Your industry, our expertise
Every client is different and so are their legal needs. That’s why we take the time to understand your world, offering sector-specific advice that really fits.
From start-ups, to landowners, we’re here to support you with practical, straightforward legal expertise.
In-Depth Knowledge.
Sector by Sector.
Our sector knowledge runs deep, built over decades of real-world experience and long-standing client relationships. Recognised as leaders in the region, we deliver specialist advice across Durham, the North East and beyond.
Our Commercial Property, Corporate and Commercial, Employment Law, Private Client and Dispute Resolution teams work closely together, combining their knowledge to offer practical legal support that reflects your goals and your sector. Whether we’re guiding a manufacturing client through M&A or helping farming families plan for the next generation, we bring together the right people, at the right time.
We understand that rural life is about more than just business, it’s about family, legacy, and a deep connection to the land.
Our Agriculture and Rural team take a practical, down-to-earth approach, offering straightforward legal advice shaped by years of real-world experience.
Whether you’re restructuring your farm business, selling land, diversifying, or preparing for succession, we’re here to help. From stewardship schemes and agricultural tenancies to disputes and land sales, we speak your language – and we know how to get things done.
We don’t just draft documents, we help you see the bigger picture.
Our lawyers provide strategic advice on covenant structures, risk management, and long-term financing strategy. We help clients build bankable structures that support operational agility and sustained growth.
Digital innovation is about more than just code – it’s about people, progress, and building the future.
Our Digital and Technology team combines legal expertise with a deep understanding of the fast-moving tech landscape. We offer clear, commercially focused advice that helps you navigate complexity and unlock opportunity.
Whether you’re scaling a startup, negotiating software contracts, managing data compliance, or investing in emerging technologies, we’re here to support you. From intellectual property and cybersecurity to AI regulation and digital transformation, we speak your language – and we know how to help you move forward.
Trusted legal partner for registered providers with advice that makes a difference.
We’ve worked with some of the UK’s leading social housing providers for years, guiding them through everything from mergers and governance reviews to development schemes and housing disputes. We understand the sector inside-out and deliver advice that helps clients stay focused on what matters most: delivering affordable, quality homes and building stronger communities.
The Team
Meet our experts
We pride ourselves on being trusted experts in the legal field. We are not like other law firms, we’re agile, approachable, jargon-free, and genuinely committed to delivering the best possible legal solutions to our clients.
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Nahima Islam
Paralegal
Dispute Resolution
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Martyn Tennant
Partner and Head of Corporate and Commercial
Corporate and Commercial
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Matt Ray
Managing Associate
Corporate and Commercial
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Matt Dobson
IT Manager
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Ellie Straughan
Solicitor
Family Law
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Sara Stammers
Marketing Executive
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David Low
Partner
Dispute Resolution
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Rebecca Logue
Managing Associate
Corporate and Commercial
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Laura Murphy TEP
Head of Private Client & Senior Managing Associate
Private Client
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Helen Broadhead
Head of Finance
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Isabella Lake
Paralegal
Dispute Resolution
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Adam McWilliams
Solicitor
Dispute Resolution
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Grace Ridsdale
Solicitor
Commercial Property
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Niamh Wilson
Solicitor
Family Law
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Sophie Ayre
Associate Solicitor
Corporate and Commercial
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Lyndsey Pitt
Head of People & Culture
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Danielle Cruickshank
Paralegal
Private Client
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Amy Pyman TEP
Managing Associate
Private Client
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Alex Siddle
Solicitor
Corporate and Commercial
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Mary Feather
Associate Solicitor
Commercial Property
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Siân Thurkettle
Trainee Solicitor
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Charlotte Cassell
Trainee Solicitor
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Simon Robinson
Consultant
Commercial Property
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Chris Ross
Partner
Commercial Property
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Wayne Christie
Head of Operations & Innovation
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Victoria Walton
Partner and Head of Commercial Property
Commercial Property
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Kaye Cunningham
Associate Solicitor
Dispute Resolution
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Diane Hall
Managing Associate
Commercial Property
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Craig Feeney
Solicitor
Corporate and Commercial
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Craig Foot
Head of Residential Conveyancing & Senior Managing Associate
Conveyancing
News & Insights
Insight
Incentivising Employees through Tax-efficient Schemes and the Importance of avoiding ‘Benefits in Kind’
In the current economic climate, it is increasingly common for owner-managed businesses to incentivise key employees by offering equity. This approach can play a vital role in recruitment, retention and succession planning, while also ensuring that employees’ interests are aligned with those of the shareholders. When structured correctly, equity-based incentives can be highly effective in […]
Read moreNews
A new chapter for Swinburne Maddison as Managing Partner succession announced
One of the North East’s leading law firms, Swinburne Maddison LLP, has announced that Managing Partner Jonathan Moreland will retire from the role and firm on 31st December 2026, concluding a career spanning 35 years with the firm. He will be succeeded by Victoria Walton, currently Partner and Head of Commercial Property, who will take up […]
Read moreNews
Swinburne Maddison advises on launch of Vallum Wealth, independent wealth management consultancy
Swinburne Maddison LLP has advised on the establishment of Vallum Wealth, an independent consultancy created to support investors in understanding and navigating the wealth management market. Founded by Jonathan Brown, Vallum Wealth draws on more than 40 years of senior experience in investment and wealth management, including leadership roles at UBS, established to support investors […]
Read more
Careers at Swinburne Maddison
Bright futures built together.
Ok, so you’ve come this far where could the next step take you?
We’re always on the lookout for great people to join our team but we also want to make sure we are the right fit for each other.
Here, your career is more than a job—it’s a journey. From day one, you’ll feel supported to grow, develop your skills, and thrive alongside a team that values collaboration and care. Whether you’re a legal eagle or a support extraordinaire, we focus on helping you succeed in an environment where you truly belong. Let’s achieve great things together.