Tax law

Tax considerations can materially affect how a transaction is structured. Whether you are buying or selling a business, acquiring shares or assets, or completing a management buy-out, we advise alongside the corporate transaction from an early stage. 

We help clients identify liabilities and opportunities before they affect value, so the tax questions are answered long before completion.

Bringing companies together, separating businesses, reorganising a group or preparing for a future transaction - all things which have significant tax implications. We advise on the tax aspects of group reorganisations, restructurings and demergers.

Taking specialist advice before structural changes are made is critical. We help clients understand the tax consequences of each option, so restructuring decisions protect value and leave the business well placed for investment, sale or succession.

Share schemes and other equity incentives can align key people with the growth of the business, but they need appropriate tax and legal structuring. We advise on designing and implementing schemes that help businesses recruit, retain and reward the people who matter most.

From tax-advantaged schemes and share options to bespoke equity arrangements, we shape incentives around your commercial objectives and consider how they will operate if the business is sold or restructured.

Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) and VAT can be significant elements of a commercial property transaction. We advise on the tax implications of buying, selling and holding commercial property, including property held within corporate structures.

By identifying SDLT and VAT issues early, we help clients avoid unexpected costs and structure acquisitions and disposals efficiently, working alongside our commercial property and corporate teams where property forms part of a wider transaction.

The way a business pays, rewards and incentivises its people carries tax consequences for both employer and employee. We advise on the tax treatment of remuneration, benefits, incentives and employment-related securities.

Working alongside our employment team, we also advise on the tax issues that arise where employees are affected by a corporate transaction, helping businesses get the structure right and avoid costly exposure.

For owner-managed businesses, the tax position of the company and the individual owner are closely linked. We advise business owners and shareholders on the tax implications of selling or restructuring a business, changes in ownership and succession.

Our advice is built around the decisions and events that shape a business owner's future - from management and shareholder arrangements to planning an exit - so you can move forward knowing the tax consequences in advance.