Corporate Law.

Corporate Lawyers & Company Law Advice.

Lanyon Bowdler’s Corporate and Commercial Team provides support to help businesses expand and develop strong routes to market whilst protecting them against potential risks.

It comprises solicitors with city and in-house experience, who have a genuine commitment to delivering clear, concise and commercially focused legal advice. In addition to its technical expertise, the team is also proud to offer an outstanding level of service to its clients, meeting their individual needs, objectives and deadlines.

The 2024 edition of The Legal 500 states that “underpinned by strong cross-office collaboration, Lanyon Bowdler’s ‘knowledge, advice, and expertise’ makes them a key port of call for a host of corporate clients. Shrewsbury-based Gráinne Walters is an ‘excellent’ adviser whose wide-ranging client base spans the consumer goods, education, care, and industrials sectors, to name a few. ‘Highly experienced and extremely knowledgeable’, Ludlow-based Edward Burrell’s recent workload includes both M&A and restructuring mandates, while Conwy-based Jennifer Edwards is noted for her significant experience in asset sales.”

The 2024 edition of Chambers UK recognised the team, saying: “Lanyon Bowdler offers expertise in a wide range of legal services. It has vast knowledge of such areas as acquisitions, sales, mergers, management buyouts and buy-ins, investments, reorganisations, and commercial contracts, among many others. The department has noted skills in sectors such as agriculture, education and renewable energy supply.” One client enthuses: “Their work is thorough and the key matters are understood in detail.” Other sources say, “Outstanding levels of client service from the partner level down.” and “Lanyon Bowdler are diligent, knowledgeable and take a professional approach to providing advice.”

The Corporate & Commercial law section of our website contains a wealth of information about the services we can provide for your business, under the following headings:

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Key Contact

Grainne Walters is a partner and head of the Corporate and Commercial Department; she specialises in corporate finance advisory and transactional work for private companies. She has particular expertise in mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, shareholders agreements, private equity, corporate reorganisations and growth companies.

Gráinne Walters
Gráinne Walters
Partner
Corporate Law | Business Contracts | Business Sales & Purchases

A brief summary of our Corporate & Commercial Legal Services

At Lanyon Bowdler, our specialist Corporate & Commercial Team take the time to understand clients’ commercial objectives so that they can provide practical, targeted and effective advice to businesses. We advise on all corporate and commercial legal aspects throughout the life cycle of a business, from incorporation, development and expansion, right through to exit. As corporate and commercial lawyers, we can service all your needs in these areas and provide you with flexible pricing options.

Corporate and commercial work dealt with by the department includes:

Sales and purchases of companies and businesses

Our experienced team provides comprehensive practical and strategic advice for those looking to buy or sell shares in a company. Whether you are buying or selling, it is vital you choose legal advisers who regularly deal with the wide-ranging business and personal considerations related to transactions of this nature. You will benefit from the experience and tailored approach of our team who will guide and support you through all aspects of the transaction.

Management buy-outs and buy-ins.

Although a management buy-out or buy-in is an exciting and lucrative opportunity, it can also be stressful and time-consuming.

Complex legal and financial issues need to be navigated whilst balancing the interests of all parties. Our team will help you put a clear strategy in place, so that things progress in an efficient manner and the underlying business does not suffer in the meantime.

Reorganisations, schemes and demergers

Our team has extensive experience of company restructuring in all its forms. We advise on solutions to meet your commercial aims, help minimise tax liabilities, by making use of the available reliefs, and prepare all necessary paperwork and can take care of required post completion filings.

Joint ventures

Whether you need legal guidance for setting up, managing, or exiting from a joint venture, we can help. Our team take a holistic approach to the advice offered. We provide a seamless service that builds a foundation for a partnership destined for success, adding value to the process throughout.

Company purchase of own shares

Although transferring shares is a relatively simple process, there is a rigid statutory framework to follow to complete a valid and legally binding buyback of shares. We have dealt with a substantial number of company share buybacks and are ideally placed to help you reach a satisfactory outcome.

We will explain how share buyback works in clear, easy to understand language. We will also execute the buyback and file all necessary documents, with the relevant authorities, whilst keeping you fully informed at every stage.

Private equity

Speak to our team at Lanyon Bowdler for specialist advice on all aspects of private equity and venture capital work, including start-up investment funding, growth capital, funding for MBOs, equity restructuring and institutional investments.

Shareholder agreements and articles of association

We provide expert legal assistance with shareholder agreements and other company documents, ensuring there is clarity about rights and obligations to minimise disputes in the future. We will draw on years of experience to help you decide what to include in your Shareholder Agreement and ensure it works properly alongside your Articles of Association.

Directors' duties and corporate governance

Directors are subject to a wide range of legal obligations set out in the Companies Act 2006, and failure to comply with these can be a criminal offence. The law relating to a director’s duties and responsibilities extends to many areas of the business including regulatory law, employment, dispute resolution and insolvency. Whatever issues you are facing as a director, for specialist legal advice from our corporate lawyers either call the number at the top of this page or use our online enquiry form.

Shareholder issues and disputes

Disagreements between shareholders can be complex and costly. Our team can provide the expert guidance you need to help settle such disputes effectively. No matter what size the business is, shareholder disputes can be very disruptive, particularly where there is a suspicion of wrongdoing, or a breach of duty. It is vital to act quickly and try to resolve the issues as swiftly and amicably as possible. For further information about resolving disputes with partners and shareholders contact the team today.

Business succession planning

Succession planning is the process of strategically planning the transition of management and ownership of your business upon retirement, death or incapacity, including the method by which the transfer will take place. For a company to survive long term, a clear and early focus on strategic succession planning is essential.

Succession planning is a complex process that crosses many areas of the business. We have a unique Corporate and Commercial Team that draws lawyers from a range of legal disciplines, dedicated to helping business owners find the right solutions at the right time.

Setting up companies, LLPs, businesses and partnerships and constitutions

When setting up a new business it is a common mistake to put ‘the legals’ low down on the list of priorities. However, there are many early decisions that would be better taken with the support and guidance of an experienced corporate and commercial lawyer. Some of the key things you’ll need to consider are, establishing the correct business structure, protecting intellectual property, contract terms, data and privacy regulations and partnership or shareholder agreements. Engaging a lawyer for these issues only when problems arise will not only make you more vulnerable but can be more expensive. For more advice on setting up a company or partnership, contact us today.

Restorations to the Register of Companies

If you are looking to restore a company that has been struck off, we will be pleased to advise on the restoration process, eligibility and the making of the necessary applications. A company may need to be restored for any number of reasons, including the retrieval of assets, recovery of debts, regaining shares, or transferring title held by the company. Whatever your circumstances are, our experienced Corporate Lawyers are well placed to advise you.

Striking offs and Dissolutions

If you are considering having a company or LLP removed from the Register, we can assist and advise on the conclusion of affairs and the making of an application for striking off or dissolution. We will make sure that unnecessary delays, costs and administrative burdens are avoided. It is always recommended that removing a company or LLP from the Register is done with advice from a specialist solicitor, as breaches of compliance can expose individuals to personal liabilities, including fines and criminal sanctions.

Partnerships and LLPs

A partnership agreement or Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) acts as a contract that clearly defines the ownership of capital and assets, and how profits and losses will be shared between parties. Our team will take the time to understand the objectives and challenges of all partners, and deliver legal advice that is tailored to your needs.

Share Scheme and Employee Incentives

For companies looking to attract and retain the best employees, shares schemes have long been considered an effective tool.

They can provide a very tax efficient mechanism to deliver value to key employees in order to foster engagement and loyalty through providing a ‘stake in the business’.

There are lots of considerations though, and some significant pitfalls that should be avoided. Our team of corporate and commercial lawyers will make sure your share incentive scheme is aligned with your commercial objectives and the proper protections are in place for every future eventuality.


We have worked with Lanyon Bowdler for more than six years and the team has always provided sound advice, helping us to stand our ground and achieve the best possible deal for our business.

- Dave Courteen - Marches Leisure
Knowledge

Case study.

Case Study
Holmer Park, Herefordshire

Marches Leisure (The Shrewsbury Club) and Holmer Park Spa and Health Club (Herefordshire)

Corporate and commercial legal advice regarding business acquisitions....
Edward Burrell • 15 Dec 2023

Our Corporate Law expertise

Put simply, we understand the important relationship between the legal and commercial aspects of a business.

The experience and knowledge of Lanyon Bowdler’s commercial law specialists is first rate, and having them onside to shoulder your legal burden is incredibly liberating, leaving you free to get on with making your business a success.

Podcast - Future Planning For Business Partnerships

In this episode you’ll hear from Emma Deering and Jennifer Edwards who are discussing succession planning for businesses, particularly partnerships. They offer insight and explain about wills, partnership agreements and Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA).

The Legal 500

The Legal 500 has for many years recommended Lanyon Bowdler for corporate and commercial services in the West Midlands and the department has been recognised again in the 2024 edition, stating: ‘Underpinned by strong cross-office collaboration, Lanyon Bowdler’s ‘knowledge, advice, and expertise’ makes them a key port of call for a host of corporate clients.’

Testimonials

‘The service provided by Lanyon Bowdler is excellent. Their team are knowledgeable and friendly, and produce work in a timely manner.’

‘Creative, responsive, knowledgeable, experienced, and a great help in negotiations. Focused on the big picture rather than getting bogged down in legal nuances.’

‘London firm quality in a regional practice.’

‘Lanyon Bowdler acted to manage and oversee the legal elements of the management buyout of our company. Their knowledge, advice, and expertise made the sale successful and time efficient. They dealt with a vast amount of legal paper work and jargon quickly and efficiently, using all their resources.’

 

Chambers UK

The 2024 edition of Chambers UK recognises the team, saying ‘Lanyon Bowdler offers expertise in a wide range of legal services. It has vast knowledge of such areas as acquisitions, sales, mergers, management buyouts and buy-ins, investments, reorganisations, and commercial contracts, among many others. The department has noted skills in sectors such as agriculture, education and renewable energy supply.’

Strengths

“Their work is thorough and the key matters are understood in detail.”

“Outstanding levels of client service from the partner level down.”

“Lanyon Bowdler are diligent, knowledgeable and take a professional approach to providing advice.”

Testimonials

What our clients say.

Got the advice I needed to help me with my business, always available when needed.

Duncan
via ReviewSolicitors

Our company needed some advice quite urgently and Lanyon Bowdler dealt with everything quickly and efficiently.

Debbie
via ReviewSolicitors

Since dealing with Lanyon Bowdler they have been diligent, efficient and at all times very helpful along with being structured in dealing with matters, fees and clarity on all levels. Thank you.

Michael
via ReviewSolicitors

I was clearly informed of progress step by step. The service you provided was very good.

Peter Weston
Shrewsbury

All work carried out effectively and efficiently.

Hubert Jones
via ReviewSolicitors

Smooth and efficient service from very professional firm.

Tim
via ReviewSolicitors

An excellent service with solicitors that you can talk to and who give you a clear understanding of all necessary legal implications and interpretations.

Eric
via ReviewSolicitors

From start to finish we had excellent service. Friendly, approachable and professional.

Carl Gittins
via ReviewSolicitors

Very clear, concise advice and guidance, easy to understand.

Ian Jamieson
Telford

Good service provided throughout with clear communication throughout with all options explored.

Lee

I can thoroughly recommend the highly professional and supportive service received over the last few months.

Heather
via ReviewSolicitors

Responsive, supportive, approachable, clear and empathetic.

Lisa Thacker

Professional and prompt communication. Supportive and client focused.

Lisa Thacker
Jennifer M Whittall Ltd

Whenever I have had need to contact Lanyon Bowdler I have always received a fast, concise and friendly response.

Lee Mortimer
UK Case Management

Definitely would use Lanyon Bowdler again if I need the use of a solicitor.

Mark Bowkett
via ReviewSolicitors

Smooth and efficient service from very professional firm.

Tim
via ReviewSolicitors

We were particularly impressed with the quality of work, the speed and excellent communication.

Allenby Douglas Ltd
Oswestry

Greatly exceeded my expectations!

Worxinfo Limited
Coventry

Very friendly and approachable. Very good advice

Ivor Brown
via ReviewSolicitors

Great Service; Lanyon Bowdler were excellent from the outset. Straightforward and easy process. I just sat back and waited.

Paul Rowe
via ReviewSolicitors

Everything has been professional, efficient and courteous throughout and we are very pleased, both with the service and with the eventual outcome of our case. Everything was first class and exceeded our expectations. Thank you again for providing such splendid service. It is really appreciated.

Mr N J & Dr S J Browne
Llanfyllin

Contact our Corporate Law Solicitors

Give us a call or complete our online enquiry form, to see how our Company Law Solicitors can help. We have offices in Shrewsbury, Telford, Oswestry, Ludlow, Hereford, Bromyard and Conwy, where our friendly, knowledgeable staff will be happy to welcome you for an initial chat about your requirements.

We have one of the most well recognised teams of business lawyers in Shropshire, Herefordshire, Mid and North Wales, Birmingham and the Midlands. We offer a wide range of pricing options including fixed fees and service level guarantees.

We work with businesses across Shropshire, Cheshire, Herefordshire, The Marches, Mid & North Wales, Birmingham, and the Midlands. As a leading national corporate law firm, we can represent your interests wherever you are in England or Wales.

As a leading law firm in Wales, we regularly act for clients on all manner of corporate law issues. We work closely with companies at all stages of the business lifecycle, whether you are in the early stages, scaling up, or exiting. We can represent you wherever you live in England or Wales.

For more advice about how we can help you please call us or use the online enquiry form and someone will get in touch with you.

Our people

Meet the team.

Gráinne Walters
Gráinne Walters
Partner
Corporate Law | Business Contracts | Business Sales & Purchases
David Ashcroft
David Ashcroft
Consultant
Corporate Law | Business Contracts | Business Sales & Purchases | Leisure & Tourism
Edward Burrell
Edward Burrell
Partner
Corporate Law | Business Contracts | Business Sales & Purchases | Leisure & Tourism | Education
Nicholas Bridgewater
Nicholas Bridgewater
Trainee Solicitor
Corporate Law
Cecilia Wong
Cecilia Wong
Solicitor
Corporate Law | Business Contracts | Business Sales & Purchases
Abi Croft
Abi Croft
Solicitor
Corporate Law | Business Contracts | Business Sales & Purchases
Jennifer Edwards
Jennifer Edwards
Associate Solicitor
Corporate Law | Business Contracts | Business Sales & Purchases
Zoe Roberts
Zoe Roberts
Associate Solicitor
Business Contracts | Business Sales & Purchases | Corporate Law
Knowledge

Case studies.

Case Study
Paddle boarding in North Wales

Boltholes and Hideaways

We would heartily recommend Lanyon Bowdler to any business as the team structure enables the delivery of a comprehensive...
Juana Eastwood • 20 Mar 2024
Case Study
Oldfields Cider barrels

Oldfields Cider

We found the team to be exceptionally knowledgeable and efficient in resolving any problems quickly....
Edward Burrell • 19 Jan 2024
Case Study
Holmer Park, Herefordshire

Marches Leisure (The Shrewsbury Club) and Holmer Park Spa and Health Club (Herefordshire)

Corporate and commercial legal advice regarding business acquisitions....
Edward Burrell • 15 Dec 2023
Knowledge

Latest knowledge.

Case Study
Paddle boarding in North Wales

Boltholes and Hideaways

We would heartily recommend Lanyon Bowdler to any business as the team structure enables the delivery of a comprehensive...
Juana Eastwood • 20 Mar 2024
Case Study
Oldfields Cider barrels

Oldfields Cider

We found the team to be exceptionally knowledgeable and efficient in resolving any problems quickly....
Edward Burrell • 19 Jan 2024
Case Study
Holmer Park, Herefordshire

Marches Leisure (The Shrewsbury Club) and Holmer Park Spa and Health Club (Herefordshire)

Corporate and commercial legal advice regarding business acquisitions....
Edward Burrell • 15 Dec 2023
Podcast icon Podcast

Starting a Business with Entrepreneur Ellie Beavan (Winsbury Dairy)

About setting up a business in the food industry, selling farm fresh pasteurised milk to shops, pubs and restaurants, an...
Published • 18 Sep 2023
Blog

Loan Agreements – Do I need Financial Conduct Authority Approval to Make a Loan to a Friend or Family Member?

It is very common for informal loans to be made between family members and friends but whilst the arrangement might...
Abi Croft • 01 Sep 2023
Blog

Top Tips For New Businesses

You have had a brilliant idea, the business plan is agreed and now you’re ready to start the business. Here are a f...
Zoe Roberts • 04 Jul 2023
Podcast icon Podcast

The Importance of Shareholders Agreements – Grainne Walters

We explain the differences between directors and shareholders, and how a shareholders agreement can detail how a shareho...
Published • 26 Jun 2023
Blog

Why Do I Need Written Contract Terms With My Customers And Suppliers?

There is a phrase known as ‘over-lawyering’ and many businesses may feel that they have trusted re...
Zoe Roberts • 23 Jun 2023
Blog

Q&A: Focus on Warranty and Indemnity Insurance for SMEs

Warranty and Indemnity Insurance, commonly referred to as W&I insurance, is often used in private mergers and a...
Zoe Roberts • 09 Mar 2022
Blog

Mistaken Filings at Companies House

Forgetting to file a form on time, including the wrong number in your calculations or simply misspelling a company’...
Gráinne Walters • 10 Jan 2022
Blog

Parental Responsibility Update

The removal of parental responsibility is the subject of many client enquiries. There are a large number of cases w...
Abi Croft • 22 Jul 2021
Accreditations

Our awards and accolades.

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