Macnabs’ five partners and 39 employees will transfer to Thorntons when the merger takes place on 31 March 2025.

Thorntons can trace its roots back to 1857. The firm, which has offices at Whitefriars Crescent in Perth, has had a presence in the city since 1993.

Founded in 1880, Macnabs focuses on family law, wills and estate planning, employment law, litigation, property conveyancing as well as services for businesses.

Lesley Larg, managing partner, Thorntons said: “This merger represents a significant milestone in our continued growth strategy, reinforcing our commitment to providing exceptional legal services across Scotland. It will further strengthen our presence across Perthshire and Stirlingshire and provide personal and business clients with access to extended legal expertise and support.

“Macnabs has an excellent reputation in supporting clients navigate complex legal matters. Many of its relationships span generations, and its strong focus on client partnerships will serve as the foundation for the positive journey we will now undertake together.

“Like Macnabs, we have an unwavering dedication to do right by our clients and this has allowed us to establish exceptionally longstanding relationships. We take pride in our commitment to exceeding expectations and act as trusted advisers, anticipating challenges and delivering innovative legal solutions that align with specific needs. Thorntons has undertaken several successful mergers in recent years. As ever, our paramount priorities are for the people in both firms and, of course, the clients. Putting their needs first is vital both now and for the future.”

Ruth Croman, managing partner at Macnabs, said: “Thorntons is one of Scotland’s leading independently owned law firms which shares our commitment to excellent client care and developing great careers for colleagues.

“At Macnabs we have always been ambitious and have targeted continued growth which we have done successfully, ensuring our firm was in a strong position. When we entered into discussions with Thorntons, it was because we wanted to explore what was next, and to listen to what they had to say. While a larger firm than Macnabs, it still retains a strong people-focused culture which has been evident throughout the merger discussions. It has a proven record of continued investment in its people, business and technology, and provides a strong and supportive environment for our team to thrive.”