Weightmans shapes up for Vizards merger

The firm's merger with the litigation team at Vizard Oldham takes effect in May.
In anticipation of the new 70-partner Weightmans Vizards, the firm has identified six core areas and reordered its practices within them. They are: litigation, comprising transport, workplace and large loss; healthcare; public sector, including police, public authority and professional indemnity; comm-ercial, incorporating company, commercial property, commercial litigation; employment and licensing.
Deputy managing partner David Lewis said: "This strategic change has come at exactly the right time, with the opening of a London office on the horizon following the merger with the litigation team from Vizard Oldham. We're a commercially aware firm and this forward-thinking move helps us to deliver a consistent high-quality Weightmans package for clients and staff."
Each area has its own practice head to manage the teams and generate new business. The new structure has been designed to integrate similar practices across the firm's national offices. Department heads will have responsibility for firmwide teams. By focusing on practice area rather than location, the firm aims to boost its national brand.
Lewis said: "The main drive has been to enhance our strong client-focused culture, with them benefiting from easy access to the wide range of services provided."
The restructuring also brings the issue of best practice to prominence. In what is understood to be the first resource dedicated to best practice, partner Laura Wilkin will keep the firm abreast of developments affecting litigation.