Merger to herald a new era for solicitors

After qualifying as a solicitor, Baroness Warsi worked for Dewsbury's former Tory MP John Whitfield at Whitfield Hallam Goodall Solicitors.

Yesterday it was revealed that Huddersfield-based Ramsdens Solicitors had completed a merger with Whitfield Hallam Goodall.

In a statement, Ramsdens said: "This is a great opportunity for the firm and ultimately for their clients. They very much look forward to working together as an expanded team with broader practice capabilities to better serve their current and future client-base."

Paul Joyce, the managing partner at Ramsdens, said: "In light of the current market conditions, I am delighted that we have been able to buck the trend and expand our team by joining forces with the well regarded Whitfield Hallam Goodall.

"Both firms have long enjoyed excellent reputations, and now together we have the assets and professional resources to carry that forward. As one firm, we will be able to serve our clients better.

"This strategic merger presents an outstanding opportunity for us to dramatically increase our business momentum and growth."

Ramsdens was established in 1870. Following the merger, it will have 150 staff and 18 partners across eight offices throughout Kirklees and Calderdale in West Yorkshire.