About

Provided by Harper James

Overview

Every founder’s journey is unique, but legal hurdles are universal. From launch to exit, the choices you make today shape tomorrow’s success. We’ve supported thousands of ventures – from bold start-ups to standout scale-ups – helping founders grow with confidence.

The big idea

You’ve found your gap and built your plan. Before chasing your first customer, pause to protect your idea and lay strong legal foundations.

  • We helped university spin-out Lockabox craft a distinctive brand and secure trade mark protection across key markets.

Getting started

Momentum is exciting – but rushing can hold you back. We’ll help you lock in the essentials so you’re built to scale.

  • Since 2021, Diistil has shaken up the spirits scene. We supported growth with contracts, GDPR and age verification, fuelling expansion to 25+ venues.

Getting on with it

You’re growing fast – bigger clients, bigger stakes. We’ll keep you protected and ready for what’s next.

  • When Slime Party needed new premises, we reviewed terms, flagged risks and secured a deal aligned with their ambitions.

Scaling up

Growth brings opportunity and complexity. From funding rounds to acquisitions, we’ll keep you covered.

  • For Saicho, we negotiated VC terms supporting global expansion and founder control.

Exit

You’ve built something great – now it’s time to move on. Whether a sale or buy-out, we’ll make your exit seamless.

  • We helped Korus Health set up an Employee Ownership Trust, managing every step for a smooth transition.

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

SME-focused Firms - UK-wide

1
Band 1

What the Team is Known For

Founded by Toby Harper in 2014, Harper James provides legal access to small and medium-sized businesses, offering flexible price plans including subscription-based models for SME clients. As a full-service law firm, it supports clients across a range of areas, including corporate law and commercial contracts. Its lawyers are also experienced in IP, dispute resolution and employment issues. The firm is particularly strong in the technology sector, including matters involving AI.

Notable practitioners

Adam Kudryl is a key contact.

Work Highlights

  • Harper James advised Vet Vision AI, an agritech company that uses AI to monitor the behaviour and welfare of livestock animals in real time. The firm undertook comprehensive contract reviews and assisted in developing the company's initial suite of contracts.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

Members

Provided by Harper James

Adam Kudryl

Ben Evans

Ian Carson

James Ratcliffe

Jill Bainbridge

John Pauley

Parmjit Gill

Samantha Lenox

Simon Gilmour

Stephen Pearne

Clients

Provided by Harper James

CES Power

CEWE

Chameleon Technology

Codevate

DMPG

Diistil

Korus Health

Manors Golf

RedteQ

Saicho

Slime Party

TOPRA

TicketSellers

Vet Vision AI

VirtueUK

Youtility

iFast

Industries

Provided by Harper James

Creative Industries

Energy, Utilities & Environmental

Life Sciences

Manufacturing & Engineering

Public Sector

Retail & Luxury Brands

Sports

Start-ups

Technology