Dentons advises Capita plc on the sale of Eclipse to Access UK Limited

London—Dentons has advised Capita plc, the consulting, digital services and software business, on the sale of Eclipse Legal Systems to Access UK Limited for £56.5m (on a cash free, debt free basis). Eclipse is a successful mid-market case, matter and practice management software provider operating in the UK legal market.

Jon Lewis, Capita’s Chief Executive Officer, said “This disposal forms part of Capita’s strategy to simplify, strengthen and succeed. It will help us simplify by disposing of a standalone business, while the disposal proceeds will help strengthen Capita’s balance sheet. At the same time, our colleagues at Eclipse will benefit from a committed new owner, supporting further investment and growth."

Claire Chapman, Chief General Counsel at Capita, said "Dentons really delivered for us on this. We are grateful for their technical expertise,  pragmatic advice and hard work on the transaction."

Neil Nicholson, partner in Dentons' London Corporate team, said, "We’re very pleased to have had the opportunity to advise Capita on such an interesting M&A deal delivered to the agreed timetable. The Capita deal team were excellent to work for, in particular Senior Legal Counsel Gemma Formby who led on the legal side for Capita". 

Martin Fanning, Capita client relationship partner at Dentons, said, "We're delighted with the positive feedback from Capita and look forward to continuing to represent Capita in the future as a highly valued client of the firm."

The Dentons team was led by London Corporate partner Neil Nicholson and included Corporate senior associate Rachael Del Riccio, Corporate associate Chloe Gill, TMT partner Martin Fanning, TMT senior associate Sarah Lima, TMT associate Amy O'Shea, Employment partner Michelle Lamb and Tax partner Alex Thomas.

About Dentons

Dentons is the world's largest law firm, connecting talent to the world's challenges and opportunities in more than 75 countries. Dentons' legal and business solutions benefit from deep roots in our communities and award-winning advancements in client service, including Nextlaw, Dentons’ innovation and strategic advisory services. Dentons' polycentric and purpose-driven approach, commitment to inclusion and diversity, and world-class talent challenge the status quo to advance client and community interests in the New Dynamic. www.dentons.com