Planning to take your company public? Our Kirkland-based attorneys specialize in IPOs, direct listings, SPAC mergers, and alternative paths to public markets for companies across Technology, Healthcare, Professional Services.
Our managing partner provides selective ipo & going public law counsel to clients in Kirkland and nationwide, including:
We engage selectively with capitalized founders and investors in Kirkland and nationwide:
Seattle's M&A market is heavily influenced by the presence of Amazon, Microsoft, and Boeing, which create a massive ecosystem of technology vendors, cloud services companies, and aerospace suppliers ripe for acquisition. The region's strength in cloud computing, AI, and SaaS has made it the second-largest tech M&A market after the Bay Area. Biotech activity is growing rapidly, anchored by the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center and Allen Institute.
Seattle deal valuations for tech companies approach Bay Area levels but with slightly less competition. The concentration of technical talent means acquired companies can scale engineering teams faster than in most markets.
Washington state has no personal income tax, making it attractive for founders considering exits and for acquirers looking to relocate talent. The region's tech ecosystem ensures a steady pipeline of growth-stage companies seeking acquisition.
Washington's non-compete statute (RCW 49.62) voids non-competes for employees earning under approximately $120,000 annually (adjusted for inflation) and limits duration to 18 months, which affects workforce retention strategies post-acquisition.
"Going public changes everything about how you operate. The reporting obligations, the insider trading rules, the proxy requirements. Companies that aren't prepared for life as a public company shouldn't be rushing to get there."
Restricted by salary threshold ($116,593+ employees). 18-month presumptive maximum. Garden leave required for terminated employees.
Entity mergers and conversions must be filed with the Washington Secretary of State. Annual reports are required. The Department of Revenue handles B&O tax registration and capital gains tax compliance.
Submit your transaction details for a preliminary assessment by our managing partner.
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 Kirkland clients
Submit your transaction details for a preliminary assessment by our managing partner
Submit Transaction DetailsIn-depth guides to help you prepare for your transaction
State-by-state securities registration requirements and exemptions.
Read guideHow private companies can issue equity compensation under Rule 701.
Read guideFiling requirements for Regulation D offerings at the state level.
Read guideHow reverse mergers work and when they make sense as a path to going public.
Read guideRequirements for selling restricted and control securities.
Read guideOur managing partner provides selective ipo & going public law counsel for transactions nationwide. Submit your transaction details for a preliminary assessment.
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
Selective M&A practice - Nationwide reach - Managing partner on every deal