Due diligence plays a critical role in the sell-side M&A process, as it allows potential buyers to thoroughly assess the target company's operations, financial performance, legal matters, and potential risks. This comprehensive assessment helps buyers make informed decisions regarding the acquisition and negotiate deal terms that accurately reflect the value and risk profile of the target company. Additionally, a well-executed due diligence process can identify and mitigate potential deal-breakers and facilitate a smoother transaction process.