Supporting Brighton Through Life’s Changes: Meet Acumen Law

Today our guest blog comes from our VIP Connected100 members Acumen Law, who are here to support Brighton through life’s changes. From family matters to business challenges, their expert team provides clear, compassionate legal advice when it’s needed most. Read on to discover how Acumen Law is making a difference for our local community.

Life is full of transitions.

One of the great things about Brighton and Hove is its vibrant community, where people from all walks of life come together to support one another and celebrate local independent businesses. Each person’s journey is unique. Some of life’s transitions are exciting, buying your first flat in Brighton, welcoming a shareholder into your growing independent business, or celebrating marriage. Others can be more challenging, facing employment issues, losing a loved one, or going through separation. These moments can feel overwhelming, and the last thing you need is a traditional lawyer speaking in jargon. That’s where Acumen Law comes in: we’re here to support you through life’s changes, without the jargon or pretentiousness.

How it all started.

The legal industry is notorious for being old-fashioned and inaccessible. Our Founder and CEO, Penina Shepherd, worked her way up in two top 100 London law firms but grew frustrated with their aloof culture, the firm hierarchy and inaccessibility. With a vision to innovate the sector, she set out on her own to build a law firm with people at its heart.

Founded in a time of change.

When Penina launched Acumen Law in 2007, her life was already full of transitions, adapting to a newborn baby, caring for two young children, and overcoming a rare cancer diagnosis. At the same time, the UK was facing the worst recession since 1920. With no financial backing, the odds were stacked against her. But her vision was clear: to create an approachable, accessible, and affordable law firm, built around people.

Living the Dream.

Soon after establishing the firm, the dream and the vision became a reality. Acumen Law has been enjoying the local and national recognition. Listed among the Financial Times’ Top 50 Groundbreaking & Innovative Lawyers in the UK and Europe, crowned UK Rising Star by The Observer, and Penina has been named Entrepreneur of the Year. Acumen’s growth has been fuelled by a people-powered culture, where every team member has a voice. Partners Alvin Itto and Daniel Richards are shining examples of this journey, both began at Acumen Law in junior roles and have grown into leaders of the firm.

Community at the heart.

From the very beginning, people have been at the centre of Acumen Law. We’ve fostered growth internally and created spaces for the business community to connect and thrive. These included a variety of community gatherings throughout the years such as The Acumen Business Club, The Big Fat Greek Club, The Acumen People Awards, The Acumen Business Academy and, of course, the Acumen Business Convention, which has been ongoing for over 15 years and is now a staple in the Sussex business calendar. Now, as proud members of Connected Brighton’s Connected 100, we’re excited to meet and support this inspiring community. We can’t wait to host events, share knowledge, and learn from fellow members.

Come and say hello.

If you see us at a Connected Brighton event, please do come over and introduce yourself, we’d love to meet you and hear about your journey.

• Website: https://www.acumenlaw.co.uk/

• Instagram: @acumen_law

• LinkedIn: Acumen Law

• Facebook: Acumen Law