Corporate law partner appointed to meet growing demand from scale-ups

Commercial law firm Harper James has appointed a new partner to meet the growing demand from scale-ups.

Lottie Hugo (pictured) joins from Freeths law firm where she was promoted to partner. She played a key role in growing the firm’s Southwest Corporate team, with her contribution recognised through a nomination for Rainmaker of the Year 2025 South West Rainmaker Awards.

Lottie joins a 16-strong corporate team at Harper James advising founders and senior leaders on transactions, investment, restructuring and governance.

Her appointment comes at a time when growth-focused SMEs are increasingly navigating complex transactions, investment activity and governance challenges as they scale.

Lottie said: “I’m really excited to be joining Harper James. It’s a real privilege to be part of a firm with such a collaborative and forward-thinking culture, and I’m looking forward to bringing my experience to a thriving team that is providing exceptional legal support to its clients.

I was drawn to Harper James’ strong reputation for doing things differently, with an innovative model that genuinely works for entrepreneurs and businesses at every stage of growth.”