Planning to take your company public? Our Palo Alto-based attorneys specialize in IPOs, direct listings, SPAC mergers, and alternative paths to public markets for companies across Technology, Venture Capital, SaaS.
Our managing partner provides selective ipo & going public law counsel to clients in Palo Alto and nationwide, including:
We engage selectively with capitalized founders and investors in Palo Alto and nationwide:
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.
"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."
Banned 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.
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 Palo Alto 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