Best Private Equity Lawyers in Finland

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Asianajotoimisto Artimo & Co
Jyväskylä, Finland

Founded in 2005
4 people in their team
English
Artimo & Co is a Jyvaeskylae based full service law firm that serves private individuals, public entities and companies. The firm delivers professional service grounded in experience and ongoing training, following sound professional practice. All assignments are handled with strict...
Justeria Law Firm
Espoo, Finland

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Finnish
English
Swedish
JusteriaJusteria Oy is a legal affairs office specializing in business jurisprudence for small and medium-sized companies. We assist companies and their owners, e.g. in matters of contract law, questions related to company and tax law, and business arrangements. We also handle lawsuits and...

English
Asianajotoimisto Tatu Pylvänäinen Oy provides general legal services to private individuals and businesses, handling assignments in most areas of law. The practice focuses on litigation, criminal matters, corporate affairs, employment matters, civil disputes across different areas, as well as...

Founded in 2024
1 person in their team
English
Asianajotoimisto Aki Aapio Oy is a Finland-based law firm offering solution-oriented advocacy across Finland, with offices in Vaasa, Seinäjoki and Helsinki. The firm represents both corporate and private clients and handles matters that range from drafting complex commercial agreements to...

Founded in 2011
73 people in their team
English
Asianajotoimisto DLA Piper Finland Oy operates as the Finnish arm of the global DLA Piper network, providing full service corporate and commercial legal advice to companies and public sector clients. The team handles corporate governance, cross-border transactions, commercial contracts and...
Markelin & Somppi
Helsinki, Finland

5 people in their team
English
Markelin & Somppi Oy is a Finnish law firm delivering focused counsel to individuals and businesses across Helsinki and Western Finland. The practice encompasses family law, real estate matters, tax planning and dispute resolution, supported by a team that combines in depth legal knowledge with...
Attorneys Mika Ala-Uotila Oy
Tampere, Finland

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Finnish
Swedish
English
Advocacy respecting traditionsFrom our law firm, you can get multidisciplinary and solid know-how and friendly service, especially in housing trade, real estate and construction contract disputes, environmental matters as well as company, bankruptcy and restructuring matters, litigation and...

5 people in their team
English
Asianajotoimisto Jari Hytti Ky is a Tampere based boutique law firm that serves corporate clients and individuals with practical, results oriented legal counsel. The practice areas include corporate and commercial matters, real estate, disputes and cross border advisory, with services available in...
Castrén & Snellman
Helsinki, Finland

Founded in 1888
500 people in their team
Finnish
English
OverviewOur mission is to help our clients build sustainable success stories. We are a reliable partner in transactions, dispute resolution and a wide range of other specialised facets of business law.Decades of supporting our clients’ success have enabled us to grow into a firm of over 280...
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About Private Equity Law in Finland

Private Equity (PE) in Finland refers to investments in private companies that are not listed on public stock exchanges. The practice includes various investment strategies, such as venture capital for startups, growth capital, and buyouts of established businesses. Finland has a developed Private Equity market, with both domestic and international funds actively investing in Finnish companies. The sector is regulated to ensure transparency, protection of investors, and fair competition. Private Equity law encompasses various legal disciplines, including corporate law, contract law, securities regulation, and tax.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Private Equity transactions in Finland are often complex and involve significant legal and financial risks. Common situations where legal advice is necessary include:

  • Structuring and negotiating investment deals
  • Conducting legal due diligence on target companies
  • Drafting and reviewing investment agreements
  • Ensuring compliance with Finnish and EU regulations
  • Advising on tax implications and optimizations
  • Handling disputes among investors, founders, or management
  • Assisting in exits, such as sales or initial public offerings (IPOs)
  • Safeguarding intellectual property and employment contracts

A lawyer experienced in Private Equity will help protect your interests, reduce legal risks, and streamline the transaction process.

Local Laws Overview

Finnish Private Equity transactions are governed primarily by national corporate law, as well as EU regulations on financial markets and competition. The key aspects of local laws relevant to Private Equity in Finland include:

  • Limited Liability Companies Act: Outlines company formation, governance, and shareholder rights
  • Securities Markets Act: Sets rules for disclosure, insider trading, and offering securities to the public
  • Competition Act: Regulates anti-competitive practices and merger control
  • Financial Supervisory Authority (FIN-FSA): Oversees fund managers, investors, and compliance with financial legislation
  • Taxation: Investment structures must comply with Finnish tax rules, including requirements for capital gains, withholding tax, and cross-border investments
  • Employment Law: Relevant for dealing with management equity plans or restructuring
  • Contract Law: Essential for drafting agreements and navigating disputes

Understanding these laws is crucial to ensure legal compliance and successful investment outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Private Equity?

Private Equity involves investing in private companies, helping them grow or restructure, and eventually selling those investments for profit. It often entails hands-on involvement in management and operations.

Who regulates Private Equity in Finland?

Private Equity activity is supervised by the Finnish Financial Supervisory Authority (FIN-FSA) and subject to Finnish corporate and securities laws, as well as applicable EU directives.

Are there restrictions on foreign investors in Finnish Private Equity?

Finland generally welcomes foreign investment, but sector-specific restrictions may apply (e.g., in defense or critical infrastructure). All investors must comply with Finnish and EU regulations.

What is due diligence in a Private Equity transaction?

Due diligence refers to the comprehensive legal, financial, and operational review of a target company before investing. It helps identify risks and liabilities.

What legal structures are typically used for Private Equity funds in Finland?

Common structures include limited liability companies (Oy) and limited partnerships (Ky), tailored to suit tax optimization and investor requirements.

How are Private Equity deals structured in Finland?

Deals often involve equity investment, shareholder agreements, management incentives, and sometimes debt financing. The agreements specify rights, obligations, and conditions for all parties.

What are common exit strategies for Private Equity investments in Finland?

Exits typically include trade sales (selling to another company), secondary transactions (selling to another investor or fund), and public offerings (IPOs).

Which taxes are relevant to Private Equity investments?

Relevant taxes include capital gains tax, corporate tax, withholding tax on dividends, and transfer taxes. Taxation depends on the investment structure and residency of investors.

How are management incentive schemes handled?

Management incentive plans, such as stock options or performance shares, are common. They must comply with Finnish labor and tax regulations and be carefully documented.

What should I do if a dispute arises in a Private Equity transaction?

It is essential to consult a qualified lawyer to review agreements and pursue dispute resolution mechanisms, which may include negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or court proceedings in Finland.

Additional Resources

The following organizations and resources may help you understand Private Equity in Finland and find further legal assistance:

  • Finnish Financial Supervisory Authority (FIN-FSA) - Regulates financial markets and fund managers
  • Finnish Venture Capital Association (FVCA) - Industry body representing Finnish Private Equity and venture capital firms
  • Business Finland - Governmental organization supporting innovation and investment in Finland
  • Enterprise Finland - Provides business-related advice and resources
  • Ministry of Justice, Finland - Offers information on legislative frameworks relevant to business and investments

Next Steps

If you are considering a Private Equity investment or are involved in a related transaction in Finland, consider the following steps:

  • Research your investment, potential partners, and the regulatory landscape
  • Engage a lawyer early to provide guidance and review documentation
  • Conduct a thorough due diligence process before committing funds
  • Work with experienced advisors to structure and negotiate agreements
  • Ensure ongoing compliance with relevant laws and regulations
  • If disputes arise, consult legal counsel for resolution strategies tailored to Finnish law

Taking these proactive measures with professional legal support will help protect your interests and contribute to a successful Private Equity transaction in Finland.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Finland 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 Private Equity, 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.

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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.