Hamlins

West End firm Hamlins is targeting a total revenue of £9.5m and average profit per equity partner (PEP) of £345,000 by the end of 2012–13, figures that would represent a considerably uplift on where the property-dominated practice stood two years ago.

Back then in 2010–11 both total revenue and PEP had fallen, to £8.4m and £290,000 respectively. But in 2011–12 the 21-partner firm’s finances began showing an upward trajectory thanks to a ramped up recruitment campaign, some major deals and cases and a fresh willingness to embrace marketing.

Headline matters included a major defamation claim against Associated Newspapers, led by partner Chris Hutchings; the £65m sale of the Travel Channel; and a victory for live streaming internet business TVCatchup in a dispute with various broadcasters including ITV and BSkyB.

In 2011–12 Hamlins’ turnover reached £9m while PEP hit £303,000. Despite the stronger figures, managing partner Nigel Mason admitted 2011–12 had been partly characterised by continued fee pressure and a number of aborted transactions.

In 2011–12 property generated 39 per cent of the firm's revenue while litigation contributed 28 per cent. Corporate chipped in 16 per cent of revenue.