Stephen Rimmer LLP, one of East Sussex’s top-rated law firms, has acquired Bexhill-on-Sea solicitors Donaldson Dunstall, bringing together two well-regarded practices and reinforcing the strength of legal services available to the local community.
Photo (left to right): Colin Dunstall, Partner at Donaldson Dunstall; Grant Sanders, Partner at Stephen Rimmer; and Patrick Donaldson, Partner at Donaldson Dunstall
Founded in 1981, Stephen Rimmer LLP celebrates its 45th anniversary this year. Over four and a half decades, the firm has grown into a leading name in East Sussex and beyond, providing a comprehensive range of legal services including residential and commercial property, family law, private client services, employment law, litigation and dispute resolution, and company and commercial advice.
Known for combining technical expertise with an approachable, community-focused ethos, the firm has built lasting relationships with local individuals, families and businesses.
Donaldson Dunstall has long been a trusted presence in Bexhill-on-Sea since 1998, serving generations of local clients. The firm is particularly well known for its conveyancing, wills and probate, and private client work; all areas where personal relationships and continuity of advice are paramount. Its reputation for accessibility and straightforward, reliable service has made it a cornerstone of the local high street.
For Stephen Rimmer, the move represents a natural and community-driven step. The firm already has strong ties to Bexhill: many existing clients are based in and around the town, several partners have long-standing connections to the area, and a number of team members live locally.
Grant Sanders, Partner of Stephen Rimmer LLP, said: “We have a genuine affection for Bexhill and the people and businesses who make it such a special community. Donaldson Dunstall has built an excellent reputation over many years, and we are delighted that their partners and staff will be continuing with us.
“For clients, it’s very much business as usual – the same trusted faces, supported by the wider expertise and resources of Stephen Rimmer.”
Significantly, the acquisition ensures complete continuity for clients: all Donaldson Dunstall staff will remain in their roles.
For the wider community, the combination enhances the depth and resilience of legal provision at a time when many high street firms face increasing regulatory and economic pressures.
Patrick Donaldson, Partner at Donaldson Dunstall, commented: “Our priority has always been our clients and our team. Joining Stephen Rimmer 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.”
The acquisition will take the team to more than 130 people across the four offices along the South Coast. Stephen Rimmer will provide career progression and development opportunities for those joining from Donaldson Dunstall, and will continue to proactively recruit talented teams and individuals across the region.
The regional legal market has experienced significant consolidation in recent years, driven by rising compliance obligations, technological change and growing client expectations. Against this backdrop, the acquisition reflects a long-term investment in maintaining strong, locally rooted legal services across East Sussex.
As Stephen Rimmer marks 45 years in practice, the firm sees the acquisition as both a celebration of its heritage and a clear statement of intent for the future: sustained growth, deeper community ties, and a continued commitment to delivering high-quality, accessible legal advice.
For clients old and new, the message is simple: the same personal service, now strengthened by shared expertise and a unified vision for the years ahead.
Need legal support in 2026? As a full-service law firm, Stephen Rimmer LLP can assist you at every stage, from conveyancing and family matters to employment law and wills and probate, providing clear, practical advice to help you move forward with confidence.
Call the team on: 01323 644222 or email enquiries@stephenrimmer.com
or visit the website at www.stephenrimmer.com
