Two well-established North East law firms have merged, creating a business with operations across Northumberland and Tyne and Wear.
Alderson Law, which has offices in Blyth and Morpeth, has merged with Whitley Bay-based Hipkin & Co.
Alderson Law was formed two years ago following the merger of Alderson Dodds and Whoolley Goodings, which created one of the largest independent law firms in Northumberland.
Guy Goodings, one of the partners at the Blyth firm and a former president of the Newcastle Law Society, approached Hipkin & Co partner Mark Hipkin, who also held the title of president in 2011, with the opportunity to increase the strength of both practices through a merger.
With 26 years of experience as a sole practitioner, the merger allows Hipkin to increase the range of services available to his existing client base while Alderson can extend its presence into Tyne and Wear.
Hipkin said: "I am looking forward to bringing my legal and management experience to this growing practice. Merging the two firms represents an exciting new phase for Alderson Law LLP and strengthens its position in the North East market."
Goodings added: "This merger supports our ambitions to grow our presence across Northumberland and Tyne and Wear. Hipkin & Co has an exemplary reputation and fits perfectly with our commitment to delivering the best possible service to clients across the region and beyond."
Both parties were advised by partners from accountancy practice and business advisory Ryecroft Glenton.
Hipkin & Co was advised by managing partner Chris Robson while partner and law sector specialist Ian Smith, who was an adviser to Alderson Dodds, represented Alderson Law.