Weightmans is set to merge with Mace & Jones, creating a UK top 50 firm with combined fee income of around £75m.

The merger, which will go live on 1 May, follows national firm Weightmans' acquisition of the insurance division of Vizards Wyeth, which was confirmed earlier this month.

The merged firm, which will retain the Weightmans name, will have total headcount in excess of 1,000.

Weightmans managing partner Patrick Gaul (pictured) said: "We are absolutely delighted to announce this merger. As the talks with Mace & Jones have progressed it has become increasingly clear that our two firms are very well matched.

"We have similar cultures and values and a shared commitment to maintaining the highest standards in our dealings with our people and clients. The merged firm will be a major national player with strength in depth across every area of its practice."

Mace & Jones managing partner Richard Corran added: "Weightmans' national reach will also allow us the opportunity to tap into new markets in London and the Midlands, as well as offering a wider range of services to existing clients."

The Weightmans and Vizards deal – which includes Vizards' Dartford office – will take effect on 1 April this year, with around 25 lawyers joining Weightmans, including 13 partners.

It is still unclear what will happen to the remaining staff at Vizards which, according to the firm's website, includes 19 partners.

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