At DTM Legal, our Corporate & Commercial Team provides clear and pragmatic advice on a wide range of commercial contract matters. Whether you are a start-up, an SME, or a large international group of companies, having well-drafted agreements in place is essential to protect your interests, manage risk, and ensure smooth commercial relationships.
Our solicitors combine technical expertise with a practical, business-focused approach, tailoring advice to your specific circumstances and commercial objectives. We regularly advise businesses across multiple sectors, from manufacturing and technology to retail and professional services.
Our Commercial Contract Services
We act for businesses at all stages of growth and provide support on the negotiation, drafting, and review of key commercial agreements. Our services include advice on:
- Supply of Goods and Services Agreements – ensuring your terms of business are clear, compliant, and enforceable.
- Distribution and Agency Agreements – advising on UK and international arrangements, competition law compliance, and termination provisions.
- Franchise Agreements – supporting franchisors and franchisees with comprehensive contractual frameworks.
- Partnership and Joint Venture Agreements – clarifying rights, responsibilities, and profit-sharing arrangements.
- Shareholders’ Agreements – protecting shareholder interests and managing corporate governance.
- Outsourcing and Service Contracts – mitigating risks and ensuring robust service level agreements.
- Intellectual Property Licensing and Assignments – safeguarding valuable IP assets.
- Confidentiality and Non-Disclosure Agreements – protecting commercially sensitive information.
FAQs on Commercial Contracts
Below are some common questions we receive regarding commercial contracts. If you have a question regarding your specific requirements, please contact a member of the DTM Legal team.
Do I need a solicitor to draft my business contracts?
Yes. While templates are widely available, they often lack the tailored provisions needed to protect your business fully. Our solicitors ensure your contracts are compliant, practical, and enforceable.
Can you review an existing contract before I sign it?
Absolutely. We regularly review draft contracts, highlighting risks, identifying areas that need clarification, and advising on negotiation strategies to safeguard your interests.
What happens if a dispute arises from a contract?
We will advise on how to ensure clarity in your contractual arrangements, but in the event of any disagreements, our Dispute Resolution Team provide proactive advice on dispute resolution, including negotiation, mediation, and where necessary litigation. Our goal is always to minimise disruption to your business and reach a practical solution.
Do you assist with contracts for international operations?
Yes. Whilst we are experts in domestic contract law, we work together with advisors in other jurisdictions and often advise on cross-border agreements to ensure compliance with international trade and regulatory requirements. Whether you are entering into supply, distribution, or joint venture arrangements within the UK or overseas, we can help draft and negotiate contracts that protect your business globally.
How often should I update my business contracts?
We recommend reviewing contracts regularly, particularly if there are changes in your business operations, partners, suppliers, or applicable regulations. Our Team can conduct periodic audits of your contractual arrangements.
Key Considerations in Commercial Contracts
When entering into any commercial agreement, it is important to consider:
- Clarity of terms – ensuring roles, obligations, and payment terms are clearly defined.
- Limitation of liability – managing financial exposure and liability caps.
- Termination rights – clearly setting out when and how an agreement can be ended.
- Dispute resolution – agreeing processes for handling disputes without damaging relationships.
- Regulatory compliance – ensuring contracts comply with relevant laws and industry regulations.
- Incorporation – understanding whether your contract terms apply or those of your customers or suppliers.
Why Choose DTM Legal?
Our Corporate & Commercial Team is recognised for delivering practical, commercially-minded solutions. We work closely with clients to understand their business and objectives, enabling us to draft and negotiate contracts that provide protection while allowing flexibility for growth.
We are experienced in advising businesses from entrepreneurs and family-run companies to larger corporates with international reach. Clients value our responsive service, clear communication, and ability to anticipate and resolve potential issues before they arise.
Contact Our Commercial Contract Law Solicitors
For expert advice on commercial and contract law, please contact Edward Barnes and our team of Corporate and Commercial solicitors by calling 01244 354 800 / 0151 321 0000 or emailing corporate@dtmlegal.com.
Corporate & Commercial Team
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Edward Barnes
Head of Corporate & Commercial
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Alison Brennan
Head of Compliance and Service Delivery
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Phil Whitehurst
Partner
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Beth Thompson
Paralegal
