Two of the biggest names in the civil claims defence sector are set to join forces as private equity money once again shapes the legal services industry. National firm HF (formerly known as Horwich Farrelly) announced today it has agreed to acquire Hempsons, subject to the Solicitors Regulation Authority’s approval.
It is not clear from the announcement whether the acquisition would lead to the disappearance of the Hempsons name or to any job losses or office closures. The acquired firm has around 250 staff working from five offices – including London, Manchester and Southampton, where HF already has bases.
HF sold a minority stake in its business in 2024 to UK-based private equity firm CBPE and has made clear its plans for organic growth and acquisitions.
The firm said it had established a joint leadership team to bring the HF and Hempsons teams together via the TUPE process overseeing the ‘efficiencies’ of integrating offices, central services and systems alongside service expansion.
Ronan McCann, chief executive and managing partner of HF, said: ‘This is a key strategic acquisition for us which puts us at the forefront of new sectors and specialisms as well as enhancing our expertise in the areas where we already operate. We’re excited to provide an even greater service for all our own clients through these new specialisms. Hempsons’ pedigree is unquestioned, they have the most exceptional lawyers in their sector, and overlaying our technology-led approach, we believe Hempsons, like HF, will expand significantly in the coming years.’
Hempsons is positioned as one of the country’s leading health and social care law firms, working with NHS trusts, social care providers and private providers. It has a team of more than 70 lawyers advising on clinical negligence claims, inquests and professional disciplinary matters. The firm dates back more than 130 years and has worked for a long time with the Medical Defence Union.
In the year to 30 June 2025, turnover fell slightly to £23.7m but operating profit was up from £2m to £3.1m. Hempsons had net assets of £5.5m including £861,000 cash reserves.
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