Law firm McGrigors announces merger

One of Scotland's largest law firms, McGrigors, has announced it is to merge with London-based international firm Pinsent Masons.

The two firms' legal partners voted for the deal that will see the McGrigors name disappear from Scottish legal circles after 220 years.

The combined firm will operate under the name and brand of Pinsent Masons, with a total staff of more than 2,500.

McGrigors currently has nearly 100 partners and 700 employees in total.

Last year Edinburgh-based McGrigors reported the biggest turnover of any Scots law firm, reaching £70m.

McGrigors managing partner Richard Masters said: "While I am sure there will be many who are sorry to see the McGrigors name go, we hope that sentiment is tempered by an appreciation that the country's foremost law firm will now become an integral part of an internationally-recognised legal brand.

"This will, in turn, allow us to better service our clients as they expand into new markets."

The merger is one of several which have taken place in recent months, as the legal sector consolidates.

Last month Scottish legal firm Fyfe Ireland said it was merging with Tods Murray, with offices in Edinburgh and Glasgow.