‘Michael Walby is the go-to person for corporate transactions. Exceptional knowledge and practical advice.’
Legal 500 UK 2026
Michael is our Head of Corporate and is based in Carlisle. He is recognised as a Leading Partner by Legal 500 and as a Notable Practitioner by Chambers and Partners.
Michael spent 10 years gaining a wide range of experience advising on corporate matters at international law firm Pinsent Masons LLP.
He specialises in M&A, or business acquisitions and sales. He has led many strategic and high-value transactions over the years, including advising on the sale of Carlisle United FC and the sale of Zoo Hardware to Tyman PLC.
Michael has established himself as a trusted business adviser to some of the North’s largest companies, including H&H Group PLC, Kingmoor Park, Cumbria Waste Group and Cumberland Building Society. He is passionate about all aspects of business, and particularly enjoys acting as a sounding board to shareholders, directors and entrepreneurs, advising them on strategic as well as legal matters.
Michael is well connected in the business community, and as one of the most active corporate lawyers in the region, has strong relationships with most banks, accountants and corporate finance advisers across the North.
Michael also supports our Wealth and Succession Planning service.
‘Michael Walby is the go-to person for corporate transactions. Exceptional knowledge and practical advice.’
Legal 500 UK 2026
Your legal advice, commercial acumen, support in challenging times, project management skills, and dedication has been truly outstanding. With your assistance we managed to navigate some difficult contracts, GDPR, supplier agreements, share buybacks, and last but not least the sale of our company.
Responsive, articulate in complicated matters and very reliable.
Craig Smith, Managing Director, Mazuma Mobile
Immense thanks to the team of specialist lawyers at Burnetts for their support and guidance on this transaction. They have been first-class throughout, and really drove the transaction through”
Tony O’Pray, former shareholder TIS (Cumbria) Limited
The team at Burnetts were on top of all of the detail, were very focussed and calm, and advised confidently throughout to achieve a great outcome on our sale.
Scott Harrington, Hyde Harrington Limited
I was very pleased to have the Burnetts team working alongside me. Their advice and guidance from deal inception right through to completion was invaluable. Their legal and commercial expertise really came to the fore in negotiations. They are an impressive team.
John McGibbon, PAR Systems Limited
Michael is very approachable and very knowledgeable and knows our business inside out.
Chambers UK Legal Guide 2026