Stephen Rimmer LLP Acquires Donaldson Dunstall
April 2026
Deal Type
Company Sale
Our role
Lead Advisor
Business Services
EMC Corporate Finance is pleased to announce that Stephen Rimmer LLP has acquired Donaldson Dunstall. EMC acted as Lead Advisor for Donaldson Dunstall, with Ryan Smith leading the transaction with Michael Pay.
Founded in 1998, Donaldson Dunstall has built a strong reputation for delivering trusted legal advice, particularly in residential conveyancing, wills and probate, and private client services. Stephen Rimmer LLP, established in 1981, has grown into one of the region’s leading law firms, offering a comprehensive range of legal services to individuals, families and businesses.
The transaction brings together two well-established firms with deep roots in the local community. The integration will see Donaldson Dunstall’s team join Stephen Rimmer, expanding the combined firm to more than 130 people across four offices along the South Coast.
This is a strong strategic fit between two highly regarded firms with shared values around client service and long-term relationships. Stephen Rimmer’s continued growth, combined with Donaldson Dunstall’s established reputation in Bexhill, creates a compelling proposition for both clients and staff.
It has been a pleasure to support both parties through this process, and we look forward to seeing the combined firm continue to thrive across the region.”
Ryan Smith, EMC Corporate Finance
Our priority has always been our clients and our team. With this acquisition it allows us to preserve the personal service our clients value, while giving them access to a broader range of specialist expertise.
We believe this is a positive and secure step forward for the future. A big thank you to Ryan and EMC team for their support with delivering this very successful outcome.
Patrick Donaldson, Partner, Donaldson Dunstall
For more information please see: https://www.stephenrimmer.com
Advisers for Donaldson Dunstall
EMC Ryan Smith, Michael Pay, Steve Carroll (Lead Advisors) and Dean Wilson (Legal)
The EMC Team


