Shakespeares is set to merge with a Solihull legal firm as the sector coninues the consolidation trend.
The Somerset House-based firm is joining with Wood Glaister which will continue to trade under its present name and the combined firm will retain its office in Solihull.
Wood Glaister, which is a nine-partner practice employing 55 people, specialises in property development, commercial property, commercial litigation and personal injury.
Wood Glaister senior partner Alan Sinnett said: “We have very carefully considered how we wish to build a successful future for all of our staff and for the firm.
"Joining forces with Shakespeares provides us with the opportunity to create a very powerful Midlands-based legal business with offices across the region. Solihull remains a vibrant hub for business and we will continue to focus on growing our business in the local area and across the Midlands.
“Shakespeares is a firm which shares our values of working in partnership with clients and delivering excellent client service. As such we are looking forward to maintaining the high levels of personal service which our clients are used to receiving and to introducing further services over time.”
Shakespeares chief executive Paul Wilson added: “The recession has made the legal market place increasingly complex and competitive. By merging with Wood Glaister we will be able to offer clients of the combined firm stronger and deeper legal expertise across all areas of existing practice – particularly property development.
“This decision is the latest in a series of planned growth which has seen the firm grow to a current turnover of around £28m employing 430 people.
"Our aim remains to be one of the leading Midlands domiciled legal services providers. Wood Glaister joining us follows our mergers with Nottingham based law firm Berryman; and Stratfordupon and Avonbased firm Needham & James in 2010 and - most recently in October 2011 - specialist social housing practice Gorrara Haden.
“We are committed to continuing to make positive decisions to invest in our long term success including recruiting the very best people, investing in our infrastructure and remaining focused on serving our clients to the very best of our ability.”
