Fri, 09 May 2025 | BUSINESS SALE
Teesside law firm Tilly, Bailey & Irvine (TBI) has expanded into the city of Sunderland with its acquisition of Scanlans Solicitors. Founded nearly 40 years ago, Scanlans has developed into a specialist in criminal law.
The deal gives TBI Law its fifth office, with the city centre location adding to the firm's existing sites in Stockton, Barnard Castle and Wynard. In addition, the acquisition will see around 15 members of Scanlans staff join the TBI team, which is already around 200-strong.
Following the takeover, TBI Law will offer a wider range of services from the former Scanlans offices. Serving both individuals and businesses, the company will provide services including corporate and commercial law, family law and personal injury.
The acquisition continues a recent period of growth for TBI, which is one of the North East’s oldest law firms, having been established in 1842. Over recent years, the company has increased its turnover, while undertaking continuous investment in the business, developing legal expertise across the main branches of criminal, commercial and family law.
TBI Law partner Neil Taylor said: "This marks an exciting new chapter for TBI Law. We have been serving communities since 1842 and our team is known for being dedicated to legal excellence whilst maintaining a strong client-focused approach, values very much aligned with family-owned Scanlans.”
"We will be building on Scanlans' legacy while bringing our expertise and resources to offer new legal services to clients in the city."
The Sunderland office will be headed up by Heather Bolton, who has joined TBI Law as a partner. Bolton said that Scanlans’ clients “can be assured that they will continue to be represented by the same staff who have always provided them with the exceptional service we’ve become known for”.
She continued: “It will also mean important new services for those clients, who will further benefit from the collective expertise available through TBI Law.”
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