Two of South Devon’s oldest law firms are merging with the aim of becoming the ‘super firm’ for the area.

Hooper & Wollen, which was established in Torquay 1868, will be merging on the 1st October with Newton Abbot based Harold Michelmore, which has been practicing since 1861.

The new firm, which will be known as Wollen Michelmore, will have offices in Torquay, Newton Abbot, Paignton, and Dartmouth, will have 15 partners, and will employ a total of over 100 staff.

Hooper and Wollen Managing Partner Chris Hart said: “We are delighted that this merger will enable us to create an outstanding South Devon based practice like no other. We will be able to offer the finest advice through large specialised commercial, private and legal aid departments. It will also enable the firm to develop and offer further specialised and niche areas of expertise. We will be able to expand our resources and therefore the range of services we can offer to our clients.”

Joanna Williams, Managing Partner of Harold Michelmore said: “Between us we have been established in South Devon for almost 300 years so this merger is a truly historic event. Indeed we even had a Wollen and a Hooper as partners in our firm in the 19th century, so our working relationship is tried and tested. Times move on, however, and whilst clients’ needs become more complex, communication has of course become easier. We have long respected each other’s strengths – even though we have sometimes been on opposite sides! The two firms are remarkably alike particularly in terms of their culture, ethos and work ethic. Both firms are known for developing strong, personal and lasting client relationships with individuals and businesses. We are both progressive and forward looking and are noted for going the extra mile and providing professional and quality legal services. We felt our specialisms would be stronger together.”

Both firms successfully obtained the Law Society management standard called Lexcel which is only awarded to firms who undergo a rigorous external audit of their internal procedures and standards.

Earlier this month, Hooper & Wollen launched the Quality Solicitors Law Shop South Devon in Torquay, Paignton and Dartmouth which offers both a shop-front walk in centre, and a legal information point in W H Smith in Torquay.

Chris Hart added: “All these changes are significant, and necessary, in order to drive us forward into an increasingly competitive time. From October, new legislation dubbed ‘Tesco law’ will enable banks and retail brands to provide legal services. We want to ensure that in order to compete with this we are offering not only the most highly skilled advice based on excellent local knowledge but that clients know they can rely on us for clear pricing, quick appointments and face to face contact.

“Significantly with this new development, rather than expanding into Exeter or Plymouth we are simply deepening our roots in South Devon. Our aim is that Wollen Michelmore will be the leading firm for South Devon, and that clients will turn to us for both our intimate understanding of the local community and our nationally recognised skills.”