Case Study: Legal Sector Corporate Finance specialists support disposal of Lupton Fawcett to Flint Bishop
Yorkshire-based Lupton Fawcett is a well-established, full-service law firm with significant presence across Leeds, Sheffield, and York. With c. £8m fee income and around 150 people, it provides comprehensive services covering commercial, litigation, property, family, and private client work. Known for its quality advice, the firm holds multiple leading accreditations and has received numerous awards, including high rankings in Chambers UK and Legal 500.
How we helped
Legal Sector Partner Andy Poole and his team supported Lupton Fawcett by undertaking a confidential marketing process that resulted in the sale of the business to fast-growing law firm, Flint Bishop.
The team explored the legal sector market, suggesting potentially suitable firms before making introductions and working with our client to broker an EBITDA multiple-based deal.
The team assisted with the due diligence process, the regulatory aspects and structure of the deal, then advised and negotiated on the commercial matters and advised on inclusions in the legal documents. Working closely with Lupton Fawcett’s legal advisers, Armstrong Watson project-managed the deal to completion.
Andy Poole said: “Our main driver was to look after the people of Lupton Fawcett and provide the best structure of a deal to protect their positions. They and we were pleased with the final outcome, which also provides excellent opportunities for the buyer”.
Results
Lupton Fawcett is now part of Flint Bishop, which has allowed Flint Bishop to expand geographically and benefit from synergies, having already moved into Leeds via their acquisition of the banking, finance and recoveries team of Walker Morris.
The Lupton Fawcett people can continue to provide excellent quality advice to their clients under the new brand.
James Richardson, Managing Partner at Lupton Fawcett, said: “Joining Flint Bishop represents an exciting new chapter for both our people and our clients. The cultural alignment and shared commitment to excellence made this a natural fit.”
In a thank you to Armstrong Watson, he added: “Andy and his team provided excellent support and drive throughout a very challenging commercial process. It is hard to imagine anyone could have steered the negotiations better.”
Andy Poole added: “I’m thrilled to reach completion on a complex deal that should work well for all parties, and I wish everybody involved every success in the future”.
