
Strategic business lifecycle expertise.
Helping businesses thrive from start-up to scale-up and beyond, we provide tailored advice across the full business lifecycle. Whatever the stage, our team delivers solutions that align with your ambitions. And that’s reassuring to know.

Corporate Law
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Corporate brochureEvery business is unique, and so is the journey it takes. At Swinburne Maddison, our Corporate team understands the entire business lifecycle—from the spark of a start-up idea to scaling operations through investment, acquisition, or organic growth. We take the time to dig into what you really need, not just what you think you want, delivering solutions that drive success at every stage.
Our strategy starts with the end in mind. From the moment you engage with us, we focus on defining what success looks like for you and implementing a no-nonsense plan to achieve it.
With 12 lawyers, including three partners recognised as leading professionals in the North East, our team is trusted to handle high-stakes matters. From mergers and acquisitions to corporate governance and finance, we’ve built a reputation as problem solvers who simplify complexity and guide you through opportunities and challenges alike.
We service clients across a wide array of sectors, including manufacturing, education, technology, hospitality, engineering, and transport, offering bespoke legal advice tailored to your industry. While based in Durham, our reach extends far beyond the North East, with experience in cross-border transactions and international matters.
Our accolades speak for themselves. Named as a Top-tier firm in The Legal 500 for eight consecutive years and are ranked in the top 10 for M&A work in the North East by Experian Market IQ, we have a proven track record of supporting clients with everything from business startups to joint ventures and partnerships.
At Swinburne Maddison, we’re not just here to advise; we’re here to be part of your journey. Whether you’re starting up, scaling up, or stepping into a new chapter, you’ll find trusted partners in our team.
We’re experts in our field.


“The team is down to earth, but very knowledgeable. They can communicate complex ideas to clients in a simple manner.”
The Legal 500 UK
Here to help your business thrive.
Whether you’re starting, growing, or evolving, we’re by your side with practical advice and strategic solutions.

Big deals demand big thinking. Whether you’re buying, selling, or restructuring, we take care of the details—due diligence, contract drafting, regulatory compliance—so your transaction runs smoothly.
From management buyouts to corporate finance, whether it’s an asset or a shared deal, we know how to get things done. We anticipate risks before they arise, negotiate hard where it matters, and make sure you get the best outcome.
M&A transactions are more than just paperwork—it’s about securing your future. And that’s exactly what we help you do.
Starting a business is exciting—full of big ideas and even bigger possibilities. But the legal side? That’s where things can get tricky. We make sure you get it right from the start, helping you choose the right structure—be a company, a partnership, or an LLP.
A solid foundation is everything. That’s why we draft clear, watertight agreements, keep you compliant, and offer strategic advice tailored to your goals. We think ahead, so you don’t have to worry about what’s around the corner.
With us by your side, you can focus on growing your business while we handle the legal complexities.
No business stands still. As you grow, the legal landscape shifts, bringing new challenges—from protecting confidential information to managing governance, partnerships, and future exits.
We help you navigate every stage, ensuring contracts, governance structures, and strategic plans are built to last. Thinking about a joint venture? Preparing for a sale? We’ve got you covered.
A business needs to evolve. We make sure you’re always one step ahead, protected, and ready for whatever comes next.
As your company evolves, so should its structure. Whether you’re issuing new shares or bringing in outside investment to reshape ownership, we ensure everything is legally sound and commercially smart.
From investment agreements to share buybacks and capital reductions, we cut through the complexity to help you make the right moves. Clear advice, sharp thinking, and no unnecessary jargon—just what you need to keep your business on the right track.
Because restructuring isn’t just about change—it’s about building a stronger future.
Big deals. Tight deadlines. Critical decisions. We help borrowers and lenders, whether banks, businesses, or individuals navigate high-value transactions with confidence.
We’ve advised on multi-million-pound purchases, complex security documents, and refinancing deals. During the pandemic, we completed over £75m in CBILS transactions for Atom bank—delivering when it mattered most.
We also work with angel investors and fund managers to secure financing, providing commercially focussed legal solutions that make things happen. Whatever the challenge, we’re ready to get the deal done.
Making a difference starts with strong foundations. Setting up and running a charity isn’t just about goodwill—it’s about getting the legal structure right, staying compliant, and ensuring long-term success.
We help charities navigate everything from formation and governance to regulatory obligations and funding agreements. Whether you’re drafting a constitution, structuring your board, or managing compliance, we make sure you’re protected and set up for success.
With us handling the legal side, you can focus on what really matters—making an impact.
Business services
Your commercial interests protected with confidence.
We provide clear, strategic guidance to safeguard your commercial assets and keep your business moving forward.