Buying or Selling a Business in the UK | Legal Support for SMEs and Investors
Buying or Selling a Business? Get the Deal in Writing — Professionally
Buying or selling a business is a significant commercial transaction. While the process may appear straightforward, the structure of the deal and the terms agreed can have lasting financial and legal implications.
This service provides clear and practical legal support to ensure that your transaction is structured appropriately, risks are identified early, and agreements reflect your commercial objectives.
Who This Service Is For
This service is suitable if:
- You require legal input on a commercial transaction
- You are acquiring an existing business
- You are selling your business or part of it
- You are purchasing shares in a company
- You are buying or selling business assets
What This Service Covers
Transaction Structuring
Advice on whether the transaction should be structured as:
- Share sale
- Asset sale
And how this impacts:
- Risk and liability
- Control and ownership
- Commercial flexibility
Drafting and Reviewing Agreements
Support with key transaction documents, including:
- Sale and purchase agreements
- Heads of terms
- Confidentiality agreements
Risk Identification
Assessment of legal and commercial risks, including:
- Liability exposure
- Payment structures and protections
- Post-completion obligations
Commercial Input
Practical guidance on key terms to ensure that:
- Agreements reflect your commercial position
- Risk is allocated appropriately
Why Legal Support Matters
Transactions often encounter difficulties not because of the opportunity itself, but because:
- The structure was not properly considered
- Agreements were unclear or incomplete
- Risks were not identified at an early stage
Addressing these issues at the outset reduces the likelihood of disputes and protects your position.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy shares or assets
This depends on your objectives and risk appetite. Share purchases may include existing liabilities, whereas asset purchases can provide greater control over what is acquired.
Do I need legal advice for a smaller transaction
Even relatively small transactions can involve legal and financial risk. Early advice helps ensure clarity and avoids issues later.
Can you work with my accountant or advisor
Yes. Coordination with other advisors is often part of the process.
Fees
| Business Value | Fee (Inclusive of VAT) |
|---|---|
| Under £50,000 | from £2,000 |
| £50,000-£250,000 | £4,000 – £7,500 |
| £250,000-£500,000 | £7,500 – £12,000 |
| £500,000-£1 million | £12,000 – £20,000 |
| Over £1 million | Typically 1% – 1.5% or scoped based on requirements |