Preparing the first consultation
A good first meeting saves time and money later. This checklist helps buyers and sellers gather the key facts about the planned company purchase before the first appointment.
The clearer the goal of the transaction and the more complete the basic facts about the target, the more solid the first legal assessment can be. This includes the basic structure (share deal or asset deal), the figures of recent years, financing considerations and a realistic timeline.
This checklist is a guide and does not replace an assessment of the individual case. It helps you to proceed in a structured way and to have ready the information that is most often missing in the first meeting.
Work through the points before the appointment. You can tick off each point; the status is stored on your device. Use the buttons to print or reset the list.
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01 Deal goal and role
First clarify what you want to achieve and in which role you act.
02 Key facts about the target
These details describe what is to be bought or sold.
03 Structure, financing and timeline
This shows whether the transaction is realistic and financeable.
What matters legally
In a share deal, company shares are transferred; in an asset deal, individual assets and contracts. The transfer of GmbH shares requires a notarial deed (§ 76 GmbHG). The choice of structure therefore already decides form, taxes and liability.
In an asset deal, liability for business-related obligations can apply (§ 38 UGB), and a transfer of business triggers protections for employment relationships (AVRAG). Which structure and which documents make sense in the individual case depends on the target, the tax situation and financing.
This checklist is a general guide to the Austrian legal position (as of June 2026) and makes no claim to completeness or legal certainty. It does not replace advice in the individual case and is not a finished legal document.
BRANDAUER Rechtsanwälte
Salzburg law firm for corporate, company and transaction law
Every transaction is handled by a coordinated team of lawyers, legal staff and specialists. In company acquisition matters we look at structure, contract, tax and liability together.
Structuring a deal, reviewing a contract, securing the risks?
When buying a company, structure, review and contract decide. Call us directly or send an email, callback within one business day.
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Address
BRANDAUER Rechtsanwälte GmbH Giselakai 51 5020 Salzburg
Phone
+43 662 6280000