DWF merger sees top 20 step closer

The deal bolsters DWF’s presence in London and expands its geographical coverage to include Bristol and Dublin.

Andrew Leaitherland, managing partner and CEO of DWF, said: “This merger significantly enhances our position in the professional indemnity market.

“Fishburns’ experience enables us to continue our investment in niche practice areas and consequently raise the bar around client delivery.”

DWF, which has an office at Bridgewater Place in Leeds, had a turnover of £102m last year. Fishburns generated £20m.

DWF merged with Scottish firm Biggart Baillie last summer, giving it offices in Edinburgh and Glasgow.

Antony Marsh, senior partner at Fishburns, said: “Merging with DWF provides Fishburns with a growth platform that will enable us to build on our already strong professional indemnity offering... and provide a wider range of services to our clients.”