This overview of a complex and often misunderstood subject takes the reader through the issues that are faced throughout the life cycle of a private equity investment, from the identification of an opportunity, through the various stages of the transaction and the lifetime of the investment, to the eventual exit by the investor. The analysis of key documentation and legal issues covers company law, employment law, pensions, taxation, debt funding and competition law, taking into account recent legal developments such as the Companies Act 2006, the recent emergence of private equity in the UK and the challenges faced by the industry as a result of the financial crisis.

Representing Private Equity and Venture Capital-Backed Portfolio Companies provides an authoritative, insiders perspective on successfully navigating the legal environment governing private equity and venture capital funds. Featuring partners from some of the nation's leading law firms, these experts guide the reader through the intricacies of private equity and venture capital law and offer strategies for helping clients thrive in an uncertain economy. Covering key steps such as structuring transactions, securing funding, and standardizing due diligence, these leaders offer advice on upholding clients interests, sustaining appropriate deal flow, and developing corporate legal policies. These top lawyers also give tips on dealing with issues such as takeover defenses, earn-out provisions, and new laws, including the Dodd-Frank Act. The different niches represented and the breadth of perspectives presented enable readers to get inside some of the great legal minds of today, as these experienced lawyers offer up their thoughts around the keys to success within this constantly changing area of law.