Partner, Corporate and Commercial
James Whitfield
Company transactions and commercial contracts
James advises owner-managed businesses and their directors on the legal side of running and growing a company. His work covers buying and selling businesses, investment, shareholder arrangements and the day-to-day contracts that keep a business trading.
He also works with owners who are planning for the future, helping them think through how the business might pass to family, managers or a buyer, often alongside colleagues in our private client team.
Areas of expertise
- Buying and selling businesses
- Shareholders’ agreements
- Terms and conditions of business
- Supply and distribution agreements
- Company reorganisations
- Management buyouts
- Succession planning for owners
Working with James
James tries to understand the commercial aims first and the legal documents second. He keeps advice focused on the points that matter to the deal, flags risks early, and explains the trade-offs so clients can make their own decisions. Costs and timescales are discussed at the outset, and he keeps clients updated as things move.
James is a season ticket holder at St James’ Park and a reluctant but regular parkrunner.
Related services
- 01Corporate and commercialPractical advice on company structures, shareholder arrangements, commercial contracts and buying or selling businesses, sized to the deal.
- 02Business succession planningJoined-up planning for business owners on exits, handovers, shareholder protection and personal estate arrangements, in good time.
Articles by James
Make an enquiry
Speak to James or the team.
Tell us briefly what has happened and what you would like to achieve. There is no obligation, and we will be straightforward about whether we are the right people to help.
We read your enquiry
A member of the relevant team reviews it, usually within one working day.
A short, no-obligation call
We ask a few questions, explain how we could help and outline the likely next steps.
Clear terms before any work
If you would like to go ahead, we confirm the scope, who will handle it and the costs in writing.