Due diligence and process management

Often both the seller and the purchaser perform due diligence investigations of the business in question for the purpose of uncovering issues that particularly should be taken into account in the contemplated transfer and the risks relating to the transfer.

A valuable tool

The due diligence process caters to amplify the knowledge of the business and the report material represents a valuable tool in optimizing the business' legal affairs and in the negotiation of a possible transfer agreement. The general object of a due diligence exercise is to avoid any unpleasant surprises later on in the process – and particularly after the completion of the transaction – which could result in a dispute between the seller and the purchaser.

Our experience

We have unrivalled expertise and experience in legal due diligence examinations; whether we are providing assistance to a seller in establishing and structuring the data room and planning the due diligence process or assisting a purchaser with examining the business in question.

Vendor due diligence

A vendor due diligence can be useful in certain transactions.

When we provide assistance to a seller, our services consist of:

• selecting and organising the relevant documentation for the business
• instructing and being in constant dialogue with the business' relevant employees about the documentation
• handling, relaying and assisting with the responses to the purchaser's questions concerning the documentation

Purchaser due diligence

When we provide assistance to a purchaser, our services consist of:

• checking public registers, etc.
• reviewing the documentation concerning the business that the seller has submitted at its own initiative or upon request
• arranging/participating in Q&A sessions with the management board and potential other key employees
• reporting to the client
• checking whether the due diligence results are duly reflected in the transfer agreement and any other supplementary agreements, for instance a licence agreement
• minimising the business' legal risk exposure after the completion of the transfer

To ensure cost effectiveness and the right qualifications at any time, a due diligence exercise will usually involve lawyers from one or several of Plesner's specialist groups.

We always make sure that the work is handled by lawyers with the right seniority and expertise.

Reporting form

The level of reporting required by the client varies. A more detailed reporting level typically entails a longer period of investigation. As a consequence, we always provide the best possible advice in accordance with the level of reporting that is most advantageous and useful for the client in the situation in question – also from a commercial point of view.