Handling a range of corporate transactions, spanning from IPOs to early-stage investment work, Shakespeare Martineau LLP regularly acts for entrepreneurs, large corporates, and multinationals. Leading the Birmingham practice, Michael Stace has a strong track record in cross-border M&A and joint venture arrangements, while Keith Spedding focuses on public company transactions. Jody Webb advises founders and private equity investors, and Peter Mayhew has vast knowledge in VCT investments. Jennie Davis is also recommended. Kavita Patel retired as partner in June 2024.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘We really value the experience and expertise of many of the team. They are our go-to partner for virtually all legal matters. Its growth trajectory has been impressive over the years, and this means that they can pretty much cover all bases across the UK.’
‘Keith Spedding is peerless in the M&A space and an excellent person for us to deal with as point of contact for all other matters.'
- 'Jennie Davis, who works with Keith, has gained huge experience over the last few years and she is now super capable and effective when working with us also.’
- 'In-depth knowledge of the VCT sector and strong commercial experience.''Keith is one of the most approachable lawyers I’ve had the pleasure of working with throughout my career. He provides practical, insightful advice, combining both legal expertise and market knowledge. As a small PLC, we frequently turn to Keith for guidance on capital market matters, and his support has been invaluable. Over the past few years, he has helped us navigate two fundraises and two asset sales, which would not have been possible without his expertise and dedication.'
Key clients
- Rosslyn Data Technologies PLC
- Zentra Group PLC
- Avingtrans PLC
- Cizzle Biotechnology PLC
- Nuformix PLC
- Oscillate PLC
- Time to Act PLC
- BGF Investments LP – Business Growth Fund
- Foresight Group LLP
- Mobeus Income & Growth VCT plc, Mobeus Income & Growth 2 VCT plc, Mobeus Income & Growth 4 VCT plc and The Income & Growth VCT plc
- Mercia Ventures
- Blackfinch Investments Limited
- The shareholders of Pettits Limited
- Easyairconditioning Group Limited
- Palletforce Limited
- Solid State Plc
- The Mission Group Plc
- Celebrus Technologies PLC
- Averon Park Limited
- Ridge and Partners
Work highlights
Acting for Time to Act PLC on its admission to Aquis Growth market.
Acted for Averon Park Limited, the underlying investee company of the Foresight Inheritance Tax Fund, on a rights issue on a 2:1 basis to raise up to £2.95 billion.
Acting for Robert Kirtland and Mark Rusher in connection with the investment by Tenzing-backed Gravita Group into Critchleys LLP.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Michael Stace
Other key lawyers
Keith Spedding; Kavita Patel; Jody Webb; Peter Mayhew; Jennie Davis