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.

We had to get a flat purchase in Exeter done very quickly. Nicola Hughes and her team at PD pulled out all the stops to get the purchase over the line in an amazing short time - 2 months from first viewing the flat to moving in! This was despite major complications with the Land Registry. Throughout the rather fraught (for us) process, Nicola was efficient, calm, reassuring and kept us well informed. Very highly recommended.

Steve

I have just sold a house and Porter Dodson were my choice of solicitors. I am so glad I chose this firm! Louise from the Poundbury branch was so helpful. All my enquiries were answered very promptly and clearly and I felt the whole sale was dealt with very professionally. I would not hesitate in recommending this company.

Ben

I instructed Ellice Pounder recently to write my Will. She was excellent, very professional and I was well advised throughout the process. I would highly recommend Ellice.

Beth

Used Porter Dodson for conveyancing on my first house and they were brilliant. All staff I came into contact with were supplying me with all the information and patience when I asked many questions. They provided me with regular updates, advice on process and best choices and gave clear guidance on competing the paperwork. Would absolutely recommend.

Daisy