Shoosmiths lets 86 go

National firm Shoosmiths has responded to a difficult financial year by announcing a total of 86 redundancies.

The top 40 firm, where turnover dropped by 3% in 2011/12 to £84m, today confirmed 71 voluntary and 15 compulsory redundancies following a two-month consultation.

The firm announced in May that 93 roles were at risk as it restructured its consumer arm, primarily affecting the volume motor personal injury team based in Basingstoke.

Private client practice group head David Palmer said: ‘It is very regrettable that we had to make redundancies as part of the restructuring.

‘This has been a difficult time, and those affected have conducted themselves with professionalism and dignity throughout the consultation process. We wish them well in the future.’

The firm, which reported profit per equity partner falling by 21% last year, has 113 partners and more than 1,200 staff at seven offices in England.

It has not been confirmed which level of staff will be affected by the redundancies.