Aussie firm Slater makes sixth post-float acquisition

Australian firm Slater & Gordon has made its sixth acquisition since becoming the world's first law firm to float on a stock exchange.

The firm has secured the personal injury and professional negligence practice areas of Quinn & Scattini Lawyers.

The deal, which is subject to formal documentation and due diligence, confirms Slater's aggressive assault on the legal market since it's A$35m (£14.67m) listing on the Australian stock exchange in May 2007.

The practices acquired from Quinn & Scattini generate annual revenues of approximately A$3m. They are led by partner Damian Scattini, who will take his 10-strong team to Slater's Brisbane and Gold Coast offices once the deal has been formally completed.

Last November Slater & Gordon snared Crane Butcher Mckinnon, Nagle & McGuire and Edwin Abdo & Associates having already acquired D-Arcys Solicitors in July and McClellands in August. The firm generated a A$10.65m net profit in 2007.

UK firms will be watching Slater & Gordon's progress after the Legal Services Act gave UK firms the green light to seek external funding or to float.