Big City Experience,
Small Town Prices.

M & A Law Firm

Welcome to Legal Dealmakers.

We are a premier boutique law firm serving the needs of businesses in Vermont and beyond. We offer a comprehensive range of services with specialties in corporate law, mergers and acquisitions, and outside general counsel. We pride ourselves on transparency, collaboration, and client-forward corporate services. Whether you are a new company looking to grow, an established company seeking a transition plan, or an individual exploring entrepreneurship through acquisition, we have the expertise to help achieve your goals.

Learn more about our services.

Recent News

Buying Your Way In: How the E2 Visa Turns Business Acquisition Into Immigration Strategy

For foreign nationals from treaty countries, the E2 visa turns business acquisition into a path to U.S. work authorization. But coordinating an M&A deal with an immigration petition introduces complications most buyers don't anticipate. From the "substantial investment" test to active management requirements and the question of what happens when you want a green card, here's what searchers and sellers need to know before structuring a deal.

The 338(g) Tax Election: What Searchers Need to Know About This Powerful Tax Tool

The 338(g) tax election lets buyers treat a stock purchase as an asset purchase for tax purposes, stepping up the basis in the target's assets. The catch? It triggers immediate tax consequences for the seller, making it a negotiation point rather than a unilateral decision. Here's when it makes sense and how it differs from 338(h)(10) and 336(e) elections.

Beyond Reps and Warranties: Why Intellectual Property Due Diligence Can Make or Break an M&A Deal

In today's service and technology driven economy, a company's intellectual property (IP) is often its most valuable asset. Yet, in the realm of Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A), Intellectual Property Due Diligence (IPDD) is frequently misunderstood or assumed to be covered by other departments. Buyers often make the mistake of relying solely on standard public record searches or the seller's representations and warranties. As highlighted in a recent webinar hosted by Cogency Gl

Why Law Firm Ownership Is Different From Other Business Acquisitions

Can a non-lawyer buy a law firm? Not easily. Strict professional rules limit who can own a law practice and how legal fees can be shared. This post explores the challenges non-attorney buyers face in law firm acquisitions and how structures like MSOs can sometimes help navigate those limitations.

What Is an 83(b) Election?

If you’re receiving equity that vests over time, whether as a founder or acquisition entrepreneur, an 83(b) election could significantly impact your tax bill. By choosing to be taxed at grant rather than at vesting, you may reduce ordinary income exposure and position future appreciation for capital gains treatment. Here’s what founders and buyers need to know before filing.

What Schedule III Means for Cannabis Businesses

Reclassifying marijuana as a Schedule III substance could impact how cannabis businesses operate and grow. With potential tax relief on the horizon and shifting buyer expectations, cannabis operators should understand how this change affects financials, compliance, and long-term exit planning.

$165m

value of deals closed

years of experience

deals closed in 2025

"Working with Sterrett Law during my business acquisition was an absolute game-changer. Dave and his team took care of every detail—from legal due diligence to all the paperwork—so I could stay focused on the big picture. They were super supportive, kept me in the loop at every stage, and were flexible enough to adapt to any last-minute changes. If you’re an entrepreneur looking to buy a business, I can’t recommend Sterrett Law enough. They truly understand the ins and outs of the process and make you feel confident every step of the way."

Sofia Quintero

Big City Experience, Small Town Prices.