Law firm Thrings has merged with historic legal practice Okells FrancisLaw in a move it said "strengthens" its geographic reach.
The deal brings Wye Valley-based Okells FrancisLaw’s teams in Ross-On-Wye and Lydney, in Gloucestershire, into Thrings, adding to its existing offices in Bath, Bristol, Swindon, London and Romsey.
Thrings, which has 42 partners and more than 250 staff, said its clients would "benefit" from an increased presence on the Welsh borders and the expertise of Okells FrancisLaw’s agriculture and private client lawyers.
Thrings will keep its branding for all the existing teams and offices following the merger, it said, while Okells will use the branding Thrings Solicitors Incorporating Okells with FrancisLaw LLP.
Simon Holdsworth, managing partner at Thrings, said: “The coming together of our two firms is a perfect fit strategically and geographically. It joins two practices with similar specialisms and a shared commitment to providing outstanding client service built upon sector expertise, a commitment to outstanding service, and strong relationships.
“As Thrings continues to grow its national presence, we are excited to see the benefits this will bring farmers, landowners, rural businesses and private individuals in the Wye Valley and Welsh borders, who will continue to be served by the specialists at Okells FrancisLaw with the added benefit of access to the full range of services we are proud to provide.”
Okells FrancisLaw was established in 1904 by George Okell and offers agriculture and private client services, as well as a range of practice areas including employment law and conveyancing.
Andrew Morris, senior partner at Okells FrancisLaw, added: “Our firm has a long history and heritage in the Wye Valley and a tradition of serving agriculture and rural economy businesses, the owners of those business and the people and communities who live and work in the region.
“This merger enables our team to continue to nurture and grow the strong relationships we enjoy with our clients and referrers while strengthening the depth of our offering to the region."
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