“It’s a huge decision to buy or sell a company, and it often comes with major complexities,” said Mark Williamson. “I pride myself on taking challenging issues and providing understandable advice, negotiating transactions fairly and professionally, and maintaining a calm demeanor, all focusing on obtaining the best outcome for clients.” According to one client, “Mark is responsive and has excellent business judgment in negotiating and the nuances of selling a business. He always has the best interest of his client at heart and understands the intricate and often complicated dynamics between the business seller and buyer.” Another client said, “I couldn’t have asked for a better team. I appreciate the advice I received, and the expertise provided to get the best deal possible. I always felt very confident that Mark had my back.”

Mark Williamson, a business lawyer who predominantly represents buyers and sellers of businesses in mergers and acquisitions, chairs Lathrop GPM’s Business Transactions Practice Group. He is a prolific advisor on M&A and securities deals, with extensive experience representing business owners (families, entrepreneurs and individuals), public and private companies, private equity firms and management teams. He provides legal advice based on the unique circumstances and objectives of each transaction, assists in strategic decision-making, works to uncover potential issues that may impact the sale and helps to avoid unwelcome surprises.

Mark guides clients of all sizes, generally worth anywhere from $10 million to $500 million, through the intricacies of corporate transactions including mergers and acquisitions, public and private offerings and leveraged buyouts. He also represents public and private companies in securities compliance, corporate governance and general business matters and serves as counsel to a number of privately held companies and ESOPs, advising on day-to-day legal and business matters. His industry experience includes:

  • eCommerce
  • Energy / Alternative Energy / Utilities
  • Franchise
  • Health Care / Medical Device
  • Higher Education
  • Manufacturing
  • Professional Services
  • Retail
  • Senior Living Services
  • Technology / Information Technology / Software
  • Telecommunications
  • Waste Management

Many investment bankers, wealth advisors, accountants and other lawyers refer their clients to Mark, knowing he will help the client to ensure compliance with complex regulatory requirements, mitigate the risk of legal complications and employ negotiation skills to secure the most favorable sale terms possible. Mark’s in-depth understanding of mergers and acquisitions helps to ensure fair and appropriate deal terms, protecting sellers from unanticipated consequences.

According to Mark, “I take an active, responsive role with clients and endeavor to serve as their trusted advisor. It is critical to be responsive and practical when working with clients – the legal approach is only part of the solution and must be balanced with the business needs.”

In addition to client representation, Mark works internally at Lathrop GPM to build strong teams and mentor younger lawyers. According to one colleague, “Mark is a fantastic listener and offers practical solutions and advice to our Business Transaction team members across all levels of experience. He truly cares about clients and colleagues, and it shows.”