Kennedys merges with marine specialist Waltons & Morse

Law firm Kennedys is to merge with marine and shipping law firm Waltons and Morse. The deal will create a £150 million business. The acquisition will come into effect on November 1, 2016.

Waltons and Morse’s managing partner, Chris Dunn, will head the new international marine team, which will be named Kennedys Marine, and will join the firm’s board.

The new business will remain domiciled in London but offices will move from Gracechurch Street to Fenchurch Avenue by the end of the year.

Dunn said: “I’ve known many of the partners at Kennedys for nearly ten years. We work for a lot of the same Lloyd’s syndicates and insurers. This is a merger of two very like-minded business.

“Our partners are attracted to Kennedys’ approachable and inclusive culture and their reputation for quality work in the re/insurance sector.

“A vast amount of our work involves clients and matters outside of the UK so the international infrastructure that Nick has created at Kennedys gives our talented team greater access to a well-established network of offices, along with an excellent foundation for further growth. We’re all looking forward to the continued development of our marine insurance and shipping practice.”

Nick Thomas, senior partner at Kennedys, added: “I’m thrilled to be able to announce a merger with an exceptional firm that shares the same sector focus as us. This merger is an excellent fit for us making an instant impact in marine insurance and shipping and allowing us to further our growth ambitions in areas where our clients need it.

“Marine insurance has been a strategic area of growth for Kennedys and so I am delighted to provide an exceptionally strong offering with Chris at the helm.”