Getting your legal practice prepared for a merger or to be acquired is essential to ensure a seamless transition and secure the best possible deal. At Carton & Co, we help law firm partners and owners make their practice more attractive as an acquisition target. By tapping into our deep legal sector expertise and practical business development experience with solicitors, we position your firm for a successful merger or sale.

With a unique blend of legal industry insight, commercial acumen, and hands-on implementation expertise, we support firms to improve their business to be able to present it with more appeal and value to potential acquirers — whether trade buyers, private equity investors, or merger partners.

Why This Matters

The legal market is changing rapidly: consolidation is accelerating, new entrants and ABS structures are reshaping competition, and acquirers are increasingly sophisticated. They are looking for firms with:

✔️  Strong financial performance and sustainable margins

✔️  Differentiated market positioning

✔️  Scalable and systemised operations

✔️  Robust client relationships and retention

✔️  Forward-looking leadership and growth potential

Firms that meet these criteria command higher valuations and more attractive acquisition terms, so we help you get there.  We work with managing partners, boards, and key stakeholders to identify and implement changes that improve the attractiveness of the firm to acquirers.

Our support includes:

🌈 Strategic Positioning - To identify and clearly articulate your firm’s unique market value and future potential.

🌈 Growth Potential - Co-create a compelling business case for the future that will resonate with potential acquirers and investors.

🌈 Finance & Operations - Ensuring a leaner, better-run firm with clearer profitability levers and less risk for acquirers.

🌈 Client Base & Relationships - to define and present a resilient client portfolio, aligned with your buyers' interests.

🌈 Talent and Succession - Add to the value of your people, develop options for their retention and development to ensure continuity.

🌈 Market Engagement - Supporting your strategic engagement with acquirers who align with your values and goals.

Why Work With Us

With decades of experience in legal business development, we understand the intricacies of law firm operations and the expectations of potential acquirers.

Preparing your law firm for acquisition is a strategic move that can significantly enhance its value and appeal to potential buyers. By focusing on financial health, operational efficiency, client relationships, compliance, staff management, and marketing, you can ensure a smooth and successful acquisition process. For tailored advice and support, contact Carton & Co today.

Let’s Talk - in confidence

Whether you're planning an exit in the next 1–3 years or want to future-proof your firm, we can help you build a more valuable, buyer-ready business.

YOUR NEXT STEP:  Schedule a Free Consultation with Allan Carton.