Protecting your legacy. Supporting your future

Running a family business means more than managing operations - it means safeguarding relationships, planning for the future, and protecting what you’ve built together. At Porter Dodson, we understand the unique dynamics of family-run enterprises and offer tailored legal advice to help you thrive across generations.

Whether you're formalising agreements, planning succession, or navigating sensitive disputes, our team is here to provide clarity, confidence, and practical solutions.

Legal services for family businesses

We offer a comprehensive range of legal services designed to support the unique needs of family-owned businesses:

Family Business Agreements
Set clear expectations and responsibilities with bespoke agreements that protect both the business and the family.
Estate Planning
Ensure your personal and business assets are structured for long-term security and tax efficiency.
Succession Planning
Plan for leadership transitions with strategies that preserve harmony and business continuity.
Dispute Resolution
Resolve internal conflicts with sensitivity and a focus on preserving relationships and business stability.
Commercial Property
Legal support for buying, selling, leasing, or developing property used by the business.
Employment Law
Advice on contracts, policies, and HR matters—whether your team is family or not.
Divorce & Separation
Protect the business during personal changes with expert legal guidance.
Nuptial Agreements
Safeguard business interests with pre- and post-nuptial agreements tailored to your circumstances.

Why choose Porter Dodson for your Family Business?

Recognised excellence – Ranked in both The Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners for our expertise in Corporate Commercial, Private Client services, Commercial Property and Agriculture and Rural Affairs.
Specialist Understanding
We know the legal and emotional complexities of running a family business.
Joined-up legal support – Our team works seamlessly across property, corporate commercial, litigation, family and private client to protect your personal and business interests.
Trusted by generations – With deep roots in the community, we’ve supported families and business owners across the South West and beyond for decades.

All staff pleasant, helpful and efficient. Very happy with your service.

Private Client

Having used Porter Dodson for many years we still feel we are well looked after especially when using a range of their services with different team members. Louise and Tiffany are always so friendly, reassuring and professional. I can highly recommend them for conveyancing.

Carol

Ros and Elle from the Dorchester branch were very professional but also approachable and kept me informed as to where we were in the land sale process at all times. The price charged for the work was very fair and was exactly what the initial estimate said it would be. Overall I am very impressed and happy with the service offered and the friendly approach to working with the team.

Sandy