Law firms’ merger creates new property-focused entity

A new property-focused law firm has been created following the merger of two practices.

Abacus Solicitors and ET Law have merged, creating a 50-strong team with offices in Manchester, Warrington and, shortly, Altrincham.

ET Law has worked collaboratively, but separately, with Abacus since 2010 and the merger formalises their long-standing partnership.

It will further be cemented with the adoption of a new practice name, Able Legal, in the New Year.

The multi-disciplinary practice has an acknowledged specialism in residential and commercial property law, including property litigation and dispute resolution.

More recently it has added a successful corporate law resource.

Abacus managing partner, Geoff Underhill, said: “This is a combination of equals with very similar cultures and sizes.

“We’ve created a much stronger business that provides the platform on which we can grow our service offer to clients whilst providing enhanced career opportunities to a dedicated and hard working team.”

ET Law has evolved from a small, high street practice with a focus on private clients to a 25-strong team focused on residential property. The two firms’ business operations have been combined with immediate effect.

Geoff Underhill added: “Our new name provides an apt summary of our abilities as recognised experts in our specialisms. It’s dynamic, memorable and marks the passing of the old and the emergence of a new, stronger and better resourced business.”

Key clients of the enlarged practice include Elan Homes, Hornsearle Property Group, Lane End Developments and Oddfellows Hotels.

Recent corporate deals led by the firm include the sale of Bolton-based prop-tech firm BVS to the Davies Group and an £11.5m capital investment by Hornsearle Property Group.