Morton Fraser grows in Glasgow with Macdonalds deal

By PERRY GOURLEY
Published on 07/12/2012 00:00

LAW firm Morton Fraser is significantly upping its Glasgow presence in the latest consolidation deal in Scotland’s legal sector.

The practice, chaired by Linda Urquhart, today announced plans to acquire Glasgow-based Macdonalds in a deal which will take its staff in the city to more than 70.

The combined firm, which will operate under Morton Fraser’s name and have 13 partners in Glasgow, is projecting turnover in excess of £17 million.

The tie-up is expected to be completed by the end of the first quarter of 2013. Macdonalds’ clients includes house builders, life assurance companies, pension providers and charities.

The firm also has a debt recovery and litigation practice, acting for major banks and finance houses.

Duncan Murray, chief executive of Morton Fraser, which has its other offices in Edinburgh and London, said Macdonalds was an “attractive cultural fit”.

“The merger is in line with our long-term strategic objective to build our presence in Glasgow and we have already received very positive client feedback.”

Macdonalds partner Robert Swindell, who will join the Morton Fraser managing board, said it would enable clients to access a broader range of services.

The Scottish legal sector has seen a wave of consolidation this year with recent deals 
announced including plans by Burness and Paull and Williamsons to merge.