Going Public
Public Offerings
Registration statements, direct listings and the reporting obligations that come with becoming a public company.
Registration under the Securities Act
Unless an exemption applies, securities offered to the public must be registered with the SEC. For most operating companies that means a Form S-1 with audited financial statements, a business description, risk factors, use of proceeds and management disclosure.
SEC staff review the filing and issue comment letters. Answering them accurately and efficiently is often the difference between a registration that goes effective on schedule and one that stalls for months.
We prepare registration statements, manage the comment process and get companies ready for the reporting obligations that begin on effectiveness.
The public offering process
01
Form S-1 registration
The registration statement, prospectus and exhibits required to register an offering.
02
SEC comment process
Responses to staff comment letters and amendments through to effectiveness.
03
Direct listings
Listing existing shares on an exchange without a traditional underwritten offering.
04
Regulation A+ alternative
For smaller raises, a Tier 2 offering can reach public investors with lighter obligations.
05
Exchange Act reporting
Periodic reporting once effective, including Forms 10-K, 10-Q and 8-K.
06
Underwriter coordination
Working with underwriters, auditors and transfer agents to hold the timeline.
Public offering legal services
Registration statement drafting
Full preparation of the S-1, prospectus and supporting exhibits.
Comment letter responses
Strategic responses to SEC staff comments and amendments.
Corporate governance
Charter, bylaw and board structure work ahead of a listing.
Ongoing reporting support
Periodic and current reports once the company is public.
Considering a public offering?
Schedule a consultation to discuss whether registration or an exempt offering fits your goals.
