Entrepreneurial Law Firm Like The Netflix of Law

A private equity investor with Lloyds Banking Group roots now owns a big chunk of a law firm that works entirely from home. Harper James, a firm with over 140 lawyers spread across the UK, sold 45% of itself to LDC. The deal is all about growth.

The new funds will buy better tech, including AI tools to speed things up. Harper James also plans to hire more top lawyers, add new services, and look for smart buys. Think of it like a legal version of a tech startup—always looking for the next big thing.

Steve Weller joins as non-executive chair. He’s been around the block with other private equity-backed legal firms, like The Barrister Group.

Toby Harper, founder and CEO, says this is a big deal for the firm’s mission. “We want legal advice to be easy and cheap for growing businesses. LDC gets our vibe and is ready to help us level up,” he says. It’s a bit like a band signing with a record label—support, cash, and a push to reach more fans.

Harper James started in 2014. Lawyers work from home, saving costs and passing the savings to clients. The firm’s net assets tripled in a year, hitting £1.44m. Revenue’s up 33 percent each year for the last three years. That’s faster than most UK law firms.

LDC has put £644m into 29 companies in ten years. It already backs The Barrister Group and Keoghs. This deal needs the green light from the Solicitors Regulation Authority.

Chris Handy from LDC says today’s businesses want legal help that fits their style. “Harper James stands out because it’s flexible, smart, and always puts people first,” he says2.

Harper James is a bit like a Netflix for legal advice—affordable, on-demand, and always ready. Its subscription plans, like the Enable plan, offer big discounts for startups and smaller businesses. Over 6,500 clients have used the firm’s services so far.

Looking ahead, Harper James wants to add more services and bring in new tech. AI tools could make legal advice even quicker and cheaper. The firm is also open to buying other legal businesses that fit its style.