Irwin Mitchell is home to a well-experienced corporate practice that is praised by clients for its ‘exceptional legal prowess.’  The group is adept at handling domestic and cross-border M&A, disposals, and refinancing, as well as investments, shareholders’ agreements, and regulatory compliance for an expanding client roster which consists of businesses from the aviation, consumer, and fintech sectors. Heading up the department is Bryan Bletso, who specialises in private, multi-jurisdictional transactions. Debbie Serota is another key practitioner in the team, and concentrates on joint ventures, M&A, and shareholders’ agreements. On the buyout front, Geraint Lloyd is the name to note, while Ute Mueller is the go-to for Anglo-German deals.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Ben was superb. Nothing was ever a problem, and he had the perfect friendly and professional balance.’

  • ‘The Irwin Mitchell team demonstrated exceptional legal prowess throughout our recent deal. Their profound knowledge of the subject matter was evident at every turn, proving to be a significant asset. They consistently worked collaboratively with us, always prioritising and effectively achieving our client's aims.'

  • We were particularly impressed by their highly efficient use of available technology, which streamlined processes and contributed to a smooth transaction. Beyond their professional capabilities, the team were an incredibly friendly and approachable group of individuals, making a complex process far more manageable and enjoyable. We would unreservedly recommend Irwin Mitchell.’

  • ‘We worked with Debbie Serota, Ben Jones, and Ben Gale throughout the process. Their collective expertise and individual contributions were exceptional throughout our recent deal. Debbie, Ben, and Ben brought a huge amount of knowledge to the table, which was evident in every aspect of the transaction. They worked incredibly collaboratively, always focusing on and successfully achieving our client's aims. Debbie, Ben, and Ben were an incredibly friendly and approachable group, making a complex and demanding period significantly more manageable. Their dedication and collegiality truly made a difference, and we would not hesitate to work with them again.’

  • ‘Offers Magic Circle-level quality, but with more accessible partners and a greater focus on building long-term relationships. Their international advice led by Bryan Bletso is great as they can always find solutions for cross boarder issues. The team often works cross-practice to provide full-service solutions for complex client issues.’

  • ‘Ben Gale is very personable and always goes the extra mile for clients. He has an ability to distil complex legal issues into actionable advice, tailored precisely to the client’s appetite for risk. Clients trust him implicitly, not just for his legal acumen but for his strategic counsel—he consistently adds value beyond the legal brief.’

  • ‘We have one stand out individual - Ute Mueller - she is the reason we use the firm. In terms of what makes Ute stand out - firstly trust, we trust her to look after us and position us best from a risk perspective. Secondly her incredible professional capability - she is equally commercial and detailed, friendly yet delivers results. As a CEO I don't want to do a transaction without Ute by my side.’

  • ‘The corporate team is responsive, efficient, and highly competent. It is well skilled in Tech M&A which is my reason for using the firm.’

Key clients

  • ManyPets Limited
  • 2 Excel (Holdings) Limited
  • The individual shareholders of 2 Excel (Holdings) Limited
  • The shareholders of 2 Excel Engineering Limited
  • The shareholders of Fleet and Commercial Limited
  • Hambledon Vineyard plc
  • PE487 Limited
  • TH Geyer Ingredients GmbH
  • Culuru Consulting Ltd
  • International Broadcasting Convention
  • Emro Investments Ltd
  • The shareholders of Ashbury Global
  • The shareholders of Click Competitions Ltd
  • SureComp Business Solutions Limited

Work highlights

Advised 2 Excel (Holdings) Ltd and 2 Excel Engineering Limited on a significant refinancing transaction and disposal of minority interest to Crestline Inc.
Advised the selling shareholders of a majority stake in Ashbury Global to Normec Group.
Advised the shareholders of Click Competitions Ltd on the sale to Bestof the Best Ltd.

Practice head

Bryan Bletso

Other key lawyers

Debbie Serota; Ute Mueller; Ben Gale; Ben Jones; Christian Vale