Ryan McKay

The figures for the 2023/24 financial year show profits increased by six per cent on turnover growth of 1.4 per cent for the combined income of the Blackadders law firm and Blackadders Wealth Management LLP.

The year saw investment in improving staff benefits, new premises and upgrades to core IT infrastructure including a new case management system. All staff now have access to private health insurance and a medical cash back scheme.

As a result of this investment and consolidation, the overall headcount decreased from 220 to 180.

Ryan McKay, joint managing partner, said: “This has been another strong performance by the whole team. We have used resources to ensure we are an employer of choice within the profession by improving staff reward and investing in the best offices and technology.

“This is money well spent and will ensure we are better positioned for the predicted further growth the firm will enjoy over the coming years.”

Blackadders has a strategic aim to be proactive in the adoption of new legal technology and AI developments. In 2023, the firm established an AI and Legal Tech Committee which reports to the board and has overseen the roll out of new tools including Microsoft Co-Pilot.

Mr McKay added: “We have continued to review our operations across the firm to target areas of growth and to realise efficiency savings where appropriate without compromising quality of service. This will remain our strategy and performance indications for the current financial year remain strong.

“Another key aspect of our improving performance has been better and more true billing. Understanding the real value of our work to clients as well as regular and clear billing has helped increase turnover.”

Earlier this month, the firm moved to new office space in Dundee and has taken over one floor of the DC Thomson headquarters building in Meadowside.

Mr McKay commented: “There is no doubt this was an emotional but necessary move for everyone. The new office is a more flexible and comfortable place to work. It is also a more energy efficient and sustainable environment. Being in a new home with open plan working has already made it a much more vibrant office atmosphere for everyone.”