Cripps and Michelmores have begun talks over a merger that would create a combined southern England firm with over 1,000 staff and annual income of around £100m.

In 2024 Michelmores posted record turnover of £50m, up 16% on the previous year. Profit before member remuneration climbed to £14.3m from £11.8m. The firm employs over 500 at offices in Bristol, Cheltenham, Exeter and London.

Cripps, which has offices in Tunbridge Wells, Horsham and London, also employs over 500. In 2024 the firm posted profit before members’ remuneration and profit share of £10.7m on turnover of £47.2m, compared with £11.4m and £44.6m respectively the previous year.

A spokesperson for Cripps said: ‘Cripps is in initial discussions with law firm, Michelmores, about a potential merger. These conversations are preliminary and are focused on whether, by combining two strong and successful businesses in the south, we can create more opportunities for our clients, our people, and the communities we serve. Discussions are at a very early stage, and no decisions have been made.’