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•March 18, 2025•

Acuity Law Represents Discover Momenta in Acquisition by Liva Healthcare

Acuity Law Represents Discover Momenta in Acquisition by Liva Healthcare

Key contact: Jon Lawley

One of the UK’s leading law firms, Acuity Law, has represented the selling shareholders of Discover Momenta and its subsidiary, Momenta Newcastle, in their acquisition by Liva Healthcare, enhancing their ability to offer treatment options for chronic diseases linked to lifestyle choices.   

Momenta provides and licenses digital, virtual and in-person healthy lifestyle programmes to National Health Service (NHS) organisations, local authorities and other third parties across the UK, to help manage long-term conditions such as obesity, Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Liva, a digital platform offering human-led interventions for chronic health problems, will expand its reach through the acquisition of Momenta. The deal consolidates Liva’s position as a global leader in therapeutic lifestyle solutions, leveraging the strengths of both companies to improve patient care, with Acuity representing the selling shareholders throughout the acquisition process.

Jon Lawley (Partner) and Joe Smith (Associate) fronted the Acuity team on behalf of the selling shareholders.

Jon Lawley at Acuity Law, said: “We’re thrilled to have used our expertise to support the selling shareholders during the acquisition by Liva. This move represents a key milestone in expanding treatment options for those with lifestyle-driven health issues, and it’s incredible to be part of something that has the potential to make a real difference in people’s lives.”

Harry MacMillan, on behalf of the selling shareholders of Discover Momenta, said: “Acuity’s expertise has been invaluable throughout this process. The opportunity to join forces with Liva is truly exciting, and we’re confident that by combining our programmes with their position as a leading provider of long-term disease care, we can better address the growing demand for treatment.”

Liva’s acquisition of Momenta follows new funding from IBL Group and existing investors to accelerate its growth plans. The deal marks a pivotal step in Liva’s efforts to scale cost-effective treatments for chronic diseases, having already helped over 80,000 patients better manage lifestyle-related conditions. Over 155,000 people have participated in Momenta’s programmes.

Headquartered in Cardiff, Acuity Law is a fast-growing law firm with over 150 lawyers supporting business clients throughout the UK. The firm’s ambitious growth strategy has seen it open offices in Birmingham, Leeds and Liverpool in recent years, adding to its presence in Bristol, London and Swansea.

Need help with an acquisition or sale? Contact our Corporate team.

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•February 11, 2025•

Acuity Law Advises MGY on a Further Acquisition in South Wales

Acuity Law Advises MGY on a Further Acquisition in South Wales

Leading UK law firm Acuity Law has acted on behalf of MGY Estate Agents & Chartered Surveyors on the acquisition of Priory Estates and Lettings, strengthening its presence across south Wales.  

With a strong foothold in Barry, MGY’s acquisition of Priory Estates reinforces its commitment to delivering comprehensive property services across Cardiff, Rhondda Cynon Taff, and the Vale of Glamorgan. Driven by a customer-centric strategy, the deal allows MGY to better meet the region’s housing needs by expanding its reach. 

Led by associate Joe Smith, supported by solicitor David Williams and partner Damien Cann on the property side, the acquisition enables MGY to broaden its housing services across the wider region, and continue to contribute to the development of sustainable communities.   

Joe Smith at Acuity Law said: “We’re delighted to have been able to use our expertise to support MGY on another acquisition. Through the expansion of its portfolio, MGY is able to better fulfil the needs of its clients and deliver an exceptional level of service across wider south Wales.” 

Michelle Bishop, director at MGY Estate Agents & Chartered Surveyors, said:  

“We are excited to announce the acquisition of Priory Estates in Barry, a well-established name in the local property market. This acquisition is a key milestone in our growth strategy, enabling us to expand our presence in the Vale of Glamorgan. By combining our strengths with the talented team at Priory Estates, we are confident that we can offer even greater value to our clients and continue to lead the way in providing exceptional service and stay at the forefront in our industry.”  

The acquisition of Priory Estates will elevate MGY’s delivery of housing services, covering residential sales and lettings, land, surveys, valuations, new homes and commercial property. The tactical step marks a key milestone in the organisation’s wider growth strategy.  

Headquartered in Cardiff, Acuity Law is a fast-growing law firm with over 150 lawyers supporting business clients throughout the UK. The firm’s ambitious growth strategy has seen it open offices in Birmingham, Leeds and Liverpool in recent years, adding to its presence in Bristol, London and Swansea.  

For help in buying or selling a company, contact our Corporate team.

•December 6, 2024•

International Men’s Day: Lunch and Learn 

Celebrating International Men’s Day with talks on emotional health, societal pressures, and vulnerability

Last week, Acuity celebrated International Men’s Day with a Lunch and Learn event focused on acknowledging men’s contributions to society, recognising positive role models, and addressing gender stereotypes. The event featured insightful talks from three men who shared their personal experiences. 

John Grant: Men’s Emotional Struggles and the Importance of Vulnerability

The first speaker, John Grant, a partner in corporate health care and life coach, summarised his ten years of experience into five key points regarding men’s emotional struggles. He highlighted how men often find it difficult to express, suppress, or repress their emotions – sometimes even running away from them. Grant emphasised that suppressing emotions can have serious health consequences, such as heart attacks. Instead, he advocated for allowing oneself to feel emotions, a process that takes time and practice.

He also discussed the importance of not taking life personally, suggesting that individuals can choose how to respond to challenges. He stressed that appreciating emotions and practicing gratitude, can help with mindset and perspective. Furthermore, he encouraged letting go of past guilt and future worries, as they often only affect the present moment. 

Jon Lawley: Breaking Societal Expectations and Defining Success

The second speaker, Jon Lawley, partner, discussed the societal pressures men face, particularly the expectation to be strong and physically powerful. He noted that this societal norm has led to issues like mental health struggles, including depression and suicide, as men often feel they cannot express vulnerability. Lawley emphasised the importance of creating a support network where men can openly discuss their emotions.

He also discussed the challenge of defining success based on personal values rather than societal expectations, and for men to align their actions with their values and not just on accomplishments. Lawley further encouraged men to embrace leadership through vulnerability, and to form intentional, supportive friendships. He concluded by asserting that men can be more than just strong – they can be wise, compassionate, and authentically themselves. 

Chris Flynn: The Link Between Physical Health and Mental Well-being

The third speaker, Chris Flynn, co-founder and head coach at The Green Mile Training Camp, explored the physical aspects of mental and emotional health. With a background in the Army and a deep sense of brotherhood, Chris shared his personal experience of losing six men to suicide by the age of 33. His training camp, which collaborates with teams like the Welsh Rugby squads, focuses on optimising health and performance.

He highlighted the significance of functional breathing and its profound effects on every cell and system in the body. Chris led an exercise to demonstrate that many UK adults breathe improperly, which impacts focus and attention. After practicing proper breathing techniques, the audience experienced a noticeable sense of calm, underscoring the vital role of breathing in mental well-being. 

Thanks to Alex Cater for chairing the event.

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•November 7, 2024•

Acuity Law advises Do-It Solutions on acquisition by Lexxic

Acuity Law advises Do-It Solutions on acquisition by Lexxic

Acuity Law has advised the shareholders of Do-It Solutions, a global market leader in neurodiverse screening and assessments, on its acquisition by Lexxic, a specialist in workplace neurodiversity assessment, training and accreditation services.

This deal between Cardiff-based Do-It Solutions and Lexxic is the latest high-profile deal for the leading commercial law firm.

Do-IT was founded by Professor Amanda Kirby and is an internationally recognised tech-for-good company that has created highly effective web-based tools, supported by training and consultancy services, to deliver market-leading solutions across a wide and expanding range of sectors including corporate, justice and education.

The acquisition will enable Lexxic, a portfolio company of Agathos Management LLP, to expand its client offering by providing an end-to-end service, incorporating Do-It Solutions’ innovative tech-led approach.

Andrew McGlashan, Corporate Partner at Acuity Law, said: “Amanda and the team at Do-It Solutions have created something really special and we wanted this deal to reflect that. We have spent the last 18 months working closely with the shareholders to ensure that their objectives were met and that they were satisfied with the final outcome.”

Professor Amanda Kirby said: “The Acuity team has provided us with invaluable advice throughout this process. We are incredibly proud of all that we’ve achieved at Do-It Solutions and wanted to ensure that going forward our legacy continues with this exciting union with Lexxic.

“By combining Lexxic and Do-It Solutions’ expertise, we hope that the organisation can be a global leader in neurodiversity solutions, setting new standards for workplace inclusion, fostering supportive and productive environments for neurodiverse individuals.”

Headquartered in Cardiff, Acuity Law is a fast-growing law firm with over 150 lawyers supporting business clients throughout the UK. The firm’s ambitious growth strategy has seen it open offices in Birmingham, Leeds and Liverpool in recent years, adding to its presence in Bristol, London and Swansea.

•November 6, 2024•

Black History Month at Acuity: A Talk with Christian Roberts

Black History Month at Acuity: A Talk with Christian Roberts

“Learning about racism can be like walking on eggshells. But the more you do it and put yourself out there, the better the results.” Christian Roberts

Last week, we were fortunate to welcome former Cardiff City footballer Christian Roberts to speak to members of our firm in honour of Black History Month.

Christian is best known for his time as a forward with Cardiff City. He began his career in his hometown, joining Cardiff City’s youth academy, where he quickly stood out with his pace, technical skill, and goal-scoring ability. He made his senior debut for Cardiff in the late 1990s, and though his time at the club was relatively short, it left a lasting impact on fans who admired his dynamic and direct playing style. Throughout his career, which included stints with Exeter City, Bristol City, and Swindon Town, Christian established himself as a passionate and dedicated player.

However, Christian’s contributions extend far beyond the football field. In recent years, he has used his platform to combat racism and promote equality in football and beyond through his work with Show Racism the Red Card and other organisations. Drawing on both personal and professional experiences, he has become an advocate for creating inclusive environments within sports, speaking out against discrimination, and encouraging conversations around social justice.

Christian’s talk at Acuity was rich with wisdom and marked by his unflinching support of honesty and candour when working to combat racism, even though this can be daunting.

He said: “Racism is a big, taboo word. But my philosophy is if we don’t talk about it, how are we going to move forward? Talking about racism is like riding a bike. The more you do it, the better and more confident you become. We need to create spaces like this, where we walk through that door, and the gloves are off. Honesty provides a space to challenge these subconscious feelings. If don’t create these environments, how are we going to create a safe, brave space?”

Christian was vocal about his belief in the need to do more, both in sport and society, to combat racism. This can be done, he said, not only institutionally, but through the power of relationship building:

“Before anything gets worked on, you need to develop trust with the person you’re working with. Only when the trust is there will a change or a difference be made. The more you build a relationship, the level of challenge in the questions changes. You can start to explore deep within and that’s where the work is done.”

He added: “In sports clubs, like in any workplace, sometimes it takes a long time to build that engagement.”

The audience at Acuity Law was inspired by Christian’s bravery in calling out a lack of courage in sport to meaningfully tackle racist behaviours, combined with his level of pragmatism and empathy: “If someone is showing racist behaviours, I don’t think the right thing is to throw them away,” he said.

We learned a huge amount about the power of communication through Christian’s wide-ranging work to change not only the world of sport but wider society. Our team members were also inspired to be bold in building understanding and trust as a foundation for a fairer world.

•October 8, 2024•

Acuity Law relocates growing Swansea practice to the heart of the city’s business district

Acuity Law relocates growing Swansea practice to the heart of the city’s business district  

Leading South Wales-headquartered law firm Acuity Law has announced the relocation of its Swansea office. 

Hopping across the water from the historic Exchange Building on Cambrian Place to the thoroughly modern Ethos on King’s Road, the move sees Acuity Law deepening its connections to Swansea’s thriving business hub. 

Ethos is a striking, glass-fronted building in the heart of Swansea’s business community, with a prominent position on the waterfront, on the edge of Swansea City Centre. The new location reflects Acuity’s increasing centrality to the Swansea commercial marketplace and ambitions to showcase the notable work the firm is doing for Swansea-based clients.  

The office houses an impressive meeting space that maximises the building’s waterfront location, as well as generous open-plan office space to accommodate both senior and junior colleagues, and on-site café facilities.  

Hugh Hitchcock, the lead Acuity partner in the Swansea office said: 

“Swansea is absolutely key to our growth in Wales. Having worked in the area for the best part of 20 years, I know first-hand what a growing and thriving community full of strong, dynamic businesses it is. I’m excited by the expansion in the team and the opportunities for us as a law firm to further assist our commercial clients, but also by the general growth in the local economy.” 

He added: “As we expand with the move to Ethos, alongside the quality and experience of the talented lawyers in the team, I genuinely believe we can provide a service to rival that of any of the larger firms across the UK. That is best exemplified by the complex and high-profile work we are already undertaking.” 

Nick Founds from Glanmor Chartered Surveyors adds: “Ethos is a prestigious riverside office development, and it is a great new home for Acuity Law. Ethos now has 100% occupancy and this recent letting showcases the continued high demand for grade A office space in prime Swansea locations.” 

Acuity Law established its Swansea presence in 2017, with the arrival of Carmarthen-born Hugh Hitchcock, who came up through the litigation ranks at a London-based media firm representing celebrity and household-name clients. Most recently, Hugh was named as one of The Lawyer’s 2024 “Hot 100”.   

The new office in Swansea is the latest in a string of announcements from Acuity Law, which has bases in Cardiff, Bristol, Birmingham, London, Leeds and Liverpool, as well as Swansea.

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•September 25, 2024•

Spotlight on… Janice Powell

Got a probate issue? Meet Acuity Law Contentious Probate Litigation Partner and ACTAPS member Janice Powell.

Did you always want to be a lawyer?

Janice Powell (JP): I have always had a very strong sense of righting injustice. I’m from a working-class background and my father was persuaded to leave the Fire Service by a builder friend who promised him 50% of the proceeds of a house-building business. In the end, my dad received nothing for his work as a builder and couldn’t afford to instruct a solicitor to pursue his claims. My father was dealt an injustice, and that inspired me to help people in the future. Plus, I do love a good argument!

How did you end up as a contentious probate specialist?

JP: I trained and qualified in London and moved to Russell Jones & Walker (now Slater & Gordon). I was initially a commercial litigator – dealing with libel and copyright claims, property litigation and professional negligence. I first became a Partner when I was 30 and appointed Head of Property Litigation at RJW.

After I had my second child, I decided to return to Wales, where I grew up. I was offered a package to stay with my London-based practice, but eventually moved to the Eversheds Property Litigation Team. I spent nearly a decade there before moving to Thomas Simon, which became Gordon Dadds and then Ince.

Thomas Simon had a large will bank, which resulted in my move into specializing in Contentious Probate work. I really enjoyed it, because it appealed to my sense of righting injustice. Back then, I was typically acting for women who had raised a family, whilst their husbands income and wealth was in the husband’s estate. I wanted to make sure that those women, who had contributed so much to the marriage and family, received their justice. I also acted for same sex couples in 1975 Act Claims before the law changed and protected their rights.

What qualities do you need to be a successful probate litigator?

JP: When I am consulted, my clients are grief stricken. To exacerbate this, they are also angry and upset concerning the dispositions of their loved ones estate, either by the contents of the will, or the intestacy rules. They need a lawyer and team who are empathetic, sensitive and understanding – you’re not just a lawyer, you’re their counsellor, supporter and confidant, not least because you have to really dig into their lives and provide rational advice in circumstances where they are often acting in an irrational manner due to heightened emotions. We see the whole of humanity and they have to feel comfortable telling us about the skeletons in their closet – so you also need a good poker face!

What should people know about contentious probate that they often don’t?

JP: Understandably, people don’t want to contemplate their mortality and often don’t prepare a will, or if they do, they fail to discuss their wishes and ramifications after they die. Further, the impact of the intestacy rules can significantly impair the provision they intended to make, but the lack of a will frustrates their expressed wishes to loved ones. The result is that the legal costs incurred, which will ultimately deplete the value of the estate, could easily run exceed £100k if a case goes to trial. Happily, most of my cases settle at mediation which provides a forum for a holistic settlement than that which a court can order.

Contentious Probate is a growing field. Society has changed and there are more blended families (with more children) and more couples favoring cohabitation. If they don’t make a will, issues can arise. Couples often don’t realise that being in a common law relationship (unmarried but living together) doesn’t entitle the surviving partner to inherit.

To add to that, there is a growing income gap between generations – elderly people are often cash poor but asset rich, whilst younger people often struggle to buy a house. Elderly people can sometimes be serial will changers and use their wealth and promises of inheritance to ensure care in the later years of their life.  Further, younger people are likely to bring claims, especially because if they have no assets, they have nothing to enforce a costs order against and therefore nothing to lose. We see more nuisance claims for that reason, and it can be more cost-proportionate to pay a settlement figure than fight a claim. Equally, we also see manipulative partners continuing to control their family beyond the grave by leaving an unjust will.   

Lastly, many people are naïve in terms of legal matters and don’t use solicitors, for example, to transfer land legally or record the terms of oral agreements. We often act in farming disputes where claims of proprietary estoppel are brought for this reason.  

What have been your career highlights?

JP: I worked for a lady with health issues who had been manipulated and coerced and was enduring a difficult relationship with her partners son, after the death of her partner who had failed to leave a will. She became suicidal. I was able to negotiate a settlement with the stepson which ensured she kept her house and had enough income and capital to get her life back. As a result, I saw her blossom into living and loving her life again. I love to feel I have helped turn someone’s life around, and do what I set out to do at the start of my career: ie to correct injustice.

How has the profession changed over the course of your career?

JP: Attitudes towards female solicitors have changed enormously.

When I was a trainee, that firm made women wear skirts and high heels. The other trainees and I decided to stage a protest, and we all turned up in smart trouser suits. The office manager gave us an ultimatum – go home and change or be sacked on the spot. We had no choice but to comply.

When I was on maternity leave, I was frequently required to attend meetings and bring my baby with me whilst I was breastfeeding.

Technology has changed the way we work and has given much more flexible working practices.

If you hadn’t become a lawyer, what would you have been instead?

JP: I was always interested in pursuing a career in psychology. It’s so important to understand a person’s motivations and the psychology behind their behavior when you’re negotiating a settlement – they’re not always what they say they are, and people are very driven by emotions.

But I’d also love to have been a salsa dancer or work on a tropical beach!

Do you have any advice for your younger self?

JP: Believe in yourself and trust your instincts. Be resilient and don’t be afraid to start again. Don’t take any rubbish from anyone!

Maintain your hobbies and your passion projects – be a well-rounded, kind person. Don’t be afraid to find the fun in every day!

If you need help with contentious probate matters, reach out to Janice and our Probate litigation team.

•September 16, 2024•

Acuity Law launches My Digital Lawyer – a legal tech platform for businesses

Acuity Law launches My Digital Lawyer – a legal tech platform for businesses

Acuity Law has announced the launch of My Digital Lawyer, a brand-new legal tech platform for businesses aimed at saving them time and money. 

My Digital Lawyer provides a range of digital tools and services, including cutting-edge automated document builder Document Assist, an extensive bank of legal know-how, and a growing library of exclusive articles and content.  

“My Digital Lawyer will save our business clients time and money,” explains Acuity Law’s Managing Partner Claire Knowles.  

“Using our custom-built tools, they can handle many legal tasks themselves, building their own contracts and basic documentation with Document Assist, or using our jargon-free Knowledge Bank guides to put together policies and compliance processes. 

“Fundamentally, we want to help businesses improve efficiencies. But we’ve also got them covered for when they need specialist help or the reassurance of in-person advice – because My Digital Lawyer subscribers also benefit from direct access to specialist legal advice within the terms of their subscription.”  

Uniquely among law firms, some of which offer client portals for document-sharing and communication, Acuity Law’s My Digital Lawyer is available to all businesses; not simply Acuity clients.   

The platform delivers all that a client portal would – allowing clients to track their live matters and tasks – while also allowing non-client subscribers access to market-leading guidance and digital tools.  

“We are confident that no other law firm can offer the 360-degree digital support that My Digital Lawyer provides,” says Claire. 

“At the same time, no legal tech platform can offer the expert lawyer-led wraparound in-person support and added reassurance of My Digital Lawyer.” 

The platform has been developed entirely in-house at Acuity Law, using the firm own development team and branding specialists.   

“We are proud of the in-house teams we have developed at Acuity Law,” says Acuity Law Chairman Steve Berry. “We are committed to driving legal services forward and providing innovation-led services to both our clients and the wider business community. My Digital Lawyer subscribers can expect further tools and services in the months ahead, as Acuity Law further grows and develops the platform. So watch this space!”     

Headquartered in Cardiff, Acuity Law is a fast-growing law firm with over 150 lawyers supporting business clients throughout the UK. The firm’s ambitious growth strategy has seen it open offices in Birmingham, Leeds and Liverpool in recent years, adding to its presence in Bristol, London and Swansea.    

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•September 10, 2024•

Acuity Law Advises AIM Listed Facilities by ADF PLC on its Latest Acquisition and Placing

Acuity Law Advises AIM Listed Facilities by ADF PLC on its Latest Acquisition and Placing

Acuity Law has advised Facilities by ADF plc (ADF) on its acquisition of Autotrak Portable Roadways Ltd (Autotrak) for up to £21.3 million (acquisition) and its associated fundraising which raised gross proceeds for ADF of £10 million (the placing) and sell down by certain existing shareholders.

ADF is the leading provider of premium serviced production facilities to the UK film and high-end television industry (HETV). Its acquisition of Autotrak, one of the market-leading suppliers of portable roadway panels to the film and TV sector in the UK, is the next step in the delivery of ADF’s vision to be a one-stop shop for film and HETV production, operating across multiple businesses and run by talented local management. 

The placing, which was carried out by way of an accelerated bookbuild and retail offer through Cavendish Capital Markets Limited, was run alongside the acquisition process to raise funds for ADF to part fund the consideration payable pursuant to the acquisition. The placing was one of the largest fundraises carried out on the AIM Market this calendar year to date.

The Acuity team comprised corporate partners Beverley Jones and Andrew McGlashan, Property team partner Steve Morris and they were assisted by Chiara Howfield, Shawnee Evans, Swyn Llyr and Carys Griffith. Acuity partner Beverley Jones who led the team on the transaction said:

“We are delighted to have supported ADF in this latest strategic acquisition and look forward to seeing how this enhanced partnership contributes to the future growth and success of both companies.”

ADF CEO Marsden Proctor said:

“We are delighted to complete the acquisition of Autotrak, which marks a material step in our stated strategy of being the provider of choice for the HETV & film industry across a diversified product and service offering. We had the pleasure of working with the Acuity Law team who once again provided a superb service, and we couldn’t be more satisfied with the experience.”

ADF is an established client of Acuity, which advised on its 2022 acquisition of Location One, the UK’s largest integrated TV and film location service and equipment hire company.

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•July 29, 2024•

Acuity Law Advises As MGY Estate Agents & Chartered Surveyors Acquires Seabreeze Homes

Acuity Law Advises As MGY Estate Agents & Chartered Surveyors Acquires Seabreeze Homes

Acuity Law has once more demonstrated its commitment to the Welsh property market, acting for Cardiff-based MGY Estate Agents & Chartered Surveyors in its purchase of Seabreeze Homes.

MGY, which offers services across Cardiff, Rhondda Cynon Taff, Penarth and the Vale of Glamorgan, acquired multi-award-winning estate agency Seabreeze, also active across Penarth and the Vale.

The acquisition showcases the vibrancy of Cardiff’s property market, and underlines Acuity Law’s prominent role on the corporate and real estate landscape across Wales.

The Acuity team comprised Jon Lawley and Joe Smith from the Corporate team and Damien Cann from the Property team. Acuity partner Jon Lawley said:

“We were delighted to represent leading estate agency and surveying firm MGY in its landmark deal. We look forward to supporting MGY as it continues to grow its footprint across South Wales.”

MGY Director James Thomas said:

“We are thrilled to announce the exciting news of our expansion into Penarth, and we look forward to the new opportunities it brings. We had the pleasure of working with Joe Smith, Jon Lawley and Damien Cann of Acuity Law who once again provided a superb service, and we couldn’t be more satisfied with the experience.”

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