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Slater & Gordon buys UK law firm

user iconThe New Lawyer 06 February 2012 SME Law

Australian law firm Slater & Gordon has announced its first move overseas, via the acquisition of UK law firm, Russell Jones & Walker.

Australian law firm Slater & Gordon has today announced its first move overseas, via the acquisition of UK law firm, Russell Jones & Walker.

Slater & Gordon announced its intention to acquire RJW in an announcement to the ASX. It is the law firm’s largest acquisition to date.

Slater & Gordon managing director Andrew Grech said RJW, which has approximately 425 staff, across 10 locations in the UK, was the ideal partner for Slater & Gordon in the UK.

Grech said the firm has done some digging into the UK market for the past three years, researching more than 30 law firms to find the best fit.

The acquisition, which is subject to regulatory approval but is expected by April this year, is aimed at benefitting clients and cases that cross jurisdictions.

Grech said RJW has a history and values that are similar to Slater & Gordon's.

“The firm has a management team that can see the opportunities that lie ahead in the UK market … We will be among the first to take advantage of a number of significant changes which are occurring in the legal profession in the UK,” he said.

“Both, Slater & Gordon and our new colleagues at RJW believe that the changes present an enormous opportunity for those who are prepared.

“Our experience as a listed public company gives us a head start on other law firms in the UK.”

Grech said the announcement would also deliver benefits to clients and staff in Australia.

“In Australia we will continue our growth strategy and we will keep focussed on what we are here to do — provide affordable legal services for everyday Australians.

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