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We are Rubric Law – a testament to dreams nurtured and hard work. Founded in a bedroom in Bristol in 2012 by James Howell, a knowledgeable solicitor with almost 20 years of experience, Rubric has blossomed into a leading corporate law firm.
In the beginning, our expertise was seen predominantly in the healthcare industry. It’s been quite a journey, one that has led us to act on behalf of one of the globe’s largest veterinary practices.
We now work on behalf of businesses from all industries, with a focus on dentistry, technology, ecommerce and healthcare. Our dedicated team of corporate solicitors has been instrumental in this growth.
As an ambitious visionary, James’s dream was not just about creating another law firm; but about reimagining the very essence of what a law firm could be.
With Rubric, James aimed to transform the often-stiff perception of solicitors, creating a practice that is modern, personable, and approachable, one that values every individual’s unique journey. It’s a vision that we’re not just proud of, but one that has become our identity.
This ethos extends to our internal working culture, characterised by encouragement and growth. James has proudly mentored and trained five legal minds, guiding them to their qualifications as solicitors.
Today, we offer an array of advice for legal matters, from business acquisitions, mergers, and sales to all aspects of employment and commercial property law.
Rubric is more than just a law firm; we’re a team, a family, united by our mission to offer friendly, expert legal guidance to businesses with a modern, approachable touch.
If you have any questions regarding any of our services, please get in touch.
Our advice is sound and effective – easily accessible with a total package that rivals larger firms.
We do what we say – our guaranteed communication charter means you know what to expect from us and when.
We celebrate the individual – encouraging dynamic relationships between our team and you.
We relish a fresh challenge – every new journey is approached by drawing on our experience and skills.
I am a forward-thinking solicitor and the proud owner of Rubric. My commitment to embracing change and leveraging technology ensures that we provide top-notch client service.
Central to Rubric is the belief that effective communication is key in the legal profession.
Beyond my professional life, I’m a devoted father to my wonderful son and an avid enthusiast of historical architecture. I often unwind by exploring historical buildings and taking leisurely country walks.
I joined Rubric in 2015 to support the office, part-time. Following Rubric’s numerous attempts to convince me to move full-time, I did so in 2020. Now as head of business operations, I handle all things financial, HR, admin and IT.
I love walking and getting out at the weekend to see as much of the countryside as possible. My goal in life is to be happy, find the positive in everything and retire to the North Devon coast, maybe climbing a few mountains along the way.
Ready for a new challenge, I left my police lawyer role in Devon to join Rubric as a corporate solicitor to make full use of my business administration degree. I have a special interest in entrepreneurship and helping businesses thrive and particularly enjoy helping clients expand and eventually sell their businesses.
Outside of the office, I enjoy discovering new food, travelling to new places and watching the F1 and boxing.
I joined Rubric as head of real estate in March 2023 having previously been head of commercial property at a well-established firm in South Wales. With over 15 years of post-qualification experience, I have also worked at an international law firm and have been a partner at a previous firm.
With a keen eye for attention to detail, I act for SMEs, investors, developers, landlords, and tenants in a vast range of commercial property matters.
Outside of work, I am kept busy by my two very small children and enjoy watching cricket and rugby, as well as keeping up to date with current affairs.
I specialise in M&A, corporate transactions, and commercial law, with a particular focus on tech deals. I have advised a broad range of clients, from start-ups and manufacturers to public sector organisations, on matters such as share purchases, EMI schemes, and bespoke commercial contracts.
Clients value my commercial insight, hands-on approach, and commitment to delivering practical solutions that align with their business goals. I’m also a keen speaker and contributor on topics such as AI regulation and FinTech funding.
Outside of work, I enjoy hiking, exploring new restaurants, and attending the theatre.
I joined Rubric in January 2025 to oversee and run all marketing activity and help to drive growth. I have worked in-house and in agencies for the past 12 years, across the entire marketing mix for global brands, small independents and household names in healthcare, tech, FMCG and more.
I specialise in digital strategy and brand management, and have a passion for building long-lasting and robust relationships with colleagues, peers and clients alike.
Outside of work, I enjoy watching the rugby, being outside in nature, and love to travel with my girlfriend; experiencing new cultures, food and beers from around the world.
I’m a corporate and commercial solicitor with over a decade of experience, including more than ten years at A&O Shearman. I qualified as a solicitor in 2022 after also completing the CILEx route.
I advise on M&A transactions for a wide range of clients, including multinational corporations, private equity firms and financial institutions. I take a calm, commercial and practical approach, helping clients navigate complex, cross-border deals. Highlights include supporting a £1 billion UK disposal and a CAD 14 billion Canadian acquisition.
Outside work, I enjoy five-a-side football and volunteer as a youth coach.
Joining Rubric in April 2023, I brought a decade of marketing experience across a range of sectors like TV shopping, fitness, and real estate. At Rubric, I enjoy the challenge of reaching new audiences and love the modern take the team has with their approach to legal services.
Outside the office, I’m a fitness enthusiast, teaching Les Mills BODYCOMBAT and spending quality time in the gym. My personal life is filled with fun with family and friends, and travelling as often as I can.
We’re extremely proud of our 5 star rating
Rubric is more than just a law firm; we’re a team, a family, united by our mission to offer friendly, expert legal guidance to businesses with a modern, approachable touch.
