'Super consultancy' for law firms launches

360 Legal Group's legal consulting services have been purchased by Symphony Legal to create a new 'super consultancy' for law firms.

Symphony was formed at the end of 2015 by a number of the 360 Legal Group team. The new firm has taken over delivery of all services related to membership and consultancy previously delivered by 360 Legal Group.

Meanwhile, the remainder of 360 Legal Group is to merge with SIFA Limited to focus its legal services advice and business development capability around the rapidly growing number of law firms that have relationships with professional financial advisers.

SJ contributor Viv Williams is to head up the new consultancy and provide strategy and practical solution to all firms looking to grow, merge, or sell.

'We have forensic accountants, marketing and business development specialists,' explains Williams. 'Turnaround merger and acquisition are also a large part of the work. We also have compliance, LEXCEL, and ABS application services.

'Most of the consultancy businesses serving the legal profession are individuals. Once they take an interim position they are unable to take another. By building a "super consultancy" we have significant depth to be able to offer banks and insurance companies the alternative consultants and give them the confidence in depth of numbers.'

Williams told SJ the consultancy is in discussions with several high-profile individuals looking to join the network.

The Symphony team is to be joined by Steve Billot, who has advised over 300 legal service firms, including members of the elite top 50.

Billot acts as a strategic consultant and his roles include non-executive participation on law firm boards and providing assistance on proposed mergers and general business advice.

He also undertakes training for the Solicitors Regulation Authority, the Law Society, and R3.

Commenting on the move, Billot said: 'I am delighted to have been invited to join with Viv Williams and his consulting colleagues at Symphony Legal.

'In a fast-changing world our combination of skills and experiences mean we can assist our clients no matter what opportunities or challenges they encounter.'

Symphony Legal will also continue to provide national consultancy services around marketing, compliance, financial management, exit and succession planning, and people management from an office in Weston Super Mare.

All current members and clients were notified of the changes before Christmas and their membership has now automatically been transferred to the new consultancy.

Symphony Legal is to hold a launch conference on 18 April in conjunction with NatWest. The event is open for any law firm to attend with further details will be announced shortly.

Williams advised there is demand from the personal injury sector and legal aid firms for advice, as well as numerous merger opportunities for both buyers and sellers.

Read more on Williams's predictions for 2016 in his latest practice note.

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