Department profile
Debenhams Ottaway

Corporate/M&A: £5 million and above

UK Guide 2026 : Thames Valley


Debenhams Ottaway

Rankings

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Corporate/M&A: £5 million and above - Thames Valley

Band 3

Band 3


What the Team is Known For

Debenhams Ottaway has a strong focus on M&A, finance and business structuring work. With offices based in Hertfordshire, the firm's corporate and commercial team has experience advising owner-managed businesses as well as entrepreneurs.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

  • One of the key strengths that distinguishes Debenhams Ottaway from others in the legal industry is its unique blend of deep-rooted local presence and modern, forward-thinking legal practice.

    Corporate/M&A: £5 million and above respondentUK
  • The team focus on the client and have quality individuals who are all highly experienced. They are proactive and responsive.

    Corporate/M&A: £5 million and above respondentUK
  • The firm is very capable; the service levels and responsiveness are always excellent. They have a deserved reputation for good value for money.

    Corporate/M&A: £5 million and above respondentUK
  • The team are responsive and reliable. More importantly, they are very thorough, covering every detail of the project they are working on.

    Corporate/M&A: £5 million and above respondentUK
  • Their detailed advice on complex issues has always been forthcoming and delivered to clients in a practical, understandable way. They have very quick response times and stick to deadlines once agreed.

    Corporate/M&A: £5 million and above respondentUK

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

  • Band 3Andrew Yates
    Band 3Andrew Yates

    Andrew Yates

    Andrew Yates heads the corporate team at Debenhams Ottaway. Andrew is experienced in advising clients on a range of corporate matters, with a particular focus on acquisitions and corporate structures.

    • Andrew, is diligent, incredibly hard working and very responsive. He takes the time to explain every aspect of your case, carefully explaining in detail anything that maybe unfamiliar or new to you.

      Corporate/M&A: £5 million and above respondentUK
    • Andrew was always on top of every issue and was able to move the process along in a timely manner. He was always available.

      Corporate/M&A: £5 million and above respondentUK
    • I found Andrew very good to work with.

      Corporate/M&A: £5 million and above respondentUK
    • Andrew is an excellent solicitor at the top of his game. He has excellent commercial awareness and the ability to explain complex scenarios simply.

      Corporate/M&A: £5 million and above respondentUK
  • Band 3James Brawn
    Band 3James Brawn

    James Brawn

    James Brawn is recognised for the breadth of his commercial expertise. He advises clients of all varieties on corporate transactions. James regularly works on transactions that have insolvency elements.

    • James is a great client partner; thoughtful and clear, he looks to simplify and not complicate.

      Corporate/M&A: £5 million and above respondentUK
    • James Brawn consistently delivers exceptional legal support, combining deep technical expertise with a highly responsive and client-focused approach.

      Corporate/M&A: £5 million and above respondentUK
    • James is an excellent communicator, explaining complex legal issues in a way that makes them, and the proactive solutions he puts forward, accessible to clients.

      Corporate/M&A: £5 million and above respondentUK
    • James is an outstanding individual who reassures his clients and works at a pace that suits them.

      Corporate/M&A: £5 million and above respondentUK
    • James is very dedicated and always provides excellent service.

      Corporate/M&A: £5 million and above respondentUK

Ranked Individuals at Debenhams Ottaway (2)

Thames Valley

Members

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