Thinking about buying or merging with a business in the Dallas–Fort Worth area?
Whether you’re acquiring a small family-run shop in Plano, buying a franchise in Frisco, or executing a multi-million-dollar merger in Downtown Dallas, the legal process behind business acquisitions is complex—and mistakes can be costly.
At Wallace Law, PLLC, we’ve helped buyers, sellers, and business owners across DFW navigate mergers and acquisitions (M&A) with confidence. If you’re planning to buy a business in Texas, this legal checklist will keep you protected and positioned for success.
✅ 1. Letter of Intent (LOI)
Before negotiations begin, most deals start with a Letter of Intent that outlines:
- Purchase price or valuation method
- Structure of the transaction (asset vs. stock purchase)
- Key contingencies and timelines
- Non-binding terms, with some binding clauses (e.g., exclusivity, confidentiality)
Your attorney can draft or review the LOI to make sure it supports your goals—and protects your leverage.
✅ 2. Due Diligence Review
Before you buy a business in Dallas, it’s critical to know exactly what you’re buying. This phase includes:
- Reviewing contracts, leases, and loan agreements
- Examining corporate structure, bylaws, and shareholder information
- Verifying licenses, intellectual property, and vendor relationships
- Analyzing tax filings, employment issues, and potential liabilities
Our firm helps conduct legal due diligence in parallel with your financial and operational review—so there are no surprises post-closing.
✅ 3. Asset vs. Stock Purchase: Know the Difference
In Texas, most small-to-mid-size business acquisitions are structured as asset purchases to avoid assuming hidden liabilities. But each structure has pros and cons:
| Asset Purchase | Stock Purchase |
| Buyer picks specific assets and liabilities | Buyer assumes full ownership of the legal entity |
| Often avoids unknown debts or lawsuits | Keeps contracts, licenses, and permits intact |
| Requires retitling of assets | Less disruption to business operations |
We’ll help you choose the best deal structure based on your legal, tax, and industry-specific considerations.
✅ 4. Contract Negotiation and Drafting
The Purchase Agreement is the heart of your deal. It should include:
- Representations and warranties
- Indemnification clauses
- Escrow or holdback provisions
- Non-compete and non-solicitation terms
- Post-closing obligations
At Wallace Law, we draft and negotiate bulletproof contracts designed to prevent disputes and protect your investment long after closing.
✅ 5. Regulatory and Licensing Compliance
Buying a business in Texas often requires:
- Registering with the Texas Secretary of State
- Transferring or renewing business licenses or permits
- Notifying regulatory agencies (especially in healthcare, finance, and food service)
We’ll make sure you’re in full compliance so your deal doesn’t get delayed—or penalized.
✅ 6. Employment Law Considerations
If the business comes with employees, you may need:
- New or updated employment agreements
- Compliance with Texas labor laws
- Transition plans for key personnel
We also help with non-compete enforcement, HR policies, and employee onboarding post-sale.
✅ 7. Post-Closing Integration & Support
After closing, the real work begins. Our firm offers ongoing general counsel services to help you:
- Renegotiate vendor contracts
- Resolve any seller disputes
- Support business restructuring or rebranding
We don’t just close deals—we stay with you as your business grows.
Work with a Dallas M&A Attorney Who Understands Business
Buying or merging with a business is more than a transaction—it’s a strategic investment. At Wallace Law, PLLC, we combine legal skill with real-world business insight to help entrepreneurs, investors, and executives throughout DFW achieve lasting success.
📞 Call Wallace Law today at (214) 706-9191 for a strategic consultation with a Dallas mergers & acquisitions attorney.
📍 Serving Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington, Plano, Frisco, Richardson, McKinney, and the greater North Texas region.
