A Bedford-based law firm has cemented itself as one of the largest (by volume) probate practices in England and Wales with its first acquisition of 2024.
Premier Solicitors has today (25th September) acquired Trustd Legal Services, a provider of direct-to-consumer services, for an undisclosed fee. Trustd currently offer probate, Will writing, and Conveyancing services through their website. Premier say the move sees the firm ‘further secure‘ their position as one of the largest by volume providers of probate services in England and Wales.
Premier Solicitors is a full service law firm and has invested significantly in its probate and estate administration services. It currently works alongside c. 1000 referral partners and, says Chief Revenue Officer David Masterton, is on an active acquisition strategy.
“We’re delighted to complete our first significant acquisition in the probate market for 2024. I have known James & Trustd for many years – James has built a great business and seen exceptional growth, especially over the last 18 months, so I’m looking forward to working with him, and the wider team as we step through the integration.
The addition of Trustd Legal Services, which is based in Coventry, will accelerate this ambition, says the firm ‘and will add and complement their current and future direct to consumer channels for probate, estate administration, and the associated ancillary services.’
Trustd Founder and CEO, James Long, added:
“At Trustd Legal Services, we have always focused on delivering trustworthy, high-quality, and sensibly priced probate services with compassion and approachability. Joining forces with Premier Solicitors offers the best possible opportunity for the brand to grow, leveraging the strength and depth of Premier’s legal expertise and customer service team, while also expanding the service offering.
“I’ve worked with Premier Solicitors for several years and have always been impressed by the approachability and integrity of their people, alongside the quality and speed of their work. This is an exciting opportunity and I will personally work to ensure a smooth transition and be on hand to support continued growth.”
Despite Premier’s growth, the probate market is still hugely fragmented with the top five providers in the UK accounting less than 15% of the total professional probate application volume per year, an opportunity David Masterton says means ‘there’s much room for further M&A, which I’m confident we’ll see more of across the industry.’
