M&A and Business Transaction Support
Expert legal guidance for buying, selling, or restructuring a business in Ontario and across Canada.
Why Legal Guidance Matters in Business Transactions
Whether you are acquiring a competitor, selling the business you built, or restructuring your corporate group, these transactions carry significant legal, financial, and operational risk. The wrong structure can trigger unnecessary tax liabilities. Missing a due diligence issue can expose you to undisclosed liabilities.
At Onley Law, we guide business owners through the entire transaction lifecycle with over a decade of M&A experience for Canadian small and mid-market businesses.
Our M&A and Transaction Services
Business Acquisitions: We represent buyers in share and asset purchases, including deal structuring, due diligence, purchase agreement drafting, and closing management.
Business Sales: We help owners prepare for and execute a sale, from data room organization through LOI review, warranty negotiation, and closing deliverables.
Share Purchase Agreements: Complex SPAs covering share transfer mechanics, escrow, purchase price adjustments, and comprehensive rep and warranty packages.
Asset Purchase Agreements: APAs defining included and excluded assets and liabilities, bulk sales compliance, and contract assignments.
Corporate Reorganizations: Tax-driven reorganizations, holding structures, amalgamations, and continuances, coordinated with your accountant.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a business acquisition take?
Most small to mid-market transactions take 60 to 120 days from signed LOI to closing, depending on due diligence complexity and financing requirements.
What is the difference between a share purchase and an asset purchase?
In a share purchase, the buyer acquires the shares of the corporation, including all its assets and liabilities. In an asset purchase, the buyer selects specific assets while leaving certain liabilities behind. Each has different tax and legal implications.
Do I need a lawyer to sell my business?
Yes. A business sale involves complex legal documentation, tax planning, and risk allocation through representations, warranties, and indemnities. Professional legal guidance protects your interests and ensures a clean closing.
How much does legal support for an M&A transaction cost?
Legal fees depend on deal complexity, but typically range from $10,000 to $50,000 for small and mid-market transactions. At Onley Law, we provide a clear fee estimate before engagement.
Can you help with cross-border transactions?
Yes. We handle the Canadian legal aspects of cross-border deals and coordinate with foreign counsel as needed for international regulatory requirements.
Ready to Discuss Your Transaction?
Book a free 15-minute consultation. Call (905) 215-2156 or book online.