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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Adam McWilliams
Solicitor
Dispute Resolution
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Catherine Lowther
Head of Family
Family Law
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Grace Ridsdale
Solicitor
Commercial Property
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Ellie Straughan
Solicitor
Family Law
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Jenna Keir-Kendrew
Managing Associate
Dispute Resolution
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Kate Stephenson
Partner
Commercial Property
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James Curran
Managing Associate
Dispute Resolution
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Abigail Zuk
Senior Managing Associate
Dispute Resolution
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Lyndsey Pitt
Head of People & Culture
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Sharney Randhawa
Senior Managing Associate
Employment Law
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Ashley Patterson
Solicitor
Corporate and Commercial
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Max Atkinson
Solicitor
Dispute Resolution
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Caroline Smith
Marketing Director
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Charlotte Excell
Senior Managing Associate
Commercial Property
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Zoe Limon
Solicitor
Commercial Property
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Craig Malarkey
Partner
Corporate and Commercial
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Grace Robinson
CILEx Paralegal
Commercial Property
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Charlotte Cassell
Trainee Solicitor
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Amy Pyman TEP
Managing Associate
Wills, Trust & Probate
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Owen Cox
Solicitor
Residential Property
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Laura Murphy TEP
Head of Wills, Trusts & Probate
Wills, Trust & Probate
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Sophie Ayre
Associate Solicitor
Corporate and Commercial
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David Low
Partner
Dispute Resolution
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Alex Wilby
Partner
Corporate and Commercial
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Kelly Jefferson
Associate – CILEx Lawyer
Dispute Resolution
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Niamh Wilson
Solicitor
Family Law
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Claire Wilson
Associate Solicitor
Dispute Resolution
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Laura Duff
Conveyancing Executive
Residential Property
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Mary Feather
Associate Solicitor
Commercial Property
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Jessica Leslie
Solicitor
Employment Law
News & Insights
Insight
Landlords Must Act by 31 July 2026 – Transitional Deadline for Older Section 8 and Section 21 Notices
Have you served a Section 8 or Section 21 Notice on a tenant before 1 May 2026? If so, you should urgently review your position. Under the transitional provisions of the Renters’ Rights Act 2025, landlords relying on notices served before 1 May 2026 must ensure possession proceedings are issued by 31 July 2026. This […]
Read moreInsight
Lease Extension for Leasehold Houses
If you own a leasehold house, you may be considering your options as the lease term reduces. Unlike flats, leasehold houses are governed by different legislation, which can impact your rights and the long-term value of your property. This guide breaks down how lease extensions for houses work, who qualifies, and whether extending your lease […]
Read moreInsight
AI in commercial contracts. The legal risks business owners still underestimate
Artificial intelligence is increasingly being integrated into the way businesses manage their commercial contracts. From drafting and review to document management, AI tools offer clear advantages in terms of speed, efficiency and cost. However, in adopting these technologies, many organisations are overlooking a more critical consideration – whether the contracts being produced continue to protect […]
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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.