Ask Natasha: Corporate without the jargon
Natasha Thomas is a Senior Associate Solicitor in the Corporate Department at Awdry Law.
She advises business owners, shareholders, management teams and investors on a wide range of corporate matters, including shareholders agreements, business sales, investments, reorganisations and the structural issues that support day-to-day operations.
She has a particular interest in family-owned and managed businesses. Both of her grandmothers ran their own companies, so she grew up with a clear understanding of the time, energy and personal commitment involved in building a business. This experience shapes her work. Natasha recognises that for many clients a business is not simply a commercial asset. It is something they have built, backed and worried about for years, often with a great deal of themselves tied up in it.
Natasha’s approach is clear, practical and commercial. She focuses on what matters, the risks involved and the most sensible way forward. Corporate law can appear more intimidating than it needs to be, and clients are rarely looking for a technical lecture over their morning coffee. They want straightforward, actionable advice that helps them make decisions with confidence and keep momentum in their business.
Here she answers some FAQs she has encountered in her role.
When should I speak to a corporate solicitor?
Usually earlier than you think, and there is no such concept as too early in this context. I often speak to business owners once heads of terms have been agreed or a problem has already appeared, but earlier advice is strongly recommended. It can help identify risk, protect value and avoid unnecessary cost later, whether you are bringing in an investor, restructuring your business, buying or selling a company, or putting key documents in place.
Do I really need a Shareholders’ Agreement?
If there is more than one owner, very often yes. A Shareholders’ Agreement helps set the ground rules on decision-making, exits, share transfers and disputes. It is much easier to agree those points while everyone is still getting on than to try to negotiate them later, when people are no longer describing each other as a pleasure to work with.
What should I be thinking about if I want to sell my business?
Preparation is key. Buyers will want to understand the structure of the business, its contracts, its financial position, any risks or disputes, and whether the paperwork is in good order. I often say that good legal housekeeping will not sell the business on its own, but it can make the process smoother, quicker and much less stressful. More importantly, a clean business will better withstand any attempt by a buyer to chip at the price.
I am buying a business. What are the main legal risks?
The answer always depends on the detail, but common issues include unclear ownership, liabilities sitting beneath the surface, weak contract protection, tax exposure and documents that do not properly reflect what has been agreed. My role is not just to spot the problems. It is to help clients assess risk, negotiate sensible protection and keep the deal moving.
Can a corporate solicitor help even if there is no transaction happening right now?
Absolutely. Corporate legal support is not just for sales and acquisitions. I also help clients with business structuring, constitutional documents, shareholder arrangements, governance and planning for future growth. In many cases, the best time to sort these issues is before they become urgent and before they develop a habit of appearing late on a Friday afternoon.
If you would like to have a chat about your business, a potential sale, growth or your internal documents, I would be very happy to help.
