Layered AI for mid‑market M&A, built for growth and integration

AI has become and will continue to be a critical infrastructure for lawyers, accountants, and investment bankers. Those who are able to embrace the evolving landscape of AI without relying on it blindly will be those who are able to rise to the next level. At Thompson Burton, AI tools are combined with tailored models to create a “tech stack” specific to each deal. This layered architecture supports the full M&A lifecycle: market scanning and target screening, first‑draft generation for core agreements, comparative risk mapping across diligence streams, regulatory and tax structuring analysis, integration planning, and post‑close value realisation and integration.

By automating the heavy lifting of precedent retrieval, term harmonisation, and diligence synthesis, our attorneys focus on higher‑order strategy, negotiation, and risk allocation – precisely where judgment moves the needle in mid‑market transactions. Associates can convert complex inputs (term sheets, collaboration agreements, historical covenants) into working drafts in minutes, not hours, while partner‑level oversight ensures precision and deal‑specific nuance. The result is greater deal velocity, tighter alignment with client objectives, and an ability to compete for a broader range of transactions without compromising quality.

AI should not be used to replace the human element of judgment but should be used to facilitate creativity and remove the clutter of the mundane to focus on the core elements that truly bring value to clients. In practice, this means faster, more accurate deliverables at a lower effective cost. Those who put fees above the client will fall. Expertise is easy to find, trust is more difficult. The core issues that exist within AI utilisation are inevitably the failure to verify its outputs. Numerous lawyers, and even federal judges in the United States have fallen victim to this reality. 

Thompson Burton embeds our AI workflows to integrate the work of a client’s certified public accountants (CPAs) and financial advisors to unlock previously unexperienced synergies. This one‑firm‑feel execution provides a cleaner solution and a satisfying client experience. 

Our client pitches showcase live AI workflows and governance protocols, so clients understand not just the deliverables, but the “how” behind them. Creativity and technology should be used to forge meaningful client connections and deliver outstanding results, reshaping what middle‑market M&A can be and redefining the art of law. It’s understandable to be hesitant about implementing an AI strategy, but to reject its use outright will only leave detractors behind. 

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Clay Brewer focuses on advising both established companies and startups on a wide range of matters such as business planning, capital raising, corporate structuring, regulatory risk, mergers and acquisitions, and cross-border transactions.

Jon E. Field is Co-Leader of Thompson Burton’s Corporate Team practicing in the areas of business organizations, corporate governance, licensing, mergers and acquisitions, securities, and all aspects of development and finance.