What you do not know about a target company can cost you everything. Our Palo Alto due diligence attorneys conduct rigorous legal due diligence for business acquisitions across Technology, Venture Capital, SaaS, identifying hidden risks and liabilities so you can make informed decisions and negotiate from a position of strength.
Alex Lubyansky handles acquisition due diligence law work for buyers and sellers in Palo Alto and across the country. Here is what that looks like:
We work best with people who know what they want and are ready to move:
The Bay Area is ground zero for technology M&A, with the highest concentration of venture-backed startups and tech acquirers in the world. Deal activity centers on SaaS companies, fintech platforms, biotech firms, and AI/ML startups. Strategic acquisitions by large tech companies and PE-backed roll-ups of vertical SaaS businesses drive consistent deal flow in the $5M-$50M range.
San Francisco deal valuations run 20-40% higher than national averages due to competition from strategic acquirers and growth equity firms. Sellers benefit from multiple bidders, but buyers need sophisticated deal structures to compete without overpaying.
The Bay Area produces more venture-backed companies than any other market, creating a steady pipeline of acquisition targets as startups seek exits. Access to world-class engineering talent makes acquired companies easier to scale post-close.
California's non-compete prohibition, combined with strict employee classification rules (AB 5) and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), require careful due diligence on employment practices and data handling during any acquisition.
A structured, methodical approach to acquisition due diligence law
We create a customized due diligence checklist and request list based on the target company's industry, size, and deal structure, then coordinate document collection with the seller.
Our team reviews every material contract, corporate record, litigation file, and regulatory filing in the data room, flagging risks that could affect valuation or deal terms.
We identify and categorize risks by severity, including potential liabilities, contract issues, compliance gaps, and operational exposures that require attention before closing.
Managing Partner Alex Lubyansky delivers a clear, actionable findings report with risk-ranked issues and specific recommendations for how to address each one in the purchase agreement.
We translate diligence findings into negotiation leverage, drafting specific representations, warranties, indemnities, and closing conditions that protect you from identified risks.
"If you don't qualify aggressively on the front end, what a terrible waste of time. The other party might not have actual funding, they might not have actual backing, they might not have actual intent. They're just using the deal as a way to gain free market information."
Alex Lubyansky | Managing Partner
Share the basics and Alex will let you know if there is a fit.
Your transaction details are under review. If there is alignment, we will be in touch.
Meanwhile, feel free to call us directly at (248) 266-2790
Common questions from Palo Alto clients
Submit your transaction details for a preliminary assessment by our managing partner
Submit Transaction DetailsBanned entirely. Limited exception for sale of a business.
Mergers and asset acquisitions require filings with the California Secretary of State. The California Franchise Tax Board requires tax clearance certificates for dissolving entities. Bulk sales transactions require Notice to Creditors filings. Foreign entities must qualify with the Secretary of State before doing business in California.
We don't take every matter. Here is what happens when you reach out.
Alex reviews your transaction details personally. No intake coordinators, no junior associates screening your submission.
We evaluate whether your deal aligns with our practice. Not every matter is a fit, and we will tell you directly if it is not.
If there is alignment, Alex schedules a direct call to discuss your transaction, timeline, and objectives.
Before any work begins, you receive a written engagement letter with defined scope, timeline, and fee structure. No surprises.
Use these before you call any firm, including ours.
At many firms, a partner sells the work and a junior associate does it. Ask for the name of the attorney who will draft and negotiate your documents.
Volume indicates current, active deal experience, not just credentials from years ago.
A $500K SBA acquisition and a $50M PE deal require different skill sets. Make sure the attorney has handled transactions similar to yours.
M&A transactions require a team. Your attorney should work with your other advisors, not in a silo.
Reps, warranties, and indemnification claims surface months after closing. Ask whether the firm handles post-closing litigation or refers it out.
Hourly, flat fee, or hybrid. Ask what factors increase legal costs so there are no surprises.
In-depth guides to help you prepare for your transaction
Key considerations for sellers navigating the M&A process with legal representation.
Read guideA structured approach to legal, financial, and operational due diligence.
Read guideUnderstanding the binding and non-binding elements of each document.
Read guideCommon deal-killers and how experienced counsel helps prevent them.
Read guideWhat buyers should look for in a Franchise Disclosure Document.
Read guideAlex Lubyansky handles every engagement personally. Tell us about your transaction and we will let you know if there is a fit.
Submit transaction details for review. We engage selectively with capitalized buyers and sellers.
Your transaction details are under review. If there is alignment, we will be in touch.
Meanwhile, feel free to call us directly at (248) 266-2790
One attorney on every deal. Nationwide. 15+ years of M&A experience.