Recent News

Part 3 of 3: Integration, Tax, and the Long Tail of M&A

Washington State Business Lawyer C. Michael Kvistad | 10/28/2025
3-Part Series – How Accountants Steer M&A—A Lawyer’s Insight Closing day is a milestone, but it’s not the finish line. Post-close, the real work begins. Integration, tax structuring, and compliance all come into play. And once again, accountants are at the center of it. Integration: Where Systems Meet Strategy Post-merger integration is where good deals… Read More

Part 2 of 3: Protecting Value: Representations and Deal Dynamics

Washington State Business Lawyer C. Michael Kvistad | 10/28/2025
3-Part Series – How Accountants Steer M&A—A Lawyer’s Insight Once the deal structure is set and diligence is underway, the focus shifts to protecting value. This is where accountants and lawyers work side by side crafting representations, making adjustments, and preparing for post-close reconciliation. Representations and Warranties: Built on Financial Reality Representations and warranties are… Read More

Part 1 of 3: From LOI to Diligence: Why Accountants Matter Early On

Washington State Business Lawyer C. Michael Kvistad | 10/21/2025
3-Part Series - How Accountants Steer M&A—A Lawyer’s Insight When a deal begins to take shape, lawyers and accountants are often among the first calls, and for good reasons. Each brings a critical lens to the transaction. In my experience, involving accountants early and often can surface insights that shape structure, uncover risk, and strengthen… Read More

3-Part Series Introduction – How Accountants Steer M&A—A Lawyer’s Insight

Washington State Business Lawyer C. Michael Kvistad | 10/21/2025
This is a three-part series exploring how lawyers and accountants can work together to drive better outcomes in M&A transactions. Whether you’re a business owner preparing for a sale or an advisor guiding clients through the process, this series offers practical insights into how cross-disciplinary collaboration strengthens deals from start to finish. Mergers and acquisitions… Read More

Community Spotlight – ‘Teen Open Call’ Art Exhibition at Graphite Arts Center

C. Michael Kvistad | 9/30/2025
Titled - Summer Walk: Roses Titled - Summer Walk: Hydrangeas Beresford Booth is excited to share aspiring artist Eugenia Kvistad, daughter of attorney Michael Kvistad, will be sharing three of her paintings that were accepted in the upcoming exhibition “Teen Open Call” at The Gallery at Graphite Arts Center in downtown Edmonds. Do not miss… Read More

What LLC Members Can Learn from the Tegna–Sinclair Merger

Washington State Business Lawyer C. Michael Kvistad | 9/22/2025
As Tegna and Sinclair Broadcasting propose a high-profile merger in the local television space, the headlines may seem distant from the day-to-day concerns of small business owners. But beneath the surface, this deal offers valuable insights for LLCs navigating ownership transitions, mergers, and strategic exits. Here are four key lessons worth considering. 1. Valuation Premiums… Read More

Giorgio Armani’s Succession Plan and the Art of Selling a Legacy

Washington State Business Lawyer C. Michael Kvistad | 9/18/2025
Valuation Vigilance: Planning the Sale of a Business with Purpose and Protection When Giorgio Armani passed away, he left behind more than a fashion empire—he left a roadmap for how to sell a business with precision. His will outlines a phased sale: a 15% stake within 18 months, followed by up to 54.9% over five… Read More

Seller Representations and Warranties in Asset Purchase Agreements

Washington State Business and Real Estate Lawyer C. Michael Kvistad | 8/27/2025
In the world of mergers and acquisitions, the asset purchase agreement (“APA”) is a cornerstone document, and seller representations and warranties are among its most scrutinized provisions. Understanding the purpose, scope, and strategic implications of these clauses is essential. What Are Representations and Warranties For? At their core, seller representations and warranties are about building… Read More

Washington’s Digital Ad Tax: What Businesses Need to Know

Washington State Business and Real Estate Lawyer C. Michael Kvistad | 7/2/2025
Effective October 1, 2025, Washington will begin imposing retail sales tax on a broader array of services, including digital advertising. This change, enacted through Senate Bill 5814, amends RCW 82.04.050 to expand the definition of “retail sale” to include various digital and technology-related services. What’s Covered? The amended statute encompasses digital advertising services as well… Read More