SPA Reference
Cite the SPA title, original date, and parties so the joinder expressly attaches to that agreement and all defined terms carry over.
A properly drafted joinder ensures the new party is contractually bound, reduces ambiguity at closing, and preserves the SPA’s intended allocation of rights and obligations. It helps prevent disputes over standing, post-closing claims, and document gaps that can delay funding or transfer of ownership.
Teams that prepare or sign joinders include corporate counsel, transaction attorneys, acquiring entities, investor representatives, and corporate officers who can bind a legal entity.
Accurate execution and authority confirmation reduce post-closing disputes and speed fund release and recordation processes.
Cite the SPA title, original date, and parties so the joinder expressly attaches to that agreement and all defined terms carry over.
Provide the full legal name and entity type of the party joining the SPA to avoid identity ambiguity and ensure enforceability.
State the effective date using MM/DD/YYYY format and whether it is retroactive to the SPA effective date or effective upon signature.
Specify which obligations, covenants, indemnities, and schedules the joining party accepts to prevent later scope disputes.
Include a clause reciting that the signer has authority to bind the joining entity and reference any board or member resolutions if required.
Provide name, title, capacity language, and signature lines for all required signatories; include witness or notary lines if jurisdictionally necessary.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Authentication | Email link plus SMS code for higher-assurance signers |
| Field Types | Signature, printed name, title, date, and initials |
| Sign Order | Sequential for primary signers; parallel for ancillary parties |
| Reminders | Set reminders at 48 hours and one week |
Choose a platform that supports required file formats, audit trails, and authentication appropriate to the transaction.
Ensure the chosen solution can export a tamper-evident signed PDF and retain the audit trail for recordkeeping and potential dispute resolution.
| signNow | DocuSign | Adobe Sign | PandaDoc | HelloSign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $8/user/mo | $15/user/mo | $14/user/mo | $19/user/mo | $15/user/mo |
| Free Trial | Yes, 7-day trial | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan |
| Bulk Send | Yes (Business Premium) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Envelope Cap | No cap | 100 envelopes/user/yr | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan |
Set using MM/DD/YYYY; aligns joinder with SPA timeline
Often tied to the SPA closing date or specified cut-off
Coordinate joinder execution to occur before or at closing
Some transactions require local filings; timelines vary by county
Begin retention from joinder effective date
Prepare joinder referencing SPA and exhibits
Obtain board or member authorization where required
Collect signatures and notarizations if applicable
Save signed PDF/A and distribute to stakeholders
A small property acquirer needed a quick addition to an SPA to include a new funding partner
An investor entity joining a purchase agreement required formal acceptance of transfer restrictions
Company counsel drafts or reviews joinders to confirm alignment with the SPA, prepares necessary corporate authorizations, and advises on witness or notarization requirements; counsel also ensures that obligations assumed by the joining party are properly described.
The authorized officer (e.g., CEO or CFO) signs on behalf of the joining entity, confirms authority to bind the company, and provides capacity language; if required, the officer attaches a board resolution ratifying the joinder.
| Criteria | Joinder | Amendment |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | add party | modify terms |
| Consent Required | yes from joining party | yes from spa parties |
| Scope | limited to party accession | can change obligations |
| Use Case | new investor joins | term, price, or schedule changes |
Attach a copy or cite the SPA to ensure the joinder clearly references the underlying agreement and its defined terms.
Include a certified board or member resolution authorizing execution of the joinder when required by company bylaws or state law.
Provide a secretary certificate confirming the entity’s existence and the signer’s authority if corporate evidence is necessary.
Attach a POA when an agent or attorney-in-fact signs on the joining party’s behalf; include notarization if the jurisdiction requires it.