Law firm is still open to mergers after office move

SCOTTISH law firm Morisons has underscored its growth ambitions by announcing a move to bigger premises in Edinburgh and unveiling a host of senior appointments.

And, as leading players signalled this week that further consolidation in the Scottish legal scene is likely, the Edinburgh-based firm insisted it remains open to making acquisitions.

The firm is believed to see significant potential in offering a more personal and local service compared with that offered by the biggest players in the Scottish market, with its successful acquisitions in recent years of Bonar MacKenzie, Macrae, Flett and Rennie, and before that Maxwell MacLaurin, giving it the platform to do further deals.

Partner Robin Valentine said: “As well as contributing to our growth, our acquisitions have enabled us to attract highly skilled people, which is crucial as the industry starts to experience improving market conditions. And it is something we wouldn’t rule out in the future if the right opportunity comes along.”

Morisons will move from its office in Queen Street, Edinburgh, for the second floor of 1 Exchange Crescent in Conference Square on Monday. The new office will accommodate the 75 staff it employs at Erskine House, as well as those who work between Edinburgh and Glasgow.

The move comes as Lucy Gannon is promoted to partner in Morisons’ business team, and Jacqueline McCluskey joins from HBJ Gateley as a partner specialising in employment law.

Rachel MacDonald, formerly of Thorley Stephenson, has joined the family team, while Vicky Baird has moved from Thompsons to join the personal injuries team.