We are pleased to announce that the firm’s Manchester office, which is currently branded as Potter Rees Dolan following an acquisition in October 2022, will take on the Hugh James brand, effective from 1 December. The milestone marks one year since the two firms joined forces, strengthening their serious injury and clinical negligence practice, and expanding the firm’s presence in the Northwest.
From December, the “Hugh James” name replaces “PRD – a Hugh James Business”, as the Manchester practice was known in the first twelve months of the partnership. In that time, the firm has increased the number of partners from nine to 12, taking the total number of staff to 76, from 65.
The news comes as their combined strengths are recognised by the legal directories. Hugh James is now ranked Band 1 for the Northwest in Chambers and Partners, building on the strong reputation law firm PRD has built in the region. The full-service law firm retains its strong standing, with 29 departments ranked across the main directory and High Net Worth edition and 61 ranked lawyers at Hugh James’ headquarters in Cardiff and UK offices.
Announced 12 months ago, PRD identified us as the ideal successor-firm which would present its Manchester offices as part of a national practice. Hugh Potter and Helen Dolan have continued to lead and manage the office in Manchester, working with the wider Hugh James management team, to ensure a smooth transition and seamless client service.
As the countdown continues to 1 December, clients in the Northwest can expect a seamless transition as the rebrand takes effect. With shared values, the firm will continue to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and excellent client service that both brands are known for – the only thing that will change, is the name.
Speaking of the new chapter, Managing Partner at Hugh James, Alun Jones commented:
“When Hugh James established its presence in Manchester one year ago, we did so in collaboration with PRD under a hybrid brand to honour the excellent reputation Hugh and Helen had built in the North. Since then, our successful partnership approach has delivered great results, enhanced the services we provide our clients, and seen us grow and strengthen the reputation of our legal teams. On the first anniversary of our partnership, we are pleased to start the countdown to bring the whole team together as part of the Hugh James brand and are confident that our clients and partners will be as reassured as we are come 1st December.”
