Law firms DWF and Crutes announce merger

The deal will see Crutes formally merge with DWF on January 1.

Crutes has an insurance practice based in the North East, which is supported by specialist commercial services and private client teams.

Andrew Leaitherland, the managing partner at DWF, which has an office in Leeds, said: “This is an exciting move for DWF. Crutes is a natural fit, its outstanding insurance credentials combined with its sector strengths align very clearly with our own. Our combined strengths mean we will have an enhanced offering for businesses across the North East.

“We are committed to growth and investment in the region and see it as a key area for expansion over the next few years. The North East is a dynamic marketplace with plenty of opportunities. I look forward to working with the team and planning together for the future.”

Helen Ager, managing partner at Crutes said: “Joining forces with DWF is a significant move for us. With our strength in insurance, alongside our established services to businesses we believe DWF is an ideal match to enable us to add real weight to our offering here in the North East.”