Do I need a solicitor to buy a small business?
Strictly speaking, no. You are not legally required to use one. But buying even a tiny company means signing a stack of documents, checking licences, contracts and tax history, and making sure you do not inherit unexpected debts. A solicitor keeps all of that on track, spots problems early and saves you the anxiety of discovering an issue after the money has changed hands. We know the worry is often about cost, which is why we have built an affordable service that still gives you proper protection.
JPP Law offers the perfect solution
Our team handles business sales and purchases every day, mostly for SMEs and larger companies. But we understand how hard it can be for smaller buyers to find cost-effective help. Our Small-Business Purchase Service bridges that gap. For a simple, fixed fee we cover the key legal work while routine admin stays with you (following our step-by-step guidance). You stay in control, costs stay predictable, and the deal moves forward smoothly.
Why use a solicitor when buying a small business?
Make sure you’re really getting what you think you’re buying – We confirm ownership of shares or assets, check licences and contracts, and identify liabilities that could follow you after completion.
Reduce the risk of nasty surprises – From unpaid taxes to employee claims, we detect issues early so you don’t inherit a headache.
Keep the deal moving – Clear contracts and structured timelines prevent misunderstandings and last-minute panics that can kill a deal.
Save time, worry and money – You focus on preparing for ownership while we handle the stressful legal aspects of the purchase.
Save on legal fees by working with us, proactively
The discounted rate works because we treat the transaction as a joint project. You gather and organise the information; we take on the legal duties. This allows us to cut down on your billable hours and keep the timetable tight.
A proactive approach starts with assembling the accounts, main contracts and operational documents before we begin drafting. We’ll communicate openly with you and your accountant if you have one, working promptly and efficiently. In most straightforward share purchases, that means we can wrap up the legal work within five hours.
What are the fees?
The first five hours cost a fixed £1,000 plus VAT, which works out at £200 per hour instead of our standard £380. If we can see the matter will need more than five hours, we will tell you before carrying on and agree either a fixed figure or a sensible cap. If you decide to continue on a time-spent basis, additional work is charged at our usual £380 plus VAT. Either way, we are always transparent about our fees, so you will know the likely total before you commit.
Which purchases qualify?
The service is offered by application to a limited number of buyers. As a guide, we can usually accommodate purchases priced under £750,000 where you are buying the shares of a limited company rather than just its assets.
Exclusions
The fixed-fee package does not cover the sale or transfer of property or a commercial lease, nor does it extend to specialist tax or sector-specific regulatory advice. We can introduce a trusted property law partner for any lease or freehold work, or you are free to instruct a different firm.
Ready to apply?
Fill out our secure online form, and we will confirm your eligibility, explain the next steps and schedule a free introductory call (phone or Microsoft Teams—whichever suits you).
Small Business Sale / Purchase Discounted Legal Support Application
Our fees
You will only ever be charged for services you have formally agreed to in writing. Wherever possible we offer fixed or capped fees; when we need to work on a time-spent basis our rates are competitive and completely transparent.
