US-based litigation funder Burford Capital has broadened its portfolio by taking a minority investment in Kindleworth, a London-based consultancy specialising in launching and managing law firms. Announcing the deal, the funder said it 'combined Burford global reach and legal expertise with Kindleworth’s track record of empowering top legal talent. Together, they will provide the scale and support entrepreneurial lawyers need to launch and grow successful firms.'

Kindleworth, founded in 2012, says it has helped launch more than 50 law firms and offices globally, employing more than 1,000 lawyers. Post-launch, it provides strategic advice and manages functions including finance, compliance, technology, HR, operations and marketing.

The partnership will also create opportunities for Burford to invest capital in support of Kindleworth-backed firms. Burford and Kindleworth did not reveal the value of the cash investment or the size of the minority stake. Burford added that the deal 'does not represent a material investment' and is not expected to affect earnings per share. 

James Hacking, Kindleworth’s co-founder, said: 'The future of the legal profession belongs to entrepreneurial lawyers and forward-thinking legal professionals who can adapt and lead in a rapidly changing market. By providing the resources, expertise and infrastructure they need to thrive, we help turn ambition into market-leading law firms. Burford shares our vision, and this partnership strengthens our ability to help exceptional lawyers and firms reach their full potential.'

Shares in Burford Capital Limited on the London Stock Exchange slipped 1% to 926p today.