Law firm’s headcount exceeds 300 after strategic takeover

Yorkshire law firm Ison Harrison has acquired Leeds-based Cohen Cramer Solicitors, which has a nationwide client base.

The beginnings of Cohen Cramer’s business date back to 1980, when Howard Cohen & Co. was founded.

In 2009, the firm merged with Cramer Richards to form Cohen Cramer. Since then, the firm has built a reputation for specializing in personal injury, regulatory and criminal law, as well as animal, family law, dispute resolution and legal costs.

The company, which employs four directors and 27 staff, had a turnover of more than £3 million last year.

The acquisition sees Ison Harrison further expand its presence in the region, increasing its total headcount to over 300 and opening 20 offices across Yorkshire.

Jonathan Wearing, Managing Director of Ison Harrison, said: “This acquisition demonstrates our continued commitment to providing exceptional and accessible legal services across Yorkshire.

“By partnering with the specialist lawyers at Cohen Cramer, we are not only expanding our team, but also increasing our ability to provide clients with a broader and more comprehensive range of legal services.

“Cohen Cramer’s strong regulatory and criminal law skills complement our existing practice areas perfectly, and their focus on military and animal injury claims will greatly enhance our personal injury practice.

“We are stronger and more versatile than ever before.”

In 2022, Ison Harrison transformed into a 100% employee-owned business. The company says the new structure has fueled continued growth, with significant client expansion and the opening of four new offices.

Wearing added: “Our employee ownership model is a key driver of our success. It ensures that every member of our team is committed to the success of the business, fostering a culture of engagement and excellence that directly benefits our clients.”

Emma Mason, Managing Director of Cohen Cramer, said: “Joining forces with Ison Harrison is an incredible opportunity for us.

“The company’s strong reputation and broad regional presence will strengthen our ability to provide our clients with the highest level of service.

“We are proud to be part of an innovative, employee-owned firm that shares our passion for client-focused legal practice. We are a great fit.”