Business advisory firm Dow Schofield Watts (DSW) is launching its own challenger legal platform, DSW Legal, a new dedicated division led by managing director James Mallender. The Daresbury-based group first entered the legal market with the acquisition of Guildford-headquartered DR Solicitors in 2024.
Challenger Platform for Ambitious Lawyers
James Mallender described DSW Legal as a true challenger platform, aiming to attract lawyers looking to set up their own businesses rather than joining traditional partnerships. He qualified as a real estate lawyer with SJ Berwin before moving to international firm Womble Bond Dickinson, becoming a partner in 2008. In 2012, he left the traditional partnership model to help grow legal start-up The Legal Director, where he ran its recruitment function alongside developing its strategy. By 2025, that business had grown to a team of more than 50 lawyers and turned over some £7 million a year.
Growth of DR Solicitors
Guildford’s DR Solicitors focuses on the medical profession, with consultants acting on a flexible basis for people including GPs and dentists. DSW says that since it acquired DR Solicitors, the business has added 10 consultants, with revenues rising 11%.
Mr Mallender said: “Having built my career on both sides of the legal profession, I’ve seen first-hand how ambitious professionals are increasingly looking to alternative models to take control of their career. DR Solicitors has already proven itself as a model that can stand up against traditional models, providing the flexibility and control many look for, so the opportunity to expand this track record across DSW Legal provides a true challenger platform for the industry. I’m now focused on building out the offering, recruiting ambitious legal professionals who want the opportunity to be more entrepreneurial while still benefiting from a supportive environment with a strong brand and back office.”
CEO’s Vision
Shru Morris, CEO of Dow Schofield Watts, added: “Building on the progress we’ve made in our legal offering through the acquisition of DR Solicitors, DSW Legal provides a strong platform to continue building out that capability and better meeting client demand. It also offers an attractive home for top legal talent seeking an alternative career path, enabling them to establish their own business under a recognised brand, with the benefit of back-office support, strategic input and start-up funding. With his strength of expertise in growing challenger legal platforms, James is an excellent addition and will be integral to building this new division out further, leveraging the power of DR Solicitors to attract new talent and create a full service offering.”
