Fast-growing firm makes third acquisition of 2024 and plans to grow team in the capital

Full-service law firm Gilson Gray has continued on its acquisition trail, with the addition of City of London-based PCM Solicitors.

Founded by senior partner Paul Critchley in September 2009, PCM Solicitors specialises in family and property law, prioritising a high-quality and bespoke offering. It provides services to clients in London and the South East and was among the first practices to achieve Conveyancing Quality Scheme (CQS) accreditation from The Law Society in 2011.

PCM Solicitors’ full team will join Gilson Gray, with Paul Critchley transitioning to a new role within the firm’s property offering. Gilson Gray will also begin recruiting for a head of operations in London, with ambitious plans to further grow its presence in the capital, offering a full range of legal, property, and financial management services.

The deal represents Gilson Gray’s first step into London and the South East. The Edinburgh-headquartered firm already has a strong presence in the north of England through its Lincoln office, following the purchase of Home Property Lawyers (HPL) in 2022.

PCM Solicitors becomes Gilson Gray’s third acquisition of 2024, after the firm announced deals for Edinburgh’s MHD and Bowmans Solicitors in Forfar earlier this year. With offices in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee, East Lothian, Aberdeen, Lincoln, Angus and now London, Gilson Gray is one of the fastest-growing law firms in the UK.

Glen Gilson, chair and managing partner of Gilson Gray, said: “As part of our national expansion, it is important to avail ourselves of the most lucrative markets and access the strongest talent pools. London represents an important strategic development for the business, and we expect to create further presence in other cities in due course. We will announce additional London appointments shortly, as we look to replicate our group service platform across the UK.”

Paul Critchley added: “We were impressed with Gilson Gray’s plans for growth, the range of services it can offer to our clients, and the opportunities it opens up to our staff – the vast of majority of whom have been with us for many years. With phenomenal client satisfaction rates and an excellent team, I’m sure we will be a feather in Gilson Gray’s cap. We have always punched above our weight and, in this next phase, we can realise the firm’s full potential. With a great deal of alignment in our values and approach to business, we are excited to join the Gilson Gray fold.”