Buying or Selling Shares.

Legal Advice for Buying or Selling Shares in a Business

Buying or selling shares involves legal, commercial, and strategic complexity. We provide legal guidance to help you understand your rights, manage risk, and complete share transactions with confidence.

Buying Shares in a Company

When acquiring shares, we assist with:

• Reviewing share sale and purchase agreements

• Advising on warranties, conditions, and indemnities

• Assessing shareholder rights, governance arrangements, and potential liabilities

• Clarifying your legal standing before and after the transaction

Selling Shares in Your Business

If you are selling shares, we support you by:

• Drafting or reviewing sale agreements

• Advising on disclosure obligations and obtaining third‑party consents

• Identifying ongoing responsibilities following the sale

• Ensuring your legal interests are protected during and after the transaction

Share Transactions in Context

We regularly advise clients in share transactions associated with:

• Business succession planning

• Company restructuring

• Bringing in new investors

• Exiting joint ventures or shifting ownership structures

Where We Work

Our commercial law team is based in Wellington, Lower Hutt, and Masterton, and supports clients across New Zealand. Whether your transaction is local or part of a broader restructure, we deliver legal advice tailored to your objectives and commercial realities.

Questions We Often Get Asked About Share Transactions

Do I need a lawyer to buy or sell shares in a business?

Yes. Legal advice ensures the agreement reflects your interests, complies with company law, and addresses important details like warranties, governance rights, and exit terms.

What is the difference between a share sale and an asset sale?

A share sale transfers ownership of the company, including its liabilities. An asset sale involves transferring specific business assets. We help you evaluate which option best fits your situation.

What risks should I be aware of when acquiring shares?

Risks may include undisclosed liabilities, governance uncertainties, or conflicts with existing shareholders. We assist you with due diligence to uncover and manage these potential issues.

Can I sell a minority shareholding?

Yes. Selling a minority interest often involves conditions such as rights of first refusal, shareholder agreement obligations, or approval requirements. We review those terms to help you structure a clear, fair transaction.