan.
  3. Execute a non-disclosure agreement and obtain a preliminary term sheet outlining price, reps, warranties, and conditions precedents.
  4. Commence due diligence with a comprehensive data room covering financials, contracts, employment, licenses, and real estate. Schedule interim reviews.
  5. Draft and negotiate the sale and purchase agreement, including indemnities, escrow, and post-closing integration terms. Seek regulatory clearance early if needed.
  6. Secure all local licenses, permits, and approvals required to operate post-closing. Confirm transfer of employees and compliance with labor law obligations.
  7. Close the transaction and implement a post-merger integration plan with clear governance and reporting structures.
Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Maspalomas 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 Maspalomas, Spain - 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.