Logistics company Stobart Group is to launch a law firm to complement its direct access barristers service after receiving an alternative business licence (ABS) from the Solicitors Regulation Authority.

One Legal, which was set up by Stobart Group legal director and Stobart Barristers founder Trevor Howarth, will primarily provide litigation advice relating to insurance claims.

As the Stobart Group also operates a claims management business, Stobart Claims Management, Howarth said it is now in the position to offer a one-stop-shop for insurance claims.

Howarth said: "Applying for the ABS was a natural progression from what we already have in terms of claims management. Due to changes in the legal landscape we now have the ability to broker insurance, manage claims and handle the litigation."

Howarth said that a further announcement on plans for the new venture would be made in the next few weeks.

The Stobart Barristers service, which was launched in May last year, now draws on a panel of more than 1,000 barristers, according to Howarth. The business, which provides advice on both personal and business legal issues, is ahead of its targets, according to Howarth, with areas such as family and matrimonial performing particularly well.

Howarth believes the launch of the solicitors service will also see an increase in cases brought via Stobart Barristers.

"The solicitors' service gives another area to pollinate the business – each complement each other. Gaining the licence is the final piece in the jigsaw," he said.