A law firm based in Inverness for nearly 50 years has merged with a larger one headquartered in the central belt.
Partners and staff at MacArthur & Co will join forces with Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie (WJM) as of 1st February 2016.
Four partners and nine employees will be joining WJM, and the combined firm will move to new offices in Inverness in the New Year.
The merged practice, which will trade as Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie (incorporating MacArthur & Co) will have a combined turnover of over £7million, as well as 24 partners, 51 fee earners and 43 support staff.
WJM’s history stretches back over 150 years, originally in the West of Scotland but now operating from offices in Glasgow, Edinburgh and Inverness. It opened its current office in Inverness in 2011, with Angus MacLeod as their resident partner.
MacArthur & Co currently offer a range of private client services including conveyancing, as well as a commercial practice. These will combine with WJM’s full range of legal services including corporate, commercial, renewable energy and employment law, as well as its specialism in advising family businesses.
Mr MacLeod said: “Both firms have ambitions to grow the business and provide our clients with continuity of service and access to a wider range of expert legal services. These will be delivered by people with local knowledge who live and work in the Highlands with the support of the additional resources and infrastructure of WJM.”
Ian MacDonald, MacArthur & Co’s senior partner, said: “We want to build on the strengths and heritage of both firms and have a shared vision to help clients achieve what they want for themselves, their families and their businesses with a practical, friendly and value for money approach”.
Liam Entwistle, WJM chief executive ,said: “This exciting merger provides a strong platform for growth in the Highlands and Islands. There is a strong cultural fit and we believe this merger will give us a real competitive advantage.”