Top Five Law Firms Every Sustainable Founder & Investor Should Know

The UK's sustainable innovation sector is growing fast. For startups and scaleups driving this progress, navigating the intricate legal and regulatory landscape is critical. A key part of this for early-stage companies involves using government-backed investment schemes. The firms listed below offer more than just advice, they provide the strategic legal backbone for growth and impact.

EIS & SEIS in a Nutshell

For investors and founders alike, the Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) and Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme (SEIS) are vital. These UK government schemes exist to encourage investment into small, early-stage, higher-risk private companies by offering tax breaks to investors.

• Why they exist: They help the economy grow and encourage the development and adoption of new ideas. By making it less risky for investors through tax incentives, these schemes make it more appealing to put money into new businesses that might otherwise struggle to find cash.

• What they offer:

  • For Investors: Income Tax relief, Capital Gains Tax deferral or exemption, and Inheritance Tax relief. They also offer loss relief if the investment doesn't work out.

  • For Startups/Scaleups: A strong way to get important early-stage funding from more investors, as the tax benefits can make your offer more attractive.

    
    

Dealing with the rules and paperwork for EIS/SEIS is complex, making expert legal advice essential for both companies looking for money and the investors giving it. For investors wanting to learn more about these great tax-efficient ways to invest, Sustainable Times also offers a full, free downloadable EIS Guide, ready to help you understand the details and get the most from your investment.

Firms Supporting Sustainable Investment

Here are five top UK law practices, recognised for their support to sustainability-focused startups and scaleups, especially in setting up investments and handling regulations. These UK-based, or managed, firms offer expert help to founders looking to grow in line with clear legal and ESG rules.

1. Mishcon de Reya

• Specialism: A leader in venture capital and new companies. They give full support for startups getting early money through SEIS and EIS funding, with specific know-how in setting things up and getting early approval. They also work with the Sustainable Markets Initiative (SMI) Legal Taskforce and Net Zero Lawyers Alliance, advising on wider ESG plans and related legal cases.

• Why they stand out: Their combined corporate tax and venture capital skills, plus strong ESG commitment, offer a complete approach for sustainable companies seeking tax-friendly growth money.

  

2. Eversheds Sutherland

• Specialism: Known worldwide for broad ESG advice in areas like clean energy, climate change, and sustainable finance. They also help set up relevant investments, advising on reporting rules and how ESG efforts affect funds. As a founding member of the Net Zero Lawyers Alliance, their dedication to the green shift extends to new, creative startups.

• Why they stand out: Their global reach and dedicated ESG Solutions team give smart advice on dealing with complex rules for sustainable investments, key for bigger startups with global aims.

3. Browne Jacobson

• Specialism: Offers solid legal help for startups and small to medium businesses, clearly including advice on SEIS, EIS, and employee share schemes. They guide companies through all funding stages, from early seed money to bigger rounds, making sure there are tax-friendly benefits. Their wider ESG services also help companies set up their operations to meet sustainability goals.

• Why they stand out: Their practical way of handling funding rounds, along with deep skill in tax-efficient investment schemes like EIS/SEIS, makes them a go-to for early-stage sustainable companies.

4. Ignition Law

• Specialism: A Certified B Corp, showing their real commitment to sustainable business. They give expert legal help for startups and scaleups, with great skill in SEIS and EIS investments, guiding clients through eligibility, early approval, paperwork, and following rules.

• Why they stand out: As a B Corp themselves, their practical, startup-focused advice on SEIS/EIS and dedication to sustainability really connect with founders looking to make a difference.

5. Harper James Solicitors

• Specialism: Offers full legal support for startups and investors specifically on EIS and SEIS schemes. Their corporate lawyers help with being eligible, getting early approval from HMRC, and guidance on the investment process and ongoing rules. They also give smart advice on venture capital deals.

• Why they stand out: Their clear focus on helping startups and investors with the tricky parts of EIS/SEIS, plus their efficient and practical approach, makes them very useful for sustainable companies looking for early money.

  
  

Recognising Excellence: The Sustainable Times RISE Awards

The Sustainable Times RISE Awards celebrate the key role legal firms play in speeding up the sustainable economy. We're proud to present the category for:

Best ESG or Regulatory Law Firm Honouring firms that have given excellent legal or regulatory support in setting up and carrying out EIS/SEIS or ESG investments, showing great commitment to sustainability-focused startups and scaleups.

Does your firm show this commitment to helping sustainable new ideas with legal and rule-based excellence?

Your Firm's Chance to Show Leadership

A RISE Award is more than just recognition; it's a smart way to boost your firm's standing in the fast-growing sustainable economy:

• Show Your Expertise: Prove your unmatched legal and regulatory skill in ESG and investment setup.

• Attract Key Clients: Make your firm more appealing to the growing number of sustainability-focused startups and scaleups needing expert advice.

• Be a Leader: Be recognised as a key voice at the forefront of sustainable finance law.

• Meet Key People: Connect directly with over 400 investors, founders, and industry leaders at our big awards event. This includes new, creative sustainable startups, giving great chances for future partnerships and deals.
  

Awards Ceremony Information

Join us for an evening dedicated to celebrating those leading in sustainability:

• Date: 6th November 2025

• Time:

  • 6:30 PM: Welcome Drinks

  • 7:30 PM onwards: 3-Course Dinner, Awards Presentation, and Afterparty with entertainment

• Venue: De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms, 61-65 Great Queen St, London, WC2B 5DA

We ask you to think about this unique chance to recognise your firm's contributions and make its place stronger as a leader in helping the sustainable future.

Is your firm ready to be celebrated for its great legal and regulatory support in sustainable investment? Learn more and apply for the 'Best ESG or Regulatory Firm' category on the Sustainable Times RISE Awards website.