Bristol firms Barcan Woodward and Kirby Sheppard are to become a medium-sized practice through a merger next year.

Kirby Sheppard has expertise in employment law, while Barcan Woodward specialises in medical negligence. Both firms work in the areas of family law, probate, conveyancing and personal injury. 

Chris Miller, managing partner at Barcan Woodward, said the firms have a natural synergy. ‘Combining our practice areas will enable us to balance and strengthen our teams, whilst offering further benefits and services through our additional expertise in medical negligence and employment law.’

Bill Willcocks, managing partner at Kirby Sheppard, said: ‘Both of our firms have a solid track record in delivering excellent client service and the added depth of experience that comes with this merger will be a tremendous asset, both to us and our clients.’             

The merger is expected to be confirmed in September this year and the new firm will open in April 2015.

Barcan Woodward was incorporated on 31 January 2013. The firm has three LLP members.  Kirby Sheppard was incorporated in May 2012 and has 10 LLP members.