Shareholder Activism & Takeover Defense

Shareholder activism has become part of the corporate landscape, and public companies and boards of directors increasingly acknowledge the need to be prepared to respond and defend against activist shareholders and the disruption they bring to the operations of a company.

Our activism and takeover defense team has decades of experience in successfully defending attacks from hostile M&A bidders and activist shareholders. Our lawyers provide strategic and tactical advice to proactively address vulnerabilities and preempt shareholder challenges, or aggressively defend against an active campaign. We bring a cross-disciplinary solution to our clients with expertise in corporate governance, M&A, securities regulation and litigation.

• We develop creative and aggressive solutions to respond to all phases of an activist campaigns.

• Deep network of relationships with other strategic advisors, journalists, opinion-makers and regulators.

• Decades of experience with full proxy contests – not just settlement of campaigns.

• Our team has defended clients against virtually all major activists and we know their "play books."

• We advise boards and c-suites on best practice for refining strategies and evolving governance to strengthen their position and avoid activist pressure.

• Our seasoned and trusted team guides clients throughout campaigns to help achieve the best outcome for the company, the board, and its shareholder.

• We collaborate closely with other activism defense advisors including financial advisors, proxy solicitors and communications firms to prepare forceful responses.

“Paul Hastings is incredibly responsive and provides great business-driven guidance.” Chambers USA, 2024

“Clients want lawyers who provide the best service, including absolute responsiveness, and Paul Hastings delivers.” Chambers USA, 2024