Stewart & Noble Lawyers have been operating for 70 years with offices in Wangaratta and Myrtleford that will remain open following the merger.

Principal of Stewart & Noble, Mike Noble, said in a statement that the merger would deliver benefits to both staff and clients. "We know that it's important for people to be able to access legal services through a local lawyer and that's what we are going to continue doing," Noble said.

"However, Slater & Gordon has a powerful reputation for fighting on behalf of its clients in Victoria and nationally and we look forward to accessing all of the resources...we are very excited about the change," Noble continued.

Slater & Gordon managing director Andrew Grech said the merger was an important investment in the firm's growth in north-east Victoria.