Halliwells seeks to transfer work

Halliwells, which has an office in Sheffield, said its performance had been affected by the tough economic conditions affecting the country.

A statement issued on behalf of Halliwells said: "Halliwells is in advanced discussions for the transfer of the business in its entirety to another highly- regarded firm of solicitors, due to events that have adversely impacted the finances of the firm.

"These are the result of high property costs exacerbated by the current economic climate which affected the profitability of the firm. The underlying business remains strong and has attracted interest from a number of parties.

"To provide Halliwells with a period of stability to facilitate this transfer the firm has entered into a moratorium to protect the interests of clients and other stakeholders and to ensure business continues as usual."

The statement said the moratorium had been obtained by filing a notice at court on Thursday.

Commercial law firm Halliwells also has staff in offices in Manchester, Liverpool and London.

In December 2009, it was revealed that around 60 members of staff at Halliwells' Sheffield office were leaving to join legal insurance firm Kennedys, which is due to open an office in Sheffield this summer.

The exodus was led by managing partner and high profile businesswoman Suzanne Liversidge.

Ms Liversidge, who is set to become president of the city's chamber of commerce in September 2011, is one of 11 partners joining Kennedys.

Earlier this year, Halliwells played down the significance of the departures, stressing that the firm had a strong multi-disciplinary team in Sheffield, covering insurance, healthcare, corporate, real estate, commercial litigation, employment and construction.

[email protected]