Legal firm eyes growth after 'big moment' takeover

A law firm has expanded with a takeover.

Fisher Jones Greenwood has bought Giles Wilson.

Officials say the move for the South Essex law firm “reinforces Fisher Jones Greenwood’s position as one of the region’s leading legal businesses”.

They add the swoop has seen Giles Wilson’s 35-strong Leigh-on-Sea team switch to London, Essex and Suffolk-based Fisher Jones Greenwood – including a Court of Protection and vulnerable client team – with the latter’s portfolio further boosted by a “significant Southend base”.

Doug Field, managing partner of Fisher Jones Greenwood, which sits within multi-company operator Lawfront, said: “This is a big moment. 

“We have serious ambitions for what a truly outstanding regional law firm can become.  

“Giles Wilson is exactly the kind of business we want to join us: successful, respected, deeply connected to its communities and full of talented people.”

Giles Wilson’s roots in Leigh-on-Sea date to 1950, when John Wilson founded the practice before partnering with Tony Giles in 1967.

Melinda Giles and brother Philip bought the firm in 1997, with the company adopting an employee ownership trust model in 2022.

Melinda said: “We have found a firm that shares our commitment to clients, our belief in our people and our ambition for the future. 

“We can retain the relationships, local knowledge and personal approach that have made Giles Wilson successful, while giving our clients access to greater resources and expertise.”

The deal was supported by Midlands, East Anglia, South East and London accountancy and business advisory firm Affinia.

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