Law firms Macnabs and Thorntons are merging in a deal that will strengthen their market position in Perthshire and Stirlingshire.

Five partners and 39 employees of Macnabs will transfer to Thorntons when the merger takes place on 31 March.

The merged firm will be known as Thorntons with 77 partners and 560 employees.

Both firms can trace their roots to the 19th century and Thorntons has grown significantly in recent years.  It has offices across Scotland including Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee and Inverness.

Lesley Larg, managing partner at Thorntons said: “This merger represents a significant milestone in our continued growth strategy.

“It will further strengthen our presence across Perthshire and Stirlingshire and provide personal and business clients with access to extended legal expertise and support.”

Ruth Croman, managing partner at Macnabs, said: “We have always been ambitious and have targeted continued growth which we have done successfully, ensuring our firm was in a strong position.

“When we entered into discussions with Thorntons, it was because we wanted to explore what was next, and to listen to what they had to say.

“It has a proven record of continued investment in its people, business and technology, and provides a strong and supportive environment for our team to thrive.  

“We genuinely believe that this next step safeguards the firm’s legacy. We have been planning this merger for some time and I and other partners are excited to start work in the newly enlarged firm.”