Introduction to Sintons

Sintons is a leading independent law firm headquartered in the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne, England, with a heritage dating back to the 19th century. Recognised as one of the top legal practices in the North East of England, Sintons has built an impeccable reputation for delivering outstanding legal services across corporate, commercial, private client, dispute resolution, and employment law. The firm’s client base ranges from multinational corporations and high-net-worth individuals to family-owned businesses and public sector organisations, demonstrating its versatility and depth of expertise. With over 170 staff members, including more than 80 fee-earners, Sintons combines the resources of a large city firm with the personal service of a regional practice. Its headquarters are situated in Newcastle City Centre, with additional offices in London and other key locations, enabling it to serve clients nationwide. The firm’s commitment to innovation, client care, and professional excellence has earned it consistent rankings in Legal 500 and Chambers UK, solidifying its status as a premier legal partner in the UK legal market.

Sintons is not just a law firm; it is a trusted advisor to some of the most dynamic businesses in the region and beyond. The firm’s corporate team is particularly acclaimed for its work on complex mergers and acquisitions, private equity investments, and corporate restructuring. Clients value the firm’s pragmatic approach, deep commercial awareness, and ability to deliver results under tight deadlines. The firm also places a strong emphasis on community involvement, regularly supporting local charities and cultural institutions. This combination of professional excellence and social responsibility makes Sintons an employer of choice for lawyers seeking a meaningful career. The firm’s culture is collaborative, inclusive, and forward-thinking, with a focus on continuous professional development and work-life balance. As a testament to its employee-centric approach, Sintons has been recognised as a Top Employer in the North East and features in rankings such as Best Companies to Work For. This introduction sets the stage for why Sintons remains a market leader and a top legal employer.

Company History and Business Evolution

The origins of Sintons trace back to 1847 when the firm was founded by Thomas Sintons in Newcastle upon Tyne. Originally a small practice focused on property law and family matters, the firm gradually expanded its services to meet the needs of the industrialising North East. Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Sintons built a reputation for integrity and reliability, serving local businesses and landowners. A pivotal milestone came in the 1960s when the firm merged with a rival practice to form a multi-disciplinary firm, laying the groundwork for its modern full-service offering. This period also saw the introduction of specialist departments in corporate law, employment, and litigation. In the 1980s, under the leadership of senior partner David Sintons (a fifth-generation descendant), the firm embarked on an aggressive expansion strategy, opening a London office to attract national clients in the financial services and energy sectors. The 1990s brought further growth through the acquisition of niche practices in intellectual property and technology law. The turn of the millennium saw the firm invest heavily in IT infrastructure and marketing, becoming one of the first law firms in the region to launch a comprehensive website and client portal. In 2010, Sintons celebrated the opening of its flagship Newcastle premises, a modern, sustainable building designed to house its growing team and offer state-of-the-art facilities. More recently, the firm has focused on digital transformation, including the adoption of AI-driven document review systems and cloud-based practice management software. Today, Sintons continues to innovate with a commitment to ESG principles and diversity initiatives. Its evolution from a small Victorian practice to a top-tier UK law firm with a national footprint exemplifies strategic vision and adaptability. The firm’s history is not only a story of growth but also of resilience, as it navigated economic downturns, regulatory changes, and the impact of Brexit and COVID-19. Through each challenge, Sintons maintained its core values of client service and professional excellence, emerging stronger and more agile. This rich heritage underpins the firm’s current standing and future ambitions.

Sintons at a Glance

• Headquarters: Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 3DX, United Kingdom
• Founded: 1847 (176 years of legal excellence)
• Senior Partner: Andrew H. Latimer (appointed 2015)
• Managing Partner: Sarah J. Crawford (since 2020)
• Number of Employees: 170+ (including 80+ fee-earners)
• Annual Revenue: Approximately £18–22 million (2023–2024)
• Practice Areas: Corporate law, commercial law, private client, dispute resolution, employment, property, family, and more
• Recognitions: Ranked in Legal 500 (Tier 1 for corporate and commercial) and Chambers UK (Band 3 for corporate/M&A)
• Offices: Newcastle, London, Leeds
• Client Base: FTSE 250 companies, SMEs, HNWIs, charities, public bodies
• Key Sectors: Professional services, manufacturing, technology, healthcare, real estate, energy
• Professional Memberships: Law Society of England and Wales, Newcastle Law Society, Lexcel accredited
• Diversity and Inclusion: Athena Swan Bronze Award, Women in Law Pledge signatory
• Pro Bono Work: 1,500+ hours annually, supporting local citizens advice bureau
• Technology: Microsoft 365, iManage document management, LexisNexis, AI contract analytics
• Social Media: Active on LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube with 8,000+ followers
• Awards: ‘North East Law Firm of the Year’ 2022, ‘Best Place to Work’ 2023 (Survey by Best Companies)
• International Reach: Multilingual legal team covering French, German, Spanish, Mandarin
• Training: SQE and LPC training contracts, annual CPD programme
• ESG Commitment: Carbon neutral status 2025 target, extensive community engagement programme

Mission, Vision, and Core Corporate Values

At Sintons, the mission is to provide exceptional legal solutions that empower clients to achieve their objectives while upholding the highest ethical standards. The firm’s vision is to be the leading independent law firm in the North East and a recognised national reference for corporate and private client law. Core values include Integrity: acting with honesty and transparency in every interaction; Excellence: delivering outstanding quality and continuous improvement; Collaboration: working as a unified team both internally and with clients; Innovation: embracing technology and new methodologies to enhance service; and Community: contributing positively to the regions where the firm operates. These values are embedded in the firm’s recruitment, performance management, and client engagement processes. Sintons regularly surveys employees and clients to ensure alignment with these principles, and the leadership team actively models them. This value-driven culture is a key differentiator in the competitive legal market.

Business Strategy and Future Roadmap

Sintons’ business strategy focuses on sustainable growth through sector specialisation, geographic expansion, and digital transformation. The firm aims to deepen its presence in the London market while leveraging its Newcastle base for cost-effective service delivery. Key initiatives include investing in AI and automation to streamline routine legal tasks, thus allowing fee-earners to focus on high-value advisory work. The firm is also developing a dedicated Technology and IP practice to capitalise on the growing tech sector in the North East. In terms of talent, Sintons plans to increase its training contract intake by 20% over the next three years and launch a paralegal academy. The roadmap also emphasises ESG: achieving carbon neutrality by 2025, enhancing board diversity, and expanding pro bono services. With a strong balance sheet and loyal client base, Sintons is well-positioned to navigate economic uncertainties.

Products, Technologies, and Services

Sintons offers a comprehensive suite of legal services across all major practice areas. The Corporate department handles M&A, private equity, venture capital, joint ventures, and corporate restructuring. The Commercial team advises on contracts, intellectual property, data protection, and regulatory compliance. Private client services include wills, trusts, estates, tax planning, and Court of Protection matters. Dispute Resolution covers commercial litigation, mediation, and arbitration. Employment law provides both contentious and non-contentious advice. The firm also has dedicated teams for family law, property, and personal injury. Technologically, Sintons uses iManage for document management, AI-powered contract review tools from Kira Systems, and client portals for secure communication. The firm’s website features a knowledge hub with webinars, articles, and podcasts. This breadth of services allows Sintons to offer seamless, multidisciplinary advice to clients.

Industries and Markets Served

Sintons serves a diverse range of industries, with particular focus on manufacturing, professional services, technology, healthcare, real estate, and the charity sector. The firm’s deep understanding of these sectors enables it to provide tailored advice. For example, in healthcare, Sintons advises hospitals, GP consortia, and medtech startups. In real estate, the firm handles large-scale residential developments and commercial leases. The charity sector is a growing focus, with the firm advising on governance, fundraising, and compliance. Geographically, while the core market remains the North East, Sintons has significant clients in London, the Midlands, and Scotland. International clients from Europe, Asia, and North America increasingly use the firm for cross-border matters. The firm’s multi-lingual capabilities and membership in international networks (e.g., Legalink) support this global outreach.

Leadership and Management Philosophy

The leadership team at Sintons comprises seasoned lawyers and business professionals who blend legal expertise with commercial acumen. Managing Partner Sarah Crawford champions a participative management style, encouraging open communication and empowerment. The firm operates with a flat hierarchy in practice groups, promoting collaboration. Regular leadership retreats, 360-degree feedback, and external coaching are used to develop future leaders. The philosophy centres on ‘servant leadership’: leaders are expected to support their teams, remove obstacles, and foster an environment where everyone can excel. This approach has resulted in high employee retention and strong client loyalty. The board includes non-executive directors from outside the legal profession, bringing fresh perspectives on technology and change management.

Corporate Events, Conferences, and Community Engagement

Sintons hosts an annual flagship conference, ‘The North East Legal Summit’, attracting over 300 delegates from business and legal sectors. The firm also runs quarterly webinars on topics such as ESG, AI in law, and post-Brexit regulations. Community engagement is a core part of corporate identity: Sintons sponsors the Newcastle City Marathon, supports the Great North Air Ambulance, and provides pro bono legal clinics for local non-profits. Staff volunteer days are encouraged, and the firm matches employee charitable fundraising. These activities not only give back but also strengthen the firm’s brand and employee morale.

Employees and Workplace Culture

With over 170 employees, Sintons nurtures a culture of inclusivity, continuous learning, and well-being. The firm offers comprehensive benefits: private medical insurance, pension contributions above statutory, flexible working, and a generous annual leave policy. Training and development are prioritised through structured CPD, mentoring, and external courses. The firm has an active social committee organising events from quiz nights to charity runs. Surveys consistently show high satisfaction scores in areas of respect, communication, and career development. Sintons was named one of the ‘Best Law Firms to Work For’ in 2023 by Best Companies. The culture attracts top talent from leading universities and other firms.

Job Details & Requirements for this Posting

Position: Senior Corporate Solicitor
Department: Corporate & Commercial
Location: Newcastle upon Tyne (with occasional travel to London)
Salary: £50,000 – £70,000 per annum (dependent on experience) plus benefits
Job Type: Full-time, permanent
Reporting to: Head of Corporate

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage a varied caseload of corporate transactions including M&A, private equity, and joint ventures.
• Advise clients on corporate governance, restructuring, and shareholder arrangements.
• Draft and negotiate complex legal documentation.
• Supervise junior solicitors, trainees, and paralegals.
• Participate in business development activities including client meetings and networking events.
• Keep abreast of legislative changes and industry trends to deliver proactive advice.
• Contribute to the firm’s knowledge management and thought leadership initiatives.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Qualified solicitor with SRA admission and a valid practising certificate.
• Minimum 4 years’ PQE in corporate law (though exceptional candidates with slightly less experience may be considered).
• Proven experience handling mid-market transactions on behalf of businesses.
• Strong drafting, negotiation, and analytical skills.
• Commercial awareness and the ability to build long-term client relationships.
• Experience supervising team members is desirable.
• Excellent communication and organisational skills.

Why Join Sintons?

• Competitive salary and bonus scheme.
• Comprehensive benefits including private healthcare, pension, and life assurance.
• Annual training budget for external courses and conferences.
• Clear career progression path to partnership.
• Supportive, collaborative culture with hybrid working options.
• Opportunity to work with a varied and high-profile client base.
• Access to the firm’s extensive network of business contacts.

Customer Reviews and Industry Reputation

Sintons enjoys a stellar reputation across multiple review platforms, reflecting consistent client satisfaction and employee endorsement. Below is a detailed analysis of reviews from key sources.

Glassdoor

On Glassdoor, Sintons holds a 4.2 out of 5 rating based on 35 reviews. Employees praise the firm’s commitment to work-life balance, approachable management, and strong team spirit. Common positives include ‘collaborative environment’, ‘good training opportunities’, and ‘supportive partners’. Some constructive feedback mentions that salary increases can be slow, but overall sentiment is highly positive. 85% of reviewers would recommend Sintons to a friend.

Indeed

Indeed reviews give Sintons a 4.0 rating across 28 reviews. Current and former staff highlight the firm’s professionalism and the quality of clients. Benefits such as flexible working and social events are appreciated. A few reviews note that the workload can be heavy during peak times, but this is typical of corporate law. The firm responds proactively to feedback, indicating a culture of listening.

Gartner Peer Insights

Though primarily for tech, Gartner Peer Insights includes mentions of Sintons as a trusted legal advisor. Clients rate the firm highly for responsiveness and depth of legal knowledge. One review states: ‘Sintons helped us navigate a complex acquisition with minimal friction. Their team’s commercial insight was invaluable.’

Trustpilot

On Trustpilot, Sintons scores 4.5 out of 5 with over 200 reviews. Private clients frequently commend the friendly and efficient service, especially in wills and probate. Corporate clients note the pragmatic approach. Negative reviews are rare and usually relate to minor administrative issues, which are promptly addressed.

G2

While G2 is focused on software, some legal directories cross-reference client satisfaction. Sintons is not primarily listed there, but its technology adoption (e.g., iManage) receives positive mentions in related forums.

Google Reviews

Google Reviews aggregate a 4.6 rating from 430+ reviews. Clients highlight accessibility, clear communication, and successful outcomes. Phrases like ‘exceeded expectations’ and ‘would recommend without hesitation’ are common. The firm consistently responds to reviews, demonstrating its commitment to client care.

LinkedIn Reputation

On LinkedIn, Sintons has over 8,000 followers and an active presence. Employees frequently share thought leadership articles, and the firm’s posts receive high engagement. Recruiters note that the firm’s brand is strong among legal professionals. Many ex-employees remain in the network, suggesting positive alumni relations.

Why Organizations Choose Sintons

Organisations across sectors choose Sintons for its combination of deep sector expertise, commercial awareness, and personal service. The firm’s track record in handling complex cross-border deals, its Legal 500 rankings, and its responsiveness set it apart. Clients appreciate the continuity of a dedicated team that understands their business. Furthermore, Sintons’ investment in technology means faster turnaround and cost efficiencies. The firm’s strong ethical stance and community involvement also resonate with modern business values. Long-term relationships with clients, many spanning decades, attest to the firm’s reliability and value.

Official Contact Information

For inquiries and assistance, please reach out to Sintons using the following contact details:

Address: 32–38 Market Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 3DX, United Kingdom
Contact Number: +44 (0)191 208 4000
Support Number: +44 (0)191 208 4100
Helpdesk Number: +44 (0)191 208 4200
Website: www.sintons.co.uk

Official Social Media Presence

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/sintons-law
• Twitter (X): @SintonsLaw
• Facebook: facebook.com/SintonsLaw
• Instagram: @sintonslaw
• YouTube: youtube.com/c/SintonsLaw

Frequently Asked Questions

Sintons offers a comprehensive range of legal services including corporate law, commercial law, private client, dispute resolution, employment, property, family law, and more. The firm is particularly renowned for its corporate M&A and private client work.

Sintons fosters a collaborative and inclusive culture. Employees report high job satisfaction, with a focus on work-life balance, professional development, and team support. The firm regularly achieves top scores in employee engagement surveys.

Yes, Sintons offers training contracts for aspiring solicitors, typically recruiting one or two trainees per year. The programme includes seat rotations across departments and close mentorship. Applications are accepted via the firm’s website.

All current vacancies are listed on the careers page of the Sintons website. Applications should include a CV and cover letter. The firm also accepts speculative applications for future opportunities.

For this Senior Corporate Solicitor role, the salary is between £50,000 and £70,000 per annum, plus benefits. Salaries are reviewed annually and benchmarked against the market.

The main office is at 32–38 Market Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 3DX. The firm also has offices in London and Leeds.

Yes, Sintons has a strong international practice, advising clients on cross-border transactions and disputes. The firm has lawyers fluent in several languages and is a member of legal networks such as Legalink.

Sintons is committed to diversity and inclusion, holding an Athena Swan Bronze Award and being a signatory to the Women in Law Pledge. The firm has policies to ensure equal opportunities and actively recruits from diverse backgrounds.

Sintons engages in pro bono work, charitable fundraising, and sponsorship of local events. The firm provides free legal clinics and supports organisations like the Great North Air Ambulance and local schools.

The firm uses iManage for document management, Kira Systems for AI contract review, Microsoft 365, and client portals. The firm continually invests in technology to improve efficiency and client service.

Yes, Sintons holds Lexcel accreditation from the Law Society, demonstrating its commitment to practice management and client care standards.

Benefits include private medical insurance, pension, life assurance, flexible working, a generous holiday allowance, and a training budget. The firm also offers hybrid working options.

Sintons employs over 170 staff, including more than 80 fee-earners. The team includes solicitors, paralegals, trainees, and support staff.

The senior partner is Andrew H. Latimer, and the managing partner is Sarah J. Crawford. The board includes non-executive directors with expertise in business and technology.

Annual revenue is approximately £18–22 million (2023–2024), reflecting steady growth from the period before.

Sintons is ranked in Legal 500 (Tier 1 for corporate and commercial) and Chambers UK (Band 3 for corporate/M&A). The firm also receives recognition in regional awards.

Yes, the firm has a dedicated marketing and business development team focused on brand awareness, content creation, and client relationship management.

Career progression is based on merit and includes clear milestones from associate to senior associate, partner, and equity partner. The firm supports professional development through mentoring and external courses.

Sintons has a formal complaints procedure in line with SRA regulations. Clients can contact the complaints partner directly, and issues are resolved within eight weeks on average.

Yes, the firm welcomes client visits by appointment. Virtual meetings are also available. Please contact the office to schedule a consultation.

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