The predicted consolidation in the legal sector continues apace. Two more Midland firms have joined together creating a £30m turnover firm that will employ over 400 staff. Shakespeare Putsman only recently merged with another midlands firm Needham James and has now brought Berryman into the fold.

Shakespeare Putsman chief executive Paul Wilson told The Lawyer: “By merging, the two firms cement their position in the Midlands legal market place,” added Wilson. “As an ambitious, growing firm this merger will take us a step closer to establishing a leading Midlands legal firm. The merger also creates the platform for major investment in our people, infrastructure and branding.”

Who’s next?