Related areas


Lawrence Graham LLP

We are Lawrence Graham (LG) – a firm of business lawyers advising clients from around the world.

We have been established for over 280 years and remain one of the world's most respected, successful and innovative firms.

Founded originally in London, which is where our headquarters remain, we now have offices in Dubai, Monaco and Moscow.

Our clients come from over 60 countries across six continents with almost half our revenue coming from outside the UK. These clients are crucial to our success. Our approach is to get deep inside their businesses and the industries and sectors they operate in. The challenges they face are often complex and considerable. In anticipating these and designing effective solutions we have a sharper commercial edge.

Our lawyers and support staff are highly talented and value a strong team ethic. They are also pragmatic and commercial whilst part of a refreshingly friendly and straightforward culture.

Welcome to Lawrence Graham.

FT Innovative Lawyers - Commendations 2011 - Dispute Resolution, Bribery and Corruption, Client Service      Winner Insolvency and Rescue Award - Insolvency Law Firm of the Year

Lawrence Graham LLP

Lawrence Graham is one of the oldest law firms in the world.

We can trace our history back over 280 years to the UK's first registration of law firms in 1730 – and we have evidence of being in business prior to that date.

Records show James and Thomas Graham were the two partners in the firm in the 1760s. In addition to practising law, they lent money to their clients and we have documents showing loans to dukes and earls of England during that period. 'The Gentleman's Magazine' wrote that in their capacity as confidential advisers they "by their zeal, ability, integrity, and indefatigable industry, restored many families of distinction to their estates, and to their wealth, ease, and comfort, by the judicious arrangement of their affairs."

The first Lawrence was Nathaniel Tertius Lawrence who joined the firm in 1854. He was an outstanding solicitor of his generation and became president of the Law Society in 1879. In 1880 he gave an address which was the first call for reform of the law of land and property. He was a man of such esteem that he was a trusted friend, confidant and adviser to many eminent personalities during the second half of Queen Victoria's reign, including a Prime Minister. Nathaniel's son James and his grandson William in due course also became partners in the firm.

The firm acted for clients who were not only owners of much of the wealth of the country but who were also senior political figures and government officials.

We have advised on a number of high profile matters over the years including:

  • Dealing with the probate of Napoleon's will, business and other affairs
  • Acting in the royal divorce between King George IV and Queen Caroline
  • Acting for Mr Simpson on his divorce from Wallis Simpson which freed her to marry Edward, Prince of Wales
  • Advising the estate of Diana, Princess of Wales following her death
      

The firm changed its name from Lawrence Graham Middleton Lewis to Lawrence Graham in 1983.

The Monaco practice, founded originally in 1979, was acquired in 2003.

In 2007 we moved from 190 Strand opposite the law courts, to a state of the art office development called More London, between London Bridge and Tower Bridge.

Our Dubai office opened in 2007 and in 2009 we established an office in Moscow.

Lawrence Graham LLP

Lawrence Graham's business strategy is shaped by those who understand it best – our partners.

The firm is led by senior partner Andrew Witts and managing partner Hugh Maule working with our equity partners' committee. Together they deal with strategy, partner admissions and remuneration, and monitor the performance of the firm.

Andrew Witts provides strategic leadership to the firm and works alongside Hugh Maule to ensure implementation of the firm's business strategy and management of day to day operations.

Andrew and Hugh meet regularly with clients to understand how we can improve our quality of service and better meet their needs.

Previously head of dispute resolution since 2008, Andrew was voted in as Lawrence Graham's senior partner in May 2011. He specialises in corporate fraud and international asset tracing, with particular experience in running complex multi-jurisdictional fraud and asset tracing matters. A founding member of FraudNet, the International Chamber of Commerce's international network of fraud litigation specialists, Andrew is also part of our Contentious Trust and Probate team having dealt with many trust litigation matters in most of the offshore jurisdictions.

Hugh was re-elected as our managing partner in May 2011 following his initial three-year term. He joined the firm more than 20 years ago and became head of our business and finance group in 2006. Hugh's legal expertise is primarily in corporate finance (flotations and secondary issues), takeovers, mergers, acquisitions, disposals, private equity, venture and development capital (including investment agreements and joint ventures).

Title

Lawrence Graham to open an office in Singapore
LG is opening an office in Singapore by forming an alliance with local firm PK Wong and Associates LLC.
Feb 2012 MORE

Rangers FC – a pre-emptive strike against HMRC?
Following recent news of Rangers FC's financial turmoil, Lawrence Graham Corporate Tax partner, Elliot Weston, comments.
Feb 2012 MORE

Kalahari Minerals sold for £650 million – advised by Lawrence Graham
LG hs advised Kalahari Minerals Plc in its sale to Taurus Mineral, a newly incorporated company formed at the direction of CGNPC-Uranium Resources Co. Ltd and the China-Africa Development Fund, for £650 million.
Feb 2012 MORE

LG advises on the sale of Sanderson and St Martins Lane Hotels
The central London hotels have been sold to Capital Hill Hotels Limited for £192m.
Feb 2012 MORE

LG advises Brewin Dolphin on the disposal of its corporate advisory & broking division
Brewin Dolphin, one of the UK's largest independent private client investment managers, has completed the disposal of its corporate advisory and broking division to a new partnership called N+1 Brewin.
Feb 2012 MORE

LG advises on cash offer by Acorn Global Investments Limited for Dhir India Investments Limited
The offer valued DII at £7 million. LG advised on all corporate, UK tax, finance and regulatory aspects of the transaction.
Jan 2012 MORE

Lawrence Graham advises on £54m law firm acquisition
LG has advised Slater & Gordon on its acquisition of Russell Jones & Walker for £54 million.
Jan 2012 MORE

Helga Breen comments on executive pay proposals
Following Vince Cable announcing the government's response to its consultation on measures to curb executive pay, Helga Breen comments.
Jan 2012 MORE

LG advises Greenko on $70m investment from Standard Chartered
LG has advised Greenko Group Plc – the AIM-traded Indian owner and operator of clean energy projects – on a US$70 million investment from Standard Chartered.
Jan 2012 MORE

'Forced retirement' case comes before the Supreme Court
A landmark legal dispute comes before the Supreme Court today brought by a solicitor who claims he was forcibly retired.
Jan 2012 MORE

LG further strengthens finance practice with hire of three partners
LG has further strengthened its leading finance group by hiring three partners.
Jan 2012 MORE

Clegg's employee share push is nothing new
LG's head of employment, Yvonne Gallagher, comments on Nick Clegg's plans to encourage more companies to offer shares to employees.
Jan 2012 MORE

LG has advised EIIB on its investment in Rasmala Holdings Limited
Lawrence Graham has advised leading financial services company European Islamic Investment Bank Plc ("EIIB") on its US$21m investment in Rasmala Holdings Limited.
Jan 2012 MORE

LG advises Kalahari Minerals
LG acting for Kalahari Minerals plc in connection with a £632 million cash offer for the company's entire share capital
Dec 2011 MORE

Government likely to welcome balanced General Anti Avoidance Rule report
The most eye-catching measure in the report is the proposal for an advisory panel
Nov 2011 MORE

LG strengthens its real estate practice with new partner hire
Mark Mallon is appointed from SJ Berwin as a partner in LG's leading real estate group.
Nov 2011 MORE

Stakes are high for UK Border Force chief as he lodges constructive dismissal claim
Constructive dismissal requires the employee to show that the employer's behaviour has been so seriously wrong as to amount to a breach of the contract
Nov 2011 MORE

LG advises Golden Prospect Precious Metals Limited on its £18.6m capital raising on the Channel Islands Stock Exchange
Partner Jeffrey Elway led the team at LG, which included corporate associates Farhod Moghadam, Jenna Beever and Esterina Fiore.
Nov 2011 MORE

Should unproductive workers lose their right to unfair dismissal?
Following news of a leaked government report recommending unproductive workers should lose their right to unfair dismissal, Yvonne Gallagher comments.
Oct 2011 MORE

Swiss investment to migrate to Singapore as Asia outperforms West
New and existing investment in Switzerland will migrate to Singapore as Asia begins to outperform the West economically
Oct 2011 MORE

LG recruits Courtney Rothery as an associate in its Dubai office
Courtney Rothery joins LG as an associate in its construction and projects team in Dubai
Oct 2011 MORE

LG recruits partner Iain Shurwood to its Finance practice
Iain Shurwood is to join LG's finance group from Squire Sanders Hammonds
Oct 2011 MORE

Lawrence Graham wins Insolvency Law Firm of the Year
LG wins Law Firm of the Year at the Insolvency and Rescue Awards
Oct 2011 MORE

Three commendations awarded to Lawrence Graham at FT Innovative Lawyers 2011
LG wins three commendations from the FT for its dispute resolution and private capital teams
Oct 2011 MORE

Dodge new agency worker regulations at your peril
Agency workers who have worked for a company for more than 12 weeks now have the same rights to basic employment and working conditions as permanent staff.
Sep 2011 MORE

Lawrence Graham advises on debt financing of £139m purchase of 19 storey City office by German fund manager
LG advises on £139m purchase of 30 Crown Place, London
Sep 2011 MORE

UK Swiss bank account holders could move to other offshore financial centres
The new UK-Swiss tax deal promises to bring in much needed revenue to the Government's coffers from individuals who have been avoiding disclosure for perhaps many years.
Aug 2011 MORE

What now for Sky as the Competition Commission provisionally finds against it?
The Competition Commission has provisionally found that Sky's control over pay-TV movie rights in the UK restricts competition between pay-TV providers.
Aug 2011 MORE

LG ranked as number one legal adviser to AIM clients in latest Hemscott advisers guide
It is the 13th consecutive quarter that LG has led on its own by market capitalisation
Aug 2011 MORE

Lawrence Graham ranked as number one legal adviser to AIM clients
Lawrence Graham ranked as number one legal adviser to AIM clients in latest Hemscott advisers guide.
Aug 2011 MORE

Shoesmith saga grinds towards conclusion
Sharon Shoesmith, former director of children's services of the London Borough of Haringey, seems likely to be awarded substantial damages following her peremptory sacking.
Aug 2011 MORE

Lawrence Graham LLP advises Frontera Resources Corporation on its equity fundraising
LG has advised Frontera Resources Corporation on its equity fundraising, SEDA facility, debt restructuring and redomicile to the Cayman Islands
Jul 2011 MORE

Lehman loses UK Supreme Court appeal as Justices unanimously uphold the supremacy of English law
The UK Supreme Court has today unanimously dismissed an appeal by Lehman Brothers' bankruptcy estate following a legal battle with a group of Australian noteholders
Jul 2011 MORE

UK bribery: another scalp for the FSA
Bribery offences in the UK are mostly policed by the Serious Fraud Office and, sometimes, the City of London Police.
Jul 2011 MORE

Next steps for Competition Commission after "calculated, strategic move by News Corp"
Following Culture Secretary Jeremy Hunt's decision to refer News Corp's bid for BSkyB to the Competition Commission yesterday, Rosemary Choueka comments.
Jul 2011 MORE

Analysis of BSkyB takeover
Jeremy Hunt's letter to the OFT and Ofcom is unlikely to persuade them to reconsider the News Corp acquisition of BSkyB.
Jul 2011 MORE

Lawrence Graham LLP advises Frontera Resources Corporation
Lawrence Graham LLP advises Frontera Resources Corporation on its equity fundraising, SEDA facility, debt restructuring and redomicile to the Cayman Islands
Jul 2011 MORE

Could News Corp face tribunal proceedings for NOTW redundancies?
Reports of the announcements made to staff on the News of the World yesterday would suggest that News Corporation will soon also have tribunal proceedings on its hands.
Jul 2011 MORE

Employers liability for phone hacking
Employers must consider carefully the instructions which they give to investigators acting on their behalf in relation to employment disputes.
Jul 2011 MORE

LG advises international forestry investment company on $67 million placement and CISX listing
LG has advised The Forest Company Limited in relation to its third private placement with a value of $67 million.
Jun 2011 MORE

Defras waste policy review lacks firm obligations
This review is the culmination of a year's work of analysis of waste policies in England.
Jun 2011 MORE

Wealthy parents are most likely to be behind a pre nup
Wealthy parents are most likely to be the driving force behind a pre-nuptial agreement, a poll conducted by Lawrence Graham has revealed.
Jun 2011 MORE

Lawrence Graham to advise Ukrainian oil and gas giant Naftogaz
LG has entered into a procurement contract with Naftogaz for the provision of legal advice and assistance.
Jun 2011 MORE

Unpaid intern wins minimum wage claim
Helga Breen looks at the use of interns following a recent decision by an employment tribunal.
May 2011 MORE

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co acquires HLG Holdings Ltd
LG has advised Arthur J. Gallagher & Co on the acquisition of HLG Holdings Ltd.
May 2011 MORE

LG advises Cape Plc on proposed new international holding company and move to the LSE market
LG is advising AIM-listed Cape plc on its step up from AIM to the Main Market of the London Stock Exchange.
May 2011 MORE

LG advises Brewin Dolphin on disposal of its corporate advisory and broking division
LG has advised Brewin Dolphin on the disposal of its corporate advisory and broking division to N+1 Brewin.
May 2011 MORE

Government proposals to review work laws unlikely to lead to any real change
The Government will conduct a review of areas of employment law which are perceived as burdensome by employers.
May 2011 MORE

LG appoints insurance and reinsurance specialist David Breslin as its head of dispute resolution and Richard Miles as head of real estate
LG has appointed David Breslin as head of Dispute Resolution and Richard Miles as head of Real Estate.
May 2011 MORE

Royal wedding brings pre nuptials into sharp focus
The world will be watching William and Kate as they tie the knot on 29 April but would it not be prudent to protect the prince's personal fortune by signing a pre-nuptial agreement?
Apr 2011 MORE

LG promotes two associates to partner in dispute resolution and corporate teams
LG is pleased to announce associates James Sidwell and David Ponsford will be joining the partnership on 1 May 2011.
Apr 2011 MORE

Pre nuptial agreements: what next?

Apr 2011 MORE

Successful restructuring of 16 Hilton Hotels
LG has acted for the owners on the successful restructuring of their multi-syndicated senior, stretch senior and mezzanine debt aggregating in excess of £340m, secured on a portfolio of 16 Hilton-managed hotels
Apr 2011 MORE

Lawrence Graham advises on Dolphin Capital Investors $40m convertible bond issue
The Investment Funds team at Lawrence Graham LLP ("LG"), the international business law firm, has advised existing client Dolphin Capital Investors Limited ("Dolphin") on the issue of US$40 million of convertible bonds.
Mar 2011 MORE

Reaction to new guidance on the UK Bribery Act
The Ministry of Justice has published its long awaited guidance on the Bribery Act due to come into force on 1st July 2011.
Mar 2011 MORE

Treasury Committee report calls for more assistance on tax policy making
The issue of how tax policy should be formulated has been attracting a lot of attention recently.
Mar 2011 MORE

Government aims to stop exodus from the UK with super-low rate of corporation tax for finance companies
The Government has moved to encourage UK groups to remain in the country by permitting their overseas group treasury companies to be subject to a very low effective rate of UK tax
Mar 2011 MORE

Budget reaction: Anthony Thompson
Following the Chancellor's Budget announcement today, Lawrence Graham's head of private capital, Anthony Thompson, comments.
Mar 2011 MORE

Osborne accepts final report of Lord Huttons Independent Public Service Pensions Commission in Budget announcement
The Chancellor's promise that the Government will accept Lord Hutton's recommendations in relation to what happens to public sector pension rights on a transfer to the private sector as a basis for consultation is welcome
Mar 2011 MORE

LG advises Longbow Real Estate Capital LLP on sale of a 51% interest to ICG plc
LG has advised the management of Longbow Real Estate Capital LLP on its sale of a 51 per cent interest to FTSE 250 company Intermediate Capital Group Plc.
Mar 2011 MORE

Budget should prioritise simplification to prevent exodus
The Government should simplify the UK's tax rules to stimulate growth in next week's Budget.
Mar 2011 MORE

Arthur J. Gallagher acquires business and assets of Woodbrook Underwriting Agencies Limited
LG has advised Arthur J. Gallagher & Co on its acquisition of the business and assets of underwriting agency Woodbrook Underwriting Agencies Limited.
Mar 2011 MORE

Lawrence Graham advises Kalahari Minerals on CGNPGs £756m takeover bid
LG has acted for Kalahari Minerals in connection with a £756 million possible cash offer for the company's entire share capital by Chinese state-owned CGNPG Uranium Resources Co.
Mar 2011 MORE

The Crown Estate makes new appointments to the urban portfolios legal panel
The Crown Estate can announce that, following a competitive tender process, Burges Salmon LLP and Lawrence Graham LLP have been appointed to provide legal services for our urban portfolio. The appointments are effective from 1 April 2011.
Mar 2011 MORE

Richard Keys. case for unfair dismissal?
Sky Sports commentator Richard Keys has resigned from Sky Sports following comments about female referee Sian Massey and other recordings which have emerged.
Feb 2011 MORE

The end of Fair Deal for public sector pensions?
George Osborne is poised to announce what may be the beginning of the end for the current protection of the pension rights of public sector workers who transfer into the private sector.
Feb 2011 MORE

City lawyer wary of new Treasury plans for FCA
Following the publication of the consultation paper detailing plans for City regulation after the FSA is disbanded, the Treasury proposes to give the newFCA the ability to comment publicly on enforcement actions earlier than before.
Feb 2011 MORE

A criminal reduction in child worker checks?
The government is proposing to roll back Labour's vetting and barring scheme (VBS) and to replace the existing system with a more efficient and effective system.
Feb 2011 MORE

Non EU migrants earning £150,000 or more to escape immigration cap
The Government has announced that individuals from non-EU countries earning £150,000 or more a year will not be subject to the immigration cap due to take effect on 6 April 2011.
Feb 2011 MORE

Henderson UK Property Unit Trust invests £30m, advised by LG
The Henderson UK Property Unit Trust has invested almost £30m in the first month of 2011, boosting the distributable yield on the fund to 4.6%. LG advised Henderson in all transactions.
Feb 2011 MORE

Lawrence Graham ranked as top legal adviser to AIM clients
LG has been named as the top legal adviser to AIM clients in the latest Hemscott Advisers Rankings Guide.
Feb 2011 MORE

Whos the twit?
The recent ruling by the Press Complaints Commission in the case brought by Sarah "Baskers" Baskerville against the Daily Mail and the Independent on Sunday is a timely reminder to all
Feb 2011 MORE

Wealthy migrants in, skilled and highly skilled workers out. has the Government got its focus wrong?
The Government, in an attempt to bolster the UK's economy, is proposing to introduce changes aimed at increasing the number of wealthy migrants coming to the country.
Feb 2011 MORE

Top Gear comments could amount to racial harassment
Surprisingly this comment by Top Gear's Richard "the Hamster" Hammond wasn't directed at his fellow presenters, Jeremy Clarkson and James May.
Feb 2011 MORE

Average retirement ages increase as older employees stay in the workplace
Yesterday, the Office for National Statistics published new estimates of the "average age of withdrawal from the labour market" for the UK.
Feb 2011 MORE

Bribery Act delay. is the UK soft on international corruption?
This further delay is hard to understand. There has been more or less constant consultation with industry and many other interested parties for almost four years.
Jan 2011 MORE

BBC case highlights broad spectrum of discrimination
The Employment Tribunal decision in favour of Miriam O'Reilly in her claim against the BBC is a high-profile example of an organisation that expresses clearly its commitment to diversity but which was found to have discriminated unlawfully.
Jan 2011 MORE

Is the Premier League liable for the behaviour of football commentators?
Sky Sports commentators and pundits Richard Keys and Andy Gray's comments about assistant referee Sian Massey have focused attention on sexism within the world of sport and sports television.
Jan 2011 MORE

Cable attempts to reduce employment tribunals
The government plans to consult on proposals to reform the Employment Tribunal system and qualifying periods for unfair dismissal.
Jan 2011 MORE

Elliot Weston to join Lawrence Graham as a partner in its Corporate Tax team
Elliot Weston to join Lawrence Graham as a partner in its Corporate Tax team as it expands its tax structuring capabilities for real estate.
Jan 2011 MORE

Flexible family leave provisions
As the long awaited additional paternity leave rights finally come to the fore, Nick Clegg has been outlining his vision of family leave for the future.
Jan 2011 MORE

LG advises The Threadneedle Low Carbon Workplace Trust in its first purchase
LG partner Robert Adam has advised The Threadneedle Low-Carbon Workplace Trust, the first fund to be launched in conjunction with the Carbon Trust, in its initial purchase of four buildings for £42 million.
Jan 2011 MORE

Reaction to Government review of Bribery Act
This 'review' seems to be part of a much wider review of legislation, not something specific to the Bribery Act.
Jan 2011 MORE

LG advises on four AIM deals involving African natural resource companies
LG advises on four AIM deals involving African natural resource companies.
Jan 2011 MORE

Peter Brudenall joins Lawrence Graham as a partner in its commerce and technology team
Peter Brudenall has joined LG as a partner in its commerce and technology group.
Jan 2011 MORE

LG advises Healthcare Locums on acquisition and £128m refinancing
LG has acted for Healthcare Locums Plc on its £77.8 million acquisition of Healthcare Australia Holdings Pty Ltd and related £128 million debt refinancing.
Dec 2010 MORE

New Senior Partner elected at Lawrence Graham LLP
LG announces today that its partners have elected Andrew Witts as Senior Partner and re-elected Hugh Maule as Managing Partner with effect from 1st May 2011.
Dec 2010 MORE

LG advises on fast track AIM admission and £20m fundraisings
LG has advised nominated adviser and broker Cenkos Securities plc on two AIM-related transactions.
Dec 2010 MORE

LG advises on £94.7 million Main Market listing, £50 million placing and £20 million placing and offer for subscription
The investment funds team at LG has advised BlackRock Frontiers Investment Trust plc on its Main Market listing and £94.7 million fundraising by way of a placing.
Dec 2010 MORE

Lawrence Graham recognised for "sterling performance" as it almost doubles AIM clients within five years
LG has been named top legal adviser to AIM-listed clients in the 5th Anniversary Hemscott Corporate Advisers Rankings Guide.
Dec 2010 MORE

Antony Woodhouse joins Lawrence Graham as a partner in its insurance and reinsurance team
LG has hired partner Antony Woodhouse from Edwards Angell Palmer & Dodge (formerly Kendall Freeman) to join its highly regarded insurance and reinsurance team.
Dec 2010 MORE

LG advises Cenkos on £18m oil and gas placing
LG has advised nominated adviser and broker Cenkos Securities Plc in relation to a fundraising for Canadian oil and gas company Caza Oil & Gas, Inc.
Nov 2010 MORE

LG advises on £110m AIM secondary fundraising for Cove Energy plc
LG has acted for AIM client Cove Energy Plc on its £110 million (gross) fundraising.
Nov 2010 MORE

Survey points to bright future for independent private banks
Almost 100 influential figures from London's banking, trustee and advisory communities came together this week for a topical debate on the future of private banks and how the super rich manage their wealth, held by Lawrence Graham LLP.
Nov 2010 MORE

No privilege for crimes in parliament
A group of MPs and a Member of the House of Lords have been charged with false accounting under section 17 of the Theft Act 1968.
Nov 2010 MORE

AIM listed Clipper Windpower Plc acquired by United Technologies Corporation
LG is acting for Clipper Windpower Plc on its proposed recommended cash acquisition by United Technologies Corporation.
Nov 2010 MORE

Lawrence Graham consolidates its position as top AIM legal adviser
LG has been named top legal adviser to AIM clients in the Hemscott rankings for the third quarter of 2010. It is the sixth consecutive quarter that it has held this position.
Nov 2010 MORE

Lawyers warn that quangos fate is complicated
The government has announced today that it has ditched 192 quasi-autonomous non-governmental organisations
Oct 2010 MORE

Waste lawyers welcome a single diverse waste policy
Today marks the closing date for responses to the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs' review of waste policies.
Oct 2010 MORE

LG advises international AIM listed mining company on takeover
LG has acted for Firestone Diamonds Plc on its takeover by way of a scheme of arrangement of Kopane Diamond Developments Plc.
Oct 2010 MORE

Bribery Act consultation guidance should not be ignored

Sep 2010 MORE

LG India focus pays further dividend with major AIM IPO
LG has advised nominated adviser Arden Partners Plc in connection with a £37 million AIM IPO for Indian outsourcing and call centre operator iEnergizer.
Sep 2010 MORE

LG advises Healthcare Locums on a trio of acquisitions and placing
LG has advised AIM-listed Healthcare Locums Plc on three acquisitions and an £11 million placing.
Aug 2010 MORE

Real estate experts warn of complications for corporate trustees and LPs with the CRC scheme
As you may be aware, The Environment Agency issued guidance last month in relation to how the Carbon Reduction Commitment Scheme (CRC) will apply to trusts.
Jul 2010 MORE

LG advises Development Securities plc on acquisition of the largest indoor venue in Europe
LG has advised leading property developer and investment company Development Securities plc on its purchase of the Manchester Evening News Arena Complex for £62.2 million.
Jun 2010 MORE

LG advises international investment property company on £35m placing and open offer and firm placing
LG has advised Japan Residential Investment Company Limited on a £35 million fundraising by way of a placing and open offer and firm placing.
Jun 2010 MORE

LG advises on sale of defence products business to Key Technologies Plc
LG has recently advised on the sale of the business and assets of Primetake Limited to Ensco 781 Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Key Technologies Plc. The value of the deal was £10.5 million.
Jun 2010 MORE

LG grows Private Capital team in Dubai
Angela Calnan, a senior Private Capital solicitor, has joined LG's award-winning Private Capital team.
Jun 2010 MORE

LG advises international forestry investment company on $126 million placement
LG has advised The Forest Company Limited in relation to its second private placement of $126 million.
Jun 2010 MORE

LG advises Arthur J. Gallagher & Co on its latest acquisition
LG has advised Arthur J. Gallagher & Co (Gallagher), the international insurance broking and risk management services firm, on the acquisition of Risk & Reward Group (Holdings) Limited from its existing management team.
Jun 2010 MORE

Lawyers warn Apple iBookstore could cause price fixing issues
Apple seems to have a complex pricing structure in place, but it needs to be careful.
May 2010 MORE

Lawrence Graham consolidates position as top AIM legal adviser
LG remains top legal adviser to AIM clients in the Hemscott rankings for the second quarter of 2010.
May 2010 MORE

LG strengthens Real Estate, Litigation, IP and Competition with appointment of four new partners
LG is pleased to announce that it has promoted Jeremy Andrews (Litigation), Susanna Beeson (Real Estate), Rosemary Choueka (Competition/ Public Procurement) and Georgie Collins (IP) to the partnership.
May 2010 MORE

Lawyers warn new competition rules could impact deals
As you may be aware, the European Commission has unveiled its new rules on vertical agreements and competition law.
Apr 2010 MORE

LG advises on AIM listing for Brazilian retail focused real estate company
LG has advised Squarestone Brasil Limited on its admission to AIM and £28.2 million fundraising.
Apr 2010 MORE

Indian power company KSK Power moves from AIM to LSE Main Market
LG has advised KSK Power Ventur plc in connection with its move up from AIM to the Main Market of the London Stock Exchange by way of a standard listing.
Apr 2010 MORE

Anti corruption lawyers welcome revolutionary Bribery Act
As you are probably aware, the Bribery Act has been passed by Parliament and is likely to receive Royal Assent today (Thursday 8 April).
Apr 2010 MORE

LG advises on fundraising for international natural resources AIM company
LG has acted for AIM client Cove Energy Plc on a fundraising which will take the aggregate funds raised by the company since last summer to over £70 million.
Mar 2010 MORE

LG advises on worlds first wave and tidal energy leasing
LG has advised Marine Current Turbines on its successful bid for a lease agreement with The Crown Estate for the world's first commercial wave and tidal leasing round.
Mar 2010 MORE

LG advises on third Dubai liquidation in the DIFC
LG has advised Shahab Haider, the Liquidator of Orion Holding Overseas Limited, which was ordered to be wound up on 11 January 2010.
Mar 2010 MORE

LG names Fairbridge as annual charity partner
LG has chosen Fairbridge, a charity supporting young people, as its annual charity for 2010.
Mar 2010 MORE

LG advises leading AIM listed Indian renewable energy company on £72 million placing
LG has advised Greenko Group PLC on a £72 million fundraising by way of a placing of ordinary shares by Arden Partners plc and Mirabaud Securities LLP.
Mar 2010 MORE

LG advises Marine Current Turbines Limited on new funding from Siemens
LG has advised Marine Current Turbines Limited on a £4.8 million round of investment from global engineering firm, Siemens Plc, the Carbon Trust, High Tide Worldwide BV and other private investors.
Mar 2010 MORE

LG successfully defends the Office for Legal Complaints in challenge by the Law Society
LG successfully defended the Office for Legal Complaints against a High Court challenge by the Law Society to the new Legal Ombudsman scheme.
Mar 2010 MORE

LG advises on sale of leading online gaming developer
LG has acted for Virtue Fusion Limited, a leading developer and licensor of online Bingo products, and its shareholders on the sale of the Virtue Fusion business to AIM-quoted, Playtech Ltd.
Feb 2010 MORE

LG advises BMW UK Pension Scheme on largest ever longevity insurance deal
LG has advised the trustee of the BMW (UK) Operations Pension Scheme on a major longevity insurance transaction covering its 60,000 pensioners.
Feb 2010 MORE

LG advises on international superconductor energy technology company fundraising
LG has advised AIM client Zenergy Power plc on a secondary fundraising of £20 million.
Feb 2010 MORE

LG advises Cenkos on fundraisings
LG has advised nominated adviser and broker Cenkos Securities Plc on two fundraisings for Entertainment One Ltd and Optare plc.
Feb 2010 MORE

School buildings imbalance could impact energy efficiency
Lawyers warn that plans to list more schools to secure their protection because of the replacement and refurbishment imbalance, could impact on energy efficiency measures.
Jan 2010 MORE

LG advises leading leisure company on sale and leaseback of Premier Inn Hotels
LG has advised Whitbread Group Plc on the sale and leaseback of five Premier Inn Hotels.
Jan 2010 MORE

LG advises on a $270 million deal for wind energy client
LG has advised Clipper Windpower Plc on a US$270 million transaction with United Technologies Corporation.
Jan 2010 MORE

LG expands its Real Estate team
LG is pleased to announce that Iain Thomas will join the Real Estate team as a partner focusing on finance.
Jan 2010 MORE

LG acts on a hat-trick of innovative investment fund restructurings
LG has recently advised three AIM quoted funds in connection with innovative restructuring schemes.
May 2009 MORE

LG celebrates top spot with a flurry of fundraisings on AIM and LSE Main Market
LG has advised on secondary fundraisings for five clients on both AIM and the Main Market of the London Stock Exchange with an aggregate value of approximately £78 million.
May 2009 MORE

LG advises on a quartet of AIM fundraisings
LG has advised on a quartet of AIM fundraisings which have completed in the last 10 days with an aggregate value of approximately £50 million.
Mar 2009 MORE

Lawrence Graham LLP

People*

Number of partners: 70
Number of lawyers: 163
Number of support staff: 191

*Figures include London, Dubai and Monaco as at 1 February 2012

Financial

Turnover 2010/11: £59m
58% revenues from domestic clients; 42% from overseas clients
International revenues grew 50% in FY 2009/10 on the prior financial year
Dubai office turnover increased 26% in FY2010/11

Management

Senior Partner: Andrew Witts
Managing Partner: Hugh Maule

Offices

Four: London, Dubai, Monaco and Moscow

Our clients

We have acted for 41 FTSE companies
We have acted for for 14% of FTSE 100 companies; 6% FTSE 250 companies; and 8% of FTSE 350 companies
We have acted for 12 FTSE Small Cap companies
We act / have acted for 23 (5%) of all Fortune 500 companies 

Practice groups

Commerce and Technology (headed by Jonathan Riley)
Corporate and Corporate Tax (headed by Christopher Tite)
Dispute Resolution (headed by David Breslin)
Employment and Pensions (headed by Yvonne Gallagher)
Finance (headed by Nick Turner)
Private Capital (headed by Anthony Thompson)
Real Estate (headed by Richard Miles)

Key industry sectors

Financial Institutions
Real Estate
Hospitality and Leisure (including retail)
Private Capital
Energy and Natural Resources (including renewable energy)
Healthcare
Publishing and Media
Support Services
Technology

Corporate responsibility

Total number of pro bono hours in 2010: 577
Pro Bono clients include The Big Issue, Relate and End Child Poverty
The value of LG'€™s free legal advice for The Big Issue in the past year alone was over £83,000
In the last year LG has raised £73,000 for its former chosen charity, Fairbridge – a national charity supporting young people aged 13-25.
LG's charity of the year 2011: Richard House, London's first children's hospice which provides care and support for life-limited children and children with complex healthcare conditions and their families

Environment

ISO 14001 accreditation (among the first UK law firms to gain this accreditation)
10% reduction in our paper usage over the last year
Over 65% of LG waste is recycled each year
3% reduction in energy consumption in the last year
Recycling options: paper, cardboard, glass, plastic, cans, batteries, toner cartridges
First UK law firm certified organic by the Soil Association, the world'€™s leading organic body
The number of Soil Association standards that LG and our suppliers must meet in order to maintain our organic accreditation is 2,000
Winner Best Green Initiative KnowList Awards 2010

Awards

Winner: Insolvency Law Firm of the Year, Insolvency & Rescue Awards 2011
Highly Commended: Dispute Resolution, FT Innovative Lawyers 2011
Commended: Bribery and Corruption, FT Innovative Lawyers 2011
Commended: Client Service, FT Innovative Lawyers 2011
Two associates are ranked in the Private Client Practitioner Top 35 Under 35 list (September 2011)
Hemscott ranks LG Top Adviser to FTSE AIM Top 100 Clients and FTSE AIM Top 50 Clients in both the 'number of clients' and 'market capitalisation' categories. Also Top Legal Adviser to all AIM clients by market capitalisation
Winner: LG's Information Resources and Know-How team, 2010 Halsbury's Award for Best Legal Information Services (Commercial Sector) -€“ London Only
Winner: Private Client Team of the Year 2010, Legal Business Awards

The Legal 500 2011

Number of named / recommended lawyers: 39
Number of practice area rankings: 37
Promoted / newly ranked in three practice groups: Pensions Dispute Resolution, Contentious Trusts and Probate and Intellectual Property (new ranking)

Chambers Guide 2012

Number of categories ranked: 37
Number of named / recommended lawyers: 35

LG statistics

We are currently listed on Hemscott as acting for 51 AIM and Main Market companies
Since 2007 we have acted on transactions for 95 AIM companies, either for the companies themselves or their Nomad/broker
We act / have acted for 46 Main Market companies
LG has advised on nine of the 29 IPOs for Indian focused companies currently listed on AIM
LG advises international real estate funds with assets well in excess of £20 billion

Andrew Witts
Senior Partner
Andrew Witts
Hugh Maule
Managing Partner
Hugh Maule
.