Abbey Protection buys law firm Lewis Hymanson Small

MANCHESTER law firm Lewis Hymanson Small has sold a majority stake to AIM-listed insurance and legal services provider Abbey Protection.

Financial terms were not disclosed. Croydon-based Abbey Protection has recently been granted ABS status, allowing it to enter the legal market.

Ian Lewis, founding partner of LHS, hailed the deal as an “enormous step forward” for the firm.

“We intend to grow the business and move forward together with a strategy that would be impossible for us without external investment and support.  We are flattered that Abbey Protection chose us and see this as a reflection of the principles that LHS have adhered to both to clients and to its loyal and dedicated employees.

“We are particularly proud that Abbey Protection have decided to continue to use the name and goodwill of LHS.”

All six LHS partners, including founders Ian Lewis and Graham Small, will remain with the business.

Chris Ward, group managing director of Abbey Protection said: “We have worked with LHS for a number of years and I am delighted to welcome the practice into the Abbey Protection Group.

“Throughout the time we have worked together, it has been with a mutual understanding and dedication that puts the client first. Developing a new breed of legal service which will put the client at its heart has been a long-term strategic priority for Abbey Protection and we believe that with our investment and support,

“LHS will be able to continue to deliver the specialist, independent legal support that its clients deserve – and help us develop new and exciting legal markets for the future.”