Clifford Chance LLP's operating profits fell 5% last year to £260 million, while its pensions deficit continued to grow.

The figures are contained with the firm's latest LLP accounts, posted on Companies House.

The firm continues to grapple with one of the highest pension deficits of any U.K. law firm, with its obligations rising £1 million this year to £284 million—an overall improvement, however, on its £341 million net obligation in 2017. The firm said in its account statement that it aims to "eliminate the scheme's deficit by May 31, 2026".