EDINBURGH legal outfits Allan McDougall Solicitors and McQueen Legal have merged, continuing the trend for consolidation among Scotland’s high street law firms.

The enlarged entity, Allan McDougall McQueen, has seven partners and 73 staff working across nine offices in Edinburgh and the Lothians. Its combined income is £4 million.

Despite the merger, the business is planning to operate under two separate brands, with the private client, family and property teams trading as McDougall McQueen and the personal injury and employment practices retaining the name Allan McDougall Solicitors.

Allan McDougall managing partner Gordon Bathgate, who has retained the role at the new firm, said the firm’s brand was being retained for some services due to “its significant and historical reputation in these areas”.

He added that now they have combined the two firms would be focusing on organic growth “once new systems are bedded in”.

Former McQueen Legal managing partner Mary McQueen, who is a partner in the new firm, added: “Merging with Allan McDougall Solicitors allows us to expand our geographical reach and service offering without compromising our personal approach.”

There will be no job losses or office closures as a result of the deal.

This week also saw Glasgow firm Mitchells Roberton bulk up its practice after taking over fellow high street outfit Kerr Barrie. Earlier this year Mitchells Roberton took over west end business Adie Hunter.

Mitchells Roberton now has eight partners among a total headcount of 60.