Freeth Cartwright eyes expansion in Leeds

NATIONAL law firm Freeth Cartwright is planning an expansion into Leeds.

The firm, which has an office in Sheffield, told The Lawyer that it is looking to open in the city this year, although it had not yet identified suitable premises or a team to launch with.

Chief executive Peter Smith told The Lawyer: “This year we’re planning to open up in Leeds – it’ll depend on the opportunities.”

Earlier this year the firm scooped several sub-panel spots on the combined West Yorkshire council panel review run by Kirklees Council.

Freeth Cartwright’s financial figures for the 2012/13 financial year show solid growth, breaking through the £40m barrier to £40.6m compared to £36.7m in 2011/12, a 10.6% increase.

The firm now employs over 480 people, including 194 lawyers and 99 partners – up from 91 in the previous year.

Smith said Freeth Cartwright would continue to look for merger opportunities and was planning for further expansion and profit growth.