Noted for its focus on mid-market work, the team at Brabners LLP is well-versed in all manner of corporate work including mergers and acquisitions, private equity, group reorganisations, insolvency and employee ownership transitions. On the commercial side, contracts, e-commerce and data protection matters are all key workflows. Corporate lawyer Mark Rathbone co-heads the practice alongside healthcare regulatory specialist Richard Hough, who advises on outsourcing and franchising matters. Nicola Lomas acts for NHS and private dental practices, while Colin Bell regularly deals with IP matters. Other names to note include David Maples, who advises charities and social enterprises on governance and constitutional issues; Victoria Trigwell, well-versed in issues relating to IT services agreements, agency and distribution; and Daniel Hayhurst, who focuses on transactional matters.
Corporate and commercial: Liverpool in North West
Brabners LLP
Practice head(s):
Richard Hough; Mark Rathbone
Other key lawyers:
Nicola Lomas; Colin Bell; David Maples; Victoria Trigwell; Andrew O’Mahony; Daniel Hayhurst
Testimonials
‘In an age where firms are keen to funnel you through their internal processes, Brabners have found a way to still deliver expert advice but in a highly personal way. The corporate and commercial team cut to the chase and write in plain English.’
‘Daniel Hayhurst is a bright spark who is always on. His knowledge of corporate is immense.’
‘Andrew O’Mahony is very experienced and calm regardless of the amount of pressure on the table.’
Key clients
Human Recognition Systems (HRS)
Peel Ports Group
Yodel Delivery Network
Parcel2Go
Proact International Limited
Henry Bath & Son Limited
Medtrade Products Ltd
James Hall & Company Ltd (SPAR)
Parasol Ltd
Commonwealth Games Federation
Group Tyre UK Ltd
NWF Group plc
Open Outdoor Media Ltd
Cityheart Ltd
Innox Trading Ltd
GoJoe App Limited
Sinara Consultants Limited
Shaw Trust Ltd
Veka Plc
Chartersync Ltd
Neuven Solutions Limited
Travel Counsellors Limited
Lucid Games Ltd
Commonwealth Games Federation
Suez Advanced Solutions UK Limited
Peel Ports Ltd
Corgi Services Ltd
Biograd Limited
Cobalt Housing
Nanosun Ltd
Oneday Ltd
Vascular Perspectives
Terminal Investment Limited Sarl
Atlas Copco Limited
NW Risk Solutions Ltd
River Capital
Mercia Asset Management
Work highlights
- Advised the shareholders of CRP Subsea Holdings Ltd on their sale to Advanced Innergy Solutions.
- Acted for the Commonwealth Games Federation on a number of matters including their relationship with a sports marketing and entertainment agency.
DLA Piper UK LLP
DLA Piper UK LLP acts for a wide range of domestic and multinational corporate clients, including leading consumer goods companies, agricultural producers, and manufacturers. James Kerrigan focuses on M&A and private equity investments, with demonstrable experience across the manufacturing, technology and media sectors. He leads the practice with commercial expert Sarah Bell, who is well-versed in outsourcing and partnering arrangements. Peter Brook handles outsourcing and collaboration agreements, while Paddy Dwyer advises on franchising and supply models for clients in the public sector.
Practice head(s):
James Kerrigan; Sarah Bell
Other key lawyers:
Peter Brook; Paddy Dwyer
Testimonials
‘I’ve found this practice unique in its approach to clients. Very open and clear, breaking down legalese to layman’s terms, and always making clear what is required when decisions are to be made over risk and interpretation of the contracts. Available and flexible with respect to our needs.’
‘Paddy Dwyer’s calm, highly informed, and open manner has been a huge asset when dealing with contracts that have been contentious and related to sensitive government projects. Very solution-focused and pragmatic about risks, clarifying impact around indemnity, liability and insurance in particular.’
‘Highly adept at drafting, negotiating and resolving disputes. Able to adapt their style and explain in a variety of ways that suits the range of commercial and legal knowledge.’
‘Sarah Bell and Paddy Dwyer are excellent communicators who can tailor their styles and very much have become part of our team.’
‘The DLA Piper Team has strength in depth; able to provide expert/skills on the multitude of topics as/when appropriate. DLA Piper are very mindful of meeting the objective, and ensure that they are providing value for money. Very focused on applying the extensive experience of what works/hasn’t worked elsewhere.’
‘The DLA Piper team are highly skilled, but work collaboratively with a personal touch. Peter Brook and Sarah Bell stand out as partners who have a wealth of experience that they are able to apply, and are able to support and communicate complex legal issues to the team.’
Key clients
Arvato Group
Duracell
Sefton Metropolitan Borough Council
Liverpool Football Club
Suttons Group
UK Government
Unilever
Sciontec
The Contact Company
Elite Telecom plc
The Advanta Group Limited
Sonova UK Limited
Suttons Group Limited
Elan Homes Limited
Keoghs LLP
John Laing Investments Limited
Elite Telecom plc
Work highlights
- Advised on many complex and key commercial contracts for the UK government.
- Advised Sonova on the acquisition of the entire issue share capital of FM Hearing Systems UK.
Hill Dickinson LLP
Hill Dickinson LLP is a key port of call for a broad roster of clients, from large private companies to start-ups, partnerships and private individuals. On the corporate side, the practice routinely handles mid-market private equity and cross-border work for local and international companies. Practice head Matt Noon focuses on M&A work covering share and asset acquisitions and disposals. Craig Scott specialises in private equity, acting for both funds and management teams, while Jonathan Brown is involved in the acquisition of airports, airlines, and distribution companies. Further names to note include Mike Jones and Sue Russell , who are both are well-versed in M&A transactions.
Practice head(s):
Matt Noon
Other key lawyers:
Craig Scott; Jonathan Brown; Mike Jones; Sue Russell
Testimonials
‘Significant senior attention and commercial approach.’
‘Craig Scott has a very commercial approach, cutting through to key issues for us as a client.’
Key clients
Fishawack Health Group
Tactus Holdings Limited
Challenge-TRG Group
Richard Baker Harrison Limited
Bromborough Paint & Building Supplies Limited
Downing Students
Broadway Partners Limited
DPRS Liverpool Limited
Barber Of Sheffield
Mercia Asset Management and Management Team
SF Parks Limited
Nkt Group A/S
Redde Northgate Plc
Jade Solutions Limited
Work highlights
- Advised Olympic swimming trio Becky Adlington, Steve Parry and Adrian Turner on the sale of 60 per cent of their business, Total Swimming Group, to JD Sports, in a deal worth up to £15m.
- Advised Edward Billington and Son Limited (EBS) on its acquisition of 50 per cent of the shares in agricultural supplier Carrs Billington Agriculture from joint owner Carr’s Group plc.
- Advised CRH plc on the English law aspects of the divestment by it of its Building Envelope business division to KPS Capital Partners, LP in a deal worth $3.8 billion.
DWF
The commercial team at DWF is noted for its retail sector acumen, acting for a robust portfolio of blue-chip clients, both domestic and international in scale. On the corporate front, the practice is particularly experienced in M&A, management buy-outs and shareholder matters. Corporate expert Liz Clark co-heads the team with Ben Cooke, who focuses on commercial issues within the consumer industry. Rachael Burke is well-versed in e-commerce and logistics, while Christine Williams frequently works on matters in the energy sector.
Practice head(s):
Ben Cooke; Liz Clark; Rachael Burke; Christine Williams
Testimonials
‘The corporate team have provided me with an excellent level of service over the years. They are transparent, approachable and manage my expectations well.’
‘One to one contact. Always display a can-do attitude.’
Key clients
ACC Liverpool
AS Watson
Aurelius Private Equity
Burton Biscuits
Electrolux
Elvie
Fieldway IPC
Homebase
Inflexion Private Equity Partners
JD Sports
KP Snacks
Liverpool Arena and Convention Centre
Liverpool John Moores University
Lloyds Development Capital
Marks & Spencer
Morrisons
Ocado Retail
Pact Coffee
PhD Industrial Holdings
Sciris Group
SGS Holdings UK
Sime Derby Oils Limited
Superbike Factory Group
Thriva Limited
Velcourt Group
Workdry International
Wynnstay Group Plc
Work highlights
- Acted for LDC on its investment in Talos360, a provider of human capital management (HCM) solutions.
- Advised Wynnstay Group Plc on its share acquisition of the Humphrey Feeds & Pullets.
- Supported Homebase on a range of commercial contracts including concessions, logistics and IT.
O'Connors
O'Connors is known for its work in advising legal businesses, insurance companies and investment funds on a range of commercial, corporate and regulatory matters. David Malone assists corporate clients, particularly start-ups and early stage businesses, with group restructures, reorganisations and disposals. He co-heads the practice with Michael Ainsworth who has specialist knowledge of IT contracting and data protection work. Mark O’Connor is experienced in business structuring, M&A and corporate finance issues.
Practice head(s):
David Malone; Michael Ainsworth
Other key lawyers:
Mark O’Connor
Testimonials
‘The firm provides outstanding service with a personal touch . With O’Connors you are provided with an outstanding service at proportionate fees.’
‘David Malone and Mark O’Connor are highly competent, but with an understanding of what clients want.’
‘We get direct access to the same partners over a period of years who know our business and strategy so no repeating ourselves. Fees always fair for quality delivered. The firm is strong on advice as well as just producing the transactional documents.’
Key clients
MAPD
Express Solicitors
Azelis
DTM Legal LLP
DTM Legal LLP is well regarded for its expertise in various areas of corporate and commercial law including alternative funding organisations, banks, investment companies, insurance and wealth management firms. The team is well-versed in corporate restructuring, M&A, IP and employee incentives matters. Practice head Edward Barnes specialises in joint ventures, branding and IP matters. Other key team members include Philip Whitehurst, who focuses on private equity work.
Practice head(s):
Edward Barnes
Other key lawyers:
Philip Whitehurst
Testimonials
‘Very good, no-nonsense advice and real commitment to help. They do not waste time.’
‘Philip Whitehurst is outstanding. I have used the big firms over the last 30 years but have never had the level and quality of service that Phil provides. Really good practical and commercial advice and a desire to do what is best for us. The banks and other corporates who we deal with often have bigger firms representing them but we are never at a disadvantage.’
‘Excellent engagement and a personal feel to their approach.’
Key clients
Evoke Creative Limited
Esterform Packaging Limited
Safeguard Europe Limited
Vast Visibility Limited
Heap & Partners Limited
Marine Specialised Technology Limited
Typhoo Tea Limited
Karl Vella Group Limited
Future Moto Limited
Staffords Limited
79th Group Limited
Cream T Pickups Limited
Tarka Spring Limited
Soundtesting Limited
JSM Company Group Limited
Brand Box International Limited
Evolution Costs Limited
Lewis Reed (WAV) Limited
Smylie Limited
Whole House Ventilation Services Limited
Formwork Direct International Ltd
Ellesey and Company (Lancs) Limited
Atom Scientific Limited
Airship Images Limited
Maes Dolau Caravan Park Limited
Cambria Caravan Park Limited
Esterpet Limited
Hood Seating Limited
Two Mills Asset Management Limited
Clancy Consulting Limited
Wayne Austin IFA Limited
L51 Developments Limited
Daulby Read Limited
LimeSky Investment Partners Limited
Charles Owen Group
Proteus Facades Limited
Napthens LLP
Napthens LLP acts for a range of clients - including owner-managed businesses, family companies, management teams and institutional investors - on various venture capital and private equity matters. Joining from Weightmans LLP, Kieran Donovan leads the team with support from transactional lawyer Gareth McIntegart.
Practice head(s):
Kieran Donovan
Other key lawyers:
Gareth McIntegart
Testimonials
‘This is a tight and effective team, very practical and focused on the client’s objectives and getting the deal over the line, but protecting their client’s interests.’
‘Kieran Donovan is exceptionally able, practical and an effective communicator who combines expertise with experience.’
Key clients
Applied Nutrition Limited
Shaw Energi Limited
Joloda Hydraroll Limited
River Capital Management Limited
Darkhorse Design Limited
Elitetele.com
Heritage Great Britain
Abbey Logistics Group Limited
The Sovini Group
Liverpool Media Academy Limited
OBG Pharmaceuticals Limited
GBM Digital Technologies Limited
Krol Corlett Construction Group
Sutcliffe Engineers
Alpha Cars (Liverpool) Limited
NPIF NW Equity LP
Maven Capital Partners UK
YFM Equity Partners
DSG Chartered Accountants
BWM Chartered Accountants
Cucumber Recruitment Limited
Opus Utility Solutions Limited
Work highlights
- Advised YFM Private Equity and the individual shareholders and management team led by group MD Kevin Still on the sale to US listed group CECO Environmental Corp.
- Advised the management team of BIL Group on the MBO backed by PHD Industrial Holdings Limited.
- Advised River Capital on its significant seven figure equity investment into fast growing North West fitness brand Built For Athletes.
Weightmans LLP
Weightmans LLP acts for a host of blue-chip corporate clients, who turn to the team for its experience in competition, data protection and information technology matters. Beyond these noted areas of expertise, the group’s broad offering encompasses private equity, M&A, and venture capital deals. Transactional lawyer Seray Kitchingman specialises in share and asset acquisitions. She co-heads the practice with Tom Trowhill, who handles data protection and intellectual property issues. Laurence Pritchard draws praise from clients for his commercial expertise, particularly in competition law. Corporate partner Gary Jones is also recommended. Michael Murphy made partner in May 2023.
Practice head(s):
Seray Kitchingman; Tom Trowhill
Other key lawyers:
Laurence Pritchard; Gary Jones; Michael Murphy
Testimonials
‘Gary Jones has a very fine brain and good commercial awareness.’
‘What stood out was their ability to keep things incredibly simple. As well their response was quick and timely. And they were able to cover off the most important issues, showing an instant and smart understanding.‘
‘Laurence Pritchard made working with Weightmans so pleasant and seamless.’
Key clients
S. Norton & Co. Limited
TuffX Processed Glass Limited
George Roberts (North West) Limited
MD Insurance Group
Ventcroft Limited
River Capital
Foresight Group LLP
Edge Hill Health Centre
Bridge Road Medical Centre
Edge Hill Health Centre
Shawton
Goonhilly
NHS Blood and Transplant
George Roberts UK
Recruitment People
Marpol Security
Gravity Smart Campus
Meade King Robinson
Sonoco
Side UK Limited
Lotus Bakeries
Melitta
Peel Ports
Silverbean
HSS Hire Services Group
APCER Life Services
Northside Truck & Van Hire
Acromas Insurance Company Limited
Parlingo
Work highlights
- Advised the Shareholders of MD Insurance Group in their sale to HSB Engineering Insurance Limited.
- Advised the Shareholders of Ventcroft Limited in their sale to NKT.
- Advised Side UK on a variety of voice talent and motion capture agreements with various actors in relation to a number of titles.