Hard Doesn’t Scare Us - We’re Built for It

“A lot of lawyers deal with contracts…what’s different about doing private equity mergers and acquisitions?” I could give you a technical explanation (and I do elsewhere) or I could show you a picture. Here is what I looked like on “Closing Day” after a complex, six-month private equity acquisition process.  

Advising private equity clients (particularly on the buy-side), requires experience and skill, but also mental stamina and agility, grit and willpower. In a recent intro call to another firm, they remarked how “with a team of ten attorneys” they’re really comfortable representing sellers, but don’t do much buy-side work because of how involved the process is. 

I get it. Every attorney isn’t built for M&A, let alone the additional complexity of implementing a comprehensive acquisition strategy for a PE client. 

But me? I’m a little different. Some might even say a bit “off.” What do I mean? I went into freshman year at Princeton planning to major in English but quickly switched when I realized a more challenging discipline (for me) existed. In a first semester Comparative Literature class, I got my *** handed to me badly. Think letter grades that I never knew existed and a first essay with the words “obvious” bleeding on multiple pages in Professor DHR’s crimson handwriting. I learned that to major in “Comp Lit” at Princeton, you had to demonstrate fluency in one language and proficiency in a second, and take advanced coursework in both. My response was to dive wholeheartedly into the department that would challenge me more. I also requested Professor DHR as one of my two senior thesis graders (the A- he gave me lowered my final grade, but is one of the most valued wins of my academic career*).

To be clear, at Cadet Legal we don’t love complexity or seek it out for its own sake. However, when complexity stands between you and your business goals, we’re a team that attacks that challenge for you with dexterity and determination. Ironically, to deal with complexity, you have to be willing and able to grapple with it enough to make it simple. My clients know that, all things being equal, I prefer the most simple solutions for the most complex issues.

You should pick a team able to handle your complex transaction with care and efficiency. Our team at Cadet Legal is lean, hungry, and digs deep for our clients. Not only that, but we’ll get the deal closed on Friday and by Monday be ready to execute the next move in your empire building strategy. 

Bonus footage: Below is a throwback before and after - my face the last day of finals for my first semester at NYU Law versus my face after two days of recovery. 

*That’s a note on tackling challenges in my academic career. I could write a whole separate post on how my upbringing as the oldest of nine forged my resolve to support and protect the dreams of others despite difficulty.

Disclaimer. The contents of this article should not be construed as legal advice or a legal opinion on any specific facts or circumstances. Your viewing and/or use of the contents of this article do not create an attorney-client relationship with Cadet Legal. The contents are intended for general informational purposes only, and you are urged to consult with counsel concerning your situation and specific legal questions you may have.