Touchstone Talks: Ep 7 - Holaron and Sage "M&A Attorneys - Better for your team"
In this episode, we sit down with Brad Malicki, an experienced M&A attorney with Halloran Sage to discuss the crucial role legal counsel plays in getting a deal to the finish line. Whether you’re buying or selling, the goal is always the same—negotiate to “yes” and close the deal in a way that works for both sides.
Our guest explains why having the right attorney—one who understands M&A transactions—is essential. From interpreting the Letter of Intent to drafting detailed agreements that prevent future disputes, an experienced M&A attorney knows how to ask the right questions, balance legal protection with deal momentum, and ensure both parties walk away satisfied (if only a little bit happy and a little bit unhappy).
You’ll also hear insights on what differentiates a transactional attorney from a litigator, the importance of clear communication between all parties, and why the best contracts are the ones that get signed, filed, and never need to be revisited.
Creators and Guests
Host
Deborah Agrafojo
Deborah has influenced and directed strategic and owner-operator mergers and acquisitions in many different fields. She believes strongly that assisting a business to grow and develop strong practices is the best way to create a company that is poised for exit planning or gaining an equity growth partner.
Guest
Brad Malicki
Brad Malicki is a transactional attorney focusing on commercial and residential real estate, business, and corporate matters. Brad represents individuals, businesses, and lending institutions in all aspects of real estate purchase, sale, and financing transactions. He embraces the philosophy that “no matter is too big or too small” for him to handle and treats each transaction with the vigor and enthusiasm his clients have grown to expect. In addition, throughout his years in practice, Brad has developed an extensive network of professionals that can assist when needed to ensure the transaction closes, even under the toughest of circumstances. Brad also represents a multitude of business clients; both large, established companies as well as “start-ups” looking to fulfill their entrepreneurial spirit. As part of his business and corporate practice, Brad has extensive experience representing clients purchasing and selling businesses in both stock and asset sale transactions. Brad believes that regardless of the size, each transaction has unique features that require not only a skilled attorney in this discipline, but also an attorney who is willing to work hard and offer creative ideas to overcome the hurdles that arise throughout the transaction. Brad prides himself on that dedication and creativity, thereby bringing his clients to the “finish line” . A staple of Brad’s practice is his representation of businesses involved with liquor. He has successfully guided business owners through the licensing process in matters related to distributing, manufacturing, and selling liquor. Brad regularly represents clients before the Department of Consumer Protection and in matters related to license violations and compliance matters, with the focus on helping the client achieve and maintain compliance, with the least impact on business. Brad is recognized in the 2024 publication of The Best Lawyer s i n Ame rica ® in the area of Real Estate Law. He earned his BA from University of Connecticut and his JD from Western New England University School of Law. He is admitted to practice law in the State of Connecticut and the US Tax Court. ha
Producer
David Chmielewski
At the end of 2013 David founded DirectLine Media, a video production company that specializes in creating memorable and compelling video content for businesses. Admired for his unique and creative visual story telling, David continues to work with small to large businesses and nonprofit organizations.
Editor
Stefania Sassano
Known for being determined and focused, Stefania is often the first to memorize lines and dedicates significant effort to each role. She excels in both comedic and dramatic performances, embracing the motto by Mark Twain, "Find a job you enjoy doing, and you will never have to work a day in your life," making every project both a professional commitment and a joy.