In the first-ever masterclass hosted by Lawyers Weekly, two partners from Herbert Smith Freehills presented on what constitutes a successful contract in a private business acquisition.
Malika Chandrasegaran and Rebecca Maslen-Stan explored the myriad directions that practitioners can and should consider when acting in a purchase and sale of a business transaction
Last Tuesday, 10 November, Lawyers Weekly held its first-ever masterclass, exploring how best legal professionals can navigate the purchase and sale of a business.
The session – “Private business acquisitions: Executing a flawless contract” – was hosted in conjunction with Herbert Smith Freehills, with partners Malika Chandrasegaran and Rebecca Maslen-Stannage acting as the buyer and seller, respectively, in a hypothetical case study (inspired by former matters they have acted on) where a US-based venture capital company wanted to acquire an Australian videoconferencing business.
Leading registrants through a comprehensive workbook, Ms Chandrasegaran and Ms Maslen-Stannage explored the myriad directions that practitioners can and should consider when acting in such a transaction, together with regulatory, socio-economic, environmental and even pandemic-related concerns pertaining to the completion of the transaction.
The session was interactive, with registrants able to vote in polls which would determine which direction the pair had to take the conversation, as well as giving them the capacity to ask questions throughout.
Reflecting on the masterclass, Lawyers Weekly deputy editor Jerome Doraisamy – who moderated the session – said the brand was incredibly fortunate to have been able to partner with HSF for the event.
“Malika and Rebecca put together the most extraordinary interactive presentation that all registrants will have benefited enormously from.
“Their delivery was as instructive as it was relatable, and – as we turn our attention to the post-pandemic marketplace – such guidance from senior practitioners will be critical for the emerging generation,” he proclaimed.
“I strongly recommend anyone who missed this masterclass to sign up for it in anticipation of next year’s CPD deadlines.”
This masterclass, worth two CPD points, can still be viewed. You can purchase access to it here.
In 2021, Lawyers Weekly will be hosting more masterclasses as part of its new series, including a soon-to-be-announced three-part series with another global law firm.
If you have any questions about the Lawyers Weekly Masterclass Series, please contact Jerome Doraisamy at