TWO of the conurbation’s leading law firms are to merge.

Rawlins Davy and Jacobs and Reeves are joining forces on October 1 and will be known as Rawlins Davy Reeves.

The branch network for the new firm will include the landmark premises Beechurst in Poole High Street, together with offices on Richmond Hill in Bournemouth, in Wimborne and in Old Town Poole.

Mark Kiteley of Rawlins Davy, who is to be the managing director of the new look company, said: “This is an excellent move for both firms.

“It enables investment in even stronger legal services and in our combined team of excellent, experienced, ethics-driven lawyers.”

He added: “We are bringing together two of the region's most well-known legal names. Rawlins Davy is the oldest law firm in Bournemouth, founded in 1832 and Jacobs and Reeves was established in the 1970s, so together we have around 240 years of experience.

“That’s not a bad track record. We are mindful of our heritage and traditions but of course we are looking ahead to an exciting future developing even stronger legal services and potential further growth and acquisition.”

Helen Henson, owner of Jacob and Reeves, said she was delighted by the merger, which she described as a huge step forward.

She has been with the firm for 28 years, completing her training there.

She said: “I am very much looking forward to this next chapter. We are a traditional high street firm specialising in family, private client and property.

“This merger opens up a huge opportunity for developing services. Bigger is better now and RDR will be the only law firm on the high street in Poole.”

She added the merger would be beneficial for the company, staff and clients and be a substantial boost to recruitment. The company will recognise the heritage of Jacobs and Reeves by retaining the brand for its legal aided family practice.

Company chairman Martin Davies said the merger is an exciting step in the future of both firms and that the new merged firm of Rawlins Davy Reeves will be well placed to move forward building upon the strength and history of both Rawlins Davy and Jacobs and Reeves.

Mr Davies added: “The legal market is a reflection of a world that is changing ever more rapidly and the larger merged firm will be better placed to adapt to these changes ensuring that it continues to meet the evolving needs of clients and staff whilst maintaining a quality service across the BCP conurbation and beyond.”