Walker Morris joins Co-op in personal injury cull

Leeds firm Walker Morris is closing its personal injury department, with the loss of 48 jobs.

The news came on the same day that the Co-op announced a restructuring exercise in its personal injury division next year, though it would not confirm reports of up to 60 redundancies.

A spokeswoman for Walker Morris said: "As a result of the LASPO changes and the continuing turmoil in the personal injury market place Walker Morris has taken the decision to withdraw from this market.

"Over the last 12 months the firm has sought to refocus its personal injury business by investing in a rebrand and a 'direct to market' approach. The refocus has not achieved the results that we anticipated.

"This combined with continuing uncertainty in the market and the inevitable shift towards a more process, volume-driven approach, has led the firm to conclude that continued involvement in the PI market does not fit with its long term strategy."

Managing partner Ian Gilbert added: "Despite having a very capable and committed team within Distinctly Legal, unfortunately the significant structural changes which have occurred in the PI market recently and those changes which we believe will occur in the future, have led us regrettably, to conclude that this is not a market in which Walker Morris can differentiate itself as well as building a strong recognisable brand.

"We have therefore decided to withdraw from the PI market and focus on our successful core business."

Earlier today Co-operative Legal Services announced that it was restructuring its personal injury division next year.

"We have announced a restructuring of our personal injury division and formal consultation with staff will begin in the new year," a spokesman said.

"We are keen to consult with colleagues in the first instance and are unable to provide further details at this stage."