South coast merger creates 27 partner firm

Two leading law firms have officially merged to create one of the largest legal practices in southern England.

Southampton and Salisbury-based Trethowans has merged with Poole-based Dickinson Manser to create a 27 partner and over 65 lawyer firm.

Both firms are well established in the region. Trethowans has been providing legal services to the community for nearly 150 years, while Dickinson Manser's history can be traced back to 1768.

The new firm will retain the Trethowans brand, with current managing partner Chris Whiteley continuing in his role.

Ushering in the new era, Whiteley said: 'The merger has been many months in the planning. Both practices have excellent reputations and the merger will only serve to enhance the new firm's standing in the region.'

The deal comes just ten months after Trethowans expanded into new Southampton offices. Whiteley said that operating in a third location was key to the firm's future ambitions.

Dickinson Manser's senior partner, Gary Pick, added: 'Trethowans operates with values that match our own and by joining forces we will be able to offer an even greater depth of expertise to clients. As a team we remain committed to providing the best possible legal advice to both private individuals and commercial enterprises.'

Commercial clients at the firm include international and national household brand names, owner-managed businesses, entrepreneurs and major regional employers across the UK.

The legal teams will also work with individuals, such as landowners, local families, property developers, and trustees.

Image left to right: Partners Simon Rhodes from Trethowans, Mark Daniels from Dickinson Manser, Chris Whiteley, managing partner of Trethowans, and Gary Pick senior partner of Dickinson Manser