In a strategic move to enhance its offerings in the entertainment sector, a prominent London law firm has expanded its practice by acquiring a boutique firm renowned for its music expertise.
The acquisition sees Hamlins, a law firm with an impressive roster of high-profile clients, incorporating talent from the boutique practice Swan Turton, well-known for its entertainment industry work. This expansion strengthens Hamlins’ position, further boosting its capacity to offer specialised services.
Hamlins has grown its team to 100, including 20 partners, by adding three partners from Swan Turton: Stuart Barry, Julian Bentley, and Catherine Fehler. The acquisition also includes two fee-earners, two additional staff members, and three consultants led by Julian Turton, the firm’s founder.
Historically, Hamlins has been a dominant force in media and sport-related legal cases, notably involving phone hacking cases against News Group Newspapers. The firm represents prominent individuals such as Prince Harry and Clare Balding, as well as sports entities like the England and Wales Cricket Board. Commercial clients span a range of industries, including the retail sector with names like LEON Restaurants and NCP.
The boutique practice Swan Turton has also built a reputation for its work with musicians and performers. It counts among its clients renowned acts and artists like Madness and Underworld. This acquisition is therefore a complementary fit, enabling Hamlins to offer more comprehensive entertainment and copyright services.
Matthew Pryke, managing partner of Hamlins, described the acquisition as a significant step in the firm’s evolution. “This deal is a milestone in our evolution, bringing together two firms at the top of their game,” he noted, indicating that the merger of expertise allows both firms to expand their service offerings.
Julian Bentley, a founding partner of Swan Turton, cited the cultural and operational compatibilities between the two firms as a key reason for the merger, emphasising the synergies that will result from this strategic alignment.
Looking forward, Hamlins plans to continue its expansion through similar bolt-ons rather than large mergers. This strategy aims to preserve the firm’s established brand and organisational culture. Recent hires include Giles Bright, who joined as a commercial disputes partner, and Penny Hunt, a new head of employment.
Senior partner Joseph Holder highlighted the importance of increasing the firm’s visibility in the market. He remarked on the need for market recognition to achieve strategic goals, stating, “Our culture, clients and ambition make us an attractive proposition for other lawyers in a competitive market for talent.”
This acquisition marks a pivotal moment for Hamlins, symbolising its commitment to growth and diversification in the competitive legal landscape. The integration of Swan Turton’s music sector expertise with Hamlins’ robust client base aims to deliver enhanced legal services across the entertainment and media sectors.
