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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Hope Gallant
Solicitor
Wills, Trust & Probate
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Rebecca Tinsley
Trainee Solicitor
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Niamh Wilson
Solicitor
Family Law
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Ellie Straughan
Solicitor
Family Law
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Alex Wilby
Partner
Corporate and Commercial
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Sophie Ayre
Associate Solicitor
Corporate and Commercial
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Jonathan Moreland
Managing Partner
Dispute Resolution
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Victoria Walton
Partner and Head of Commercial Property
Commercial Property
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Luke Dale
Paralegal
Residential Property
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Grace Ridsdale
Solicitor
Commercial Property
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Grace Robinson
CILEx Paralegal
Commercial Property
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Zoe Limon
Solicitor
Commercial Property
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Gillian Moir
Partner
Commercial Property
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Martyn Tennant
Partner and Head of Corporate and Commercial
Corporate and Commercial
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Kate Stephenson
Partner
Commercial Property
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Olivia Fisher
Trainee Solicitor
Dispute Resolution
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Sharney Randhawa
Senior Managing Associate
Employment Law
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Gemma Wilkinson
Head of Legal Compliance
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Chris Ross
Partner
Commercial Property
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Nahima Islam
Paralegal
Dispute Resolution
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Diane Hall
Managing Associate
Commercial Property
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Victoria Dineen
CILEx Chartered Legal Executive
Commercial Property
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Charlotte Excell
Senior Managing Associate
Commercial Property
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Kelly Jefferson
Associate – CILEx Lawyer
Dispute Resolution
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Alex Siddle
Solicitor
Corporate and Commercial
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Kaye Cunningham
Associate Solicitor
Dispute Resolution
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Craig Malarkey
Partner
Corporate and Commercial
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Siân Thurkettle
Trainee Solicitor
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Adam McWilliams
Solicitor
Dispute Resolution
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Laura Duff
Conveyancing Executive
Residential Property
News & Insights
Insight
When Are Oral Agreements Legally Binding? Lessons from Leddington v Sandercock
In Leddington and another v Sandercock and another [2026] EWHC 938 (Ch), the Chancery Division dismissed a claim for over £333,000 relating to an alleged oral agreement between the parties. The case highlights a key issue in contract law, that although oral agreements (sometimes referred to as “gentlemen’s agreements”) can be legally binding, they must […]
Read moreInsight
Renters’ Rights Act. Key Changes Landlords Must Act on Before 31 May 2026
The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 represents one of the most significant reforms to the private rental sector in recent years. It strengthens tenant protections while placing greater responsibility on private landlords. Mandatory Requirement for Renters’ Rights Act Information Sheet 2026 By 31 May 2026, landlords must provide tenants with the Renters’ Rights Act Information Sheet […]
Read moreInsight
Major Changes Ahead for Consumer Subscription Contracts – What Businesses Need to Know
The UK Government has confirmed significant reforms to the rules governing consumer subscription contracts. These changes are expected to be introduced in spring 2027, through secondary legislation under the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024 (DMCCA), following the conclusion of the Department for Business and Trade’s consultation. Unlike the current rules, which were never […]
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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.