A large UK law firm network operating more than 20 practices across Yorkshire, Cumbria and Berkshire has reportedly ceased trading with little warning, leaving dozens of staff and clients facing uncertainty.
PM Law Limited, which included over 55 fee-earners alongside support teams, is understood to have informed employees of the closure with immediate effect. Numerous former staff members have since shared messages on LinkedIn expressing shock and distress, with many now seeking new roles.
Attempts to contact the firm’s offices, including its Sheffield head office, have reportedly been unsuccessful, with phone lines either unanswered or disconnected.
Regulator seeking answers
The Solicitors Regulation Authority has confirmed it is seeking clarification from the firm’s partners following reports from affected clients. The regulator indicated that the closure had not taken place in the usual or expected manner and said it would remind those involved of their professional obligations.
At this stage, no formal intervention has been confirmed.
Staff and client concerns
Several former employees have described being informed of job losses without prior notice or guidance on how to manage ongoing client matters. One trainee solicitor described the situation as “heartbreaking”, calling for accountability and clarity for both staff and clients.
Another solicitor reported losing access to client files with no immediate means of communication, raising concerns about continuity of legal representation.
Financial position and group firms
According to the firm’s most recent published accounts, PM Law Limited reported net assets exceeding £3 million, though it held no cash reserves and faced significant short-term creditor obligations.
The wider group included a number of trading names and regional practices, including property and conveyancing firms, as well as long-established local solicitors’ offices.
A branch operated under the Butterworths name in Kendal has also reportedly closed, with signage indicating regulatory issues affecting the wider group’s ability to trade.
Ongoing developments
The regulator has stated that affected parties should be contacted as soon as possible if the firm has indeed closed, and further updates are expected once enquiries are completed.
This situation continues to develop, and further regulatory action may follow depending on the findings.
