Jobs at risk as law firm announces department closure plans

Around 100 jobs are at risk after law firm Simpson Millar announced a companywide restructure.

The firm, which has offices across the UK including Leeds and Manchester, has outlined plans to close its dispute resolution, employment and wills, trusts and probate departments.

It is now consulting with around 100 staff whose roles are affected by the changes.

The firm said it will retain its injury sector and remaining private client work.

Simpson Millar is also reported to be in advanced discussions with a firm regarding the acquisition of its Conveyancing work in progress (WIP) and the transfer of its Conveyancing team.

CEO Greg Cox said: “Simpson Millar is a great business, and we firmly believe that we have the opportunity to really challenge the legal market and the way that legal services are offered to clients.

“However, like all firms in the legal sector we must adapt to the changing legal services market – including the extension of fixed costs to large parts of civil litigation – and wider external forces.

“The proposed restructure takes into consideration these challenges and provides us with an opportunity to review our operational efficiencies, get the firm ready for the forthcoming changes and further invest in our growth areas.

“We are pleased to say that we are now in advanced discussions regarding the acquisition of our conveyancing work, and the transfer of staff.

“Sadly, however, we have also entered into consultation with those colleagues whose roles are affected by other changes. As you will appreciate, we can’t comment further on the outcome of any consultation at this time.

“Our priority is to support those affected, and to ensure that we continue to provide a great service to our clients during this transition. We continue to have the full support and backing of our investors.”