Overview

Corporate acquisitions in the middle market are key drivers for the global economy. New participants are entering the buyout landscape as record liquidity and generational transition expand opportunities. Katten handles billions of dollars in middle-market business combinations each year. We parlay granular market knowledge to keep clients competitive and close deals.

Commercial legal solutions add deal value

Our M&A platform leverages competitive intelligence and creative structures to manage transactional risk. Experienced in takeovers — routine and complex — we use practical market insights to remove deal barriers. Private equity fund and portfolio company counsel is a major focus. We also advise family offices, independent sponsors, strategic buyers and their financers in private company mergers, acquisitions and divestitures.

Complicated and novel transactions require sophisticated counsel. We know the critical issues — business and legal — to address in leveraged buyouts (LBOs), equity financings, add-on acquisitions, leveraged dividends, divestitures and other middle-market transactions. Our efficient deal teams provide practical solutions throughout the life of the investment. We coordinate resident authorities who address your issues in tax, antitrust, intellectual property, executive compensation and other high-risk areas.

Innovative global M&A spans industries

Katten's prominence in market-leading and novel LBOs creates competitive advantages. Our global deal- making resources connect clients with new opportunities. We provide seamless, integrated counsel on cross-border transactions throughout Europe, Asia and North America. Industry depth adds value at every juncture, from initial investment through follow-on transactions and eventual exit, and includes extensive experience in:

  • Education
  • Financial services
  • Health care
  • Information technology
  • Investment funds
  • Manufacturing
  • Parking and transportation
  • Pharmaceuticals and life sciences
  • Publishing and media
  • Sports

"Katten is a strong value for mid-market Mergers & Acquisitions practice with a deep bench and responsive, practical attorneys."

U.S. News – Best Lawyers® 2022 "Best Law Firms"
(Mergers and Acquisitions Law) survey response