• Swindon & Wiltshire Experts
• Wednesday June 24 2026
• Author Name: Natasha Thomas

FAQ – the top five questions people ask a corporate lawyer

Network enough and you’ll find out the most frequently asked questions about your job. Here, Natasha Thomas, a senior associate solicitor at Wiltshire- and Bath-based law firm Awdry Law reveals the top five questions she gets asked.

I advise business owners, shareholders, management teams and investors on a range of corporate matters, from shareholders’ agreements and business sales to investments, reorganisations and day-to-day structuring issues.

I have always had a particular interest in family-owned and managed businesses. Growing up, both of my grandmothers owned and managed businesses, so I saw first-hand the amount of time, energy and personal commitment that goes into building something of your own.

I think that is one of the reasons I enjoy this area of work so much, as I care very much about the milestones which you reach with your business. For many of my clients, a business is not just 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.

My approach is to keep advice clear, practical and commercial. Corporate law can sound more intimidating than it needs to be, and most clients are not looking for a lecture on drafting theory over their morning coffee. They usually just want to know what matters, what the risks are and how to move things forward sensibly and swiftly.

Questions I am often asked:

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.

Natasha Thomas is a senior associate solicitor at Awdry Law