Two of Liverpool’s oldest chambers have merged in the latest sign of consolidation in the profession. Atlantic Chambers and Oriel Chambers joined to create Hundred Court Chambers.
The merger will bring together 79 members, 20 employees and two pupils under one roof opposite Liverpool’s Civil and Family Court. A further four pupils are set to join later this year. The clerking teams from both chambers will also be brought together.
The chambers said the merger will ‘significantly enhance services to clients while creating immense opportunities for members and staff’.
Atlantic Chambers was originally established in 1939 as Melville Kennan Chambers. It rebranded to Atlantic Chambers in 2003. Past members include Sir Brian Leveson, whose report on the criminal courts is due to be published by the Ministry of Justice this week, as well as Lord Justice Edis, the newly appointed vice president of the Court of Appeal criminal division.
Oriel Chambers was established in 1965 with past members included His Honour Judge Stannard, former official referee (technology and construction court judge) of Liverpool and family judge His Honour Judge Brandon.
Charles Prior, joint head of chambers at Hundred Court, said both sets' 'strong alignment in values, culture and ambition’ meant there was ‘a huge opportunity to come together’ He added: ‘Each set has worked tirelessly to build formidable reputations not only in the north west but throughout the UK. By joining together, we can bring together an even broader range of expertise and specialism, delivering significantly enhanced services and supporting our clients on the most complex of matters.’
Paul Brant, joint head of chambers at Hundred Court Chambers, said: ‘With deep local roots and a foundation of strength and integrity, Hundred Court Chambers is well positioned for an exciting future.
‘The merger enhances our collective excellence and operational capabilities, enabling us to better meet the evolving demands of all our clients in a fast-moving market for legal services. While mergers are often complex, this process has been seamless, which is testament to the cultural alignment across both teams.’
No comments yet