Irwin Mitchell combines with Scottish law firm

Irwin Mitchell has announced it will combine with Scotland-based law firm Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie in an effort to strengthen its presence north of the border.

The two firms working in collaboration will provide a “full suite of legal and financial services” from more than 20 locations across England, Scotland, and Wales.

Irwin Mitchell’s current Scottish operation is based in Glasgow, predominantly in banking and finance and complex personal injury work, while Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie specialises in corporate, private client, property, and asset management.

Irwin Mitchell’s offering in England and Wales will be opened up to Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie’s clients as part of the move.

As part of the agreement, on completion, Irwin Mitchell Partners Bruce Macmillan, Craig Marshall and Mark Higgins, will join the newly constituted Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie Management Board.

“The two firms are a great cultural fit and share a similar purpose, values, and future vision,” explained Craig Marshall, Group Chief Operating Officer at Irwin Mitchell, adding:

“We have ambitious plans for growth, and we are both focused on building on our client-centric approach, an excellent colleague experience and an ambition to become leading responsible businesses.

This strategic investment significantly expands our access to Scotland and Irwin Mitchell and Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie believe it will fundamentally enhance the service for current and future clients across the whole of the UK and internationally.”

Fraser Gillies, Managing Partner at Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie, will continue to head up operations in Scotland. He said:

“This is a landmark moment for our firm. We have expanded considerably over the past decade and this investment will supercharge our growth efforts and provide a clear route into England and Wales, while broadening the services we can offer our clients.

We share a similar approach, putting our clients and people at the heart of everything we do. We also share similar ambitions for the future, so we are proud to make history together and begin this exciting new chapter.”

In the past 12 months Irwin Mitchell has also agreed deals to acquire asset management firms TWP Wealth and Andrews Gwynne. The firm has also opened new offices in Cardiff and Liverpool and recruited 18 new partners.