Business Investments Solicitors
Commercial
Legal Advice That Keeps Your Investment on Track
Whether you are raising capital for your business or deploying it into a promising opportunity, the legal framework around that transaction matters enormously. Gurve Legal is a London-based commercial law firm advising both investors and businesses through the investment process, from early funding rounds to structured equity deals.
We act for investors and investee companies alike, which means we understand exactly what each party needs from an agreement and use that knowledge to negotiate from a position of strength.
Whether you are a founder seeking funding or an investor deploying capital, we help structure the deal correctly from the outset.
Our Business Investment Services
Investment Agreement Drafting and Negotiation
A poorly drafted investment agreement can expose both parties to significant risk. We draft, review and negotiate agreements that reflect the commercial realities of your deal.
- Equity investment and subscription agreements
- Convertible loan notes and advance subscription agreements
- Term sheets and heads of terms
- Anti-dilution provisions and pre-emption rights
- Drag-along and tag-along clauses
Investor Due Diligence
Before committing capital, investors need confidence in what they are buying into. We conduct legal due diligence on target companies, covering corporate structure, contracts, employment arrangements and regulatory compliance, and flag issues that matter before exchange. Our IP due diligence service supports this on transactions involving significant intellectual property.
Shareholders Agreements for Investment Rounds
A shareholders agreement becomes essential once external investment comes in. We draft and negotiate agreements governing decision-making, investor protections, exit rights and dividend policy. See our shareholders agreements service for more detail.
EIS and SEIS Advice
Tax-efficient investment structures can make a significant difference to returns. We advise on the legal requirements for EIS and SEIS qualification, working alongside your accountants to ensure the structure protects available reliefs.
Early-Stage and Growth Investment
Early-stage rounds require particular care because the frameworks involved are often still being established. We act for founders and investors in seed and Series A rounds, advising on structure, governance and share class rights. See our startup investments page for founder-focused advice.
Exit Planning and Share Sales
Every investment has an end point. We advise on exit planning, including share sales, buyouts and secondary transactions, ensuring exits are structured efficiently and agreed protections are enforced.
Why Choose Gurve Legal
We Act for Both Investors and Businesses
Most firms pick a side. We advise investors and investee companies alike, giving us a fuller understanding of how the other party thinks and making us more effective negotiators for our clients.
Commercial Advice, Not Just Paperwork
We focus on the commercial outcome, helping clients understand the practical implications of deal terms rather than simply drafting documents and stepping back.
Transparent, Fixed-Fee Options
Investment transactions should not come with open-ended legal bills. We offer transparent pricing on many of our business investment services.
Speed When It Matters
Investment deals move quickly, and delays cost money. Our team is structured to turn around advice and documentation efficiently without compromising quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an equity investment and a convertible loan note?
An equity investment buys shares immediately. A convertible loan note is a loan that converts into shares at a future date or funding event, often at a discount.
Do I need a shareholders agreement if I already have articles of association?
Yes, in most cases. Articles are public and general, while a shareholders agreement is private and covers investor-specific protections in far more detail.
What does an investor look for in due diligence?
Investors typically examine corporate structure, key contracts, intellectual property ownership, employment arrangements and regulatory compliance before committing funds.
Can I lose EIS or SEIS relief after investment?
Yes, certain actions taken after investment can put relief at risk, which is why the legal structure needs to be set up correctly and maintained throughout the qualifying period.
How long does a typical funding round take to complete legally?
Straightforward rounds can complete within four to eight weeks, though more complex deals with multiple investors or detailed due diligence often take longer.
Get Advice from Our Business Investments Solicitors
Whether you are structuring a funding round, reviewing a term sheet, or planning your exit, our team provides experienced, commercially focused advice. Contact us today.