Frettens has announced the acquisition of specialist employment law firm Kemps Solicitors.

The landmark acquisition sees Michelle Kemp becoming Partner and Head of Frettens’ Employment Law team, strengthening the firm’s commercial offering.

It will also see Kate Fretten returning to the firm as a consultant in the department she founded 17 years ago.

Managing Partner Matthew Fretten said: “This is great news for Frettens and our clients.

“The commercial side of our business has grown significantly in recent years. Adding fantastic lawyers with such experience further strengthens our offer to business clients.

“The employment at Frettens is now one of the most experienced in the conurbation. Very few firms have three specialist employment lawyers and we believe we have three of the best in Michelle, Chris and Kate.

“Having worked with Kemps on a number of matters, we know they are the perfect fit for Frettens. They pride themselves on offering clear, pragmatic, commercial advice to their clients in the same way we do.

“I am absolutely delighted that Michelle chose to join us and am thrilled for that the move means for both Frettens’ and Kemps’ clients.”

Michelle added: “It is fantastic news for our clients. They now have additional employment specialists to support and advise them, as well as a large commercial team who can offer broader advice on a range of commercial matters.

“When I was considering merging Kemps into a larger firm, Frettens were the first that came to mind and the only one I could see myself working at.

“My main concern was ensuring that our clients continue to receive the same outstanding service and I have no doubt that they will. I have worked with Frettens on a number of cases with my clients and would regularly refer work to their commercial teams.

“Everyone I have met has been extremely welcoming and I can’t wait to get to know everyone properly. It feels like a great fit.”

Kate, who is returning to Frettens as a consultant in the employment department she founded back in 2007, said: “Frettens has changed significantly since I left a few years ago. The firm has more than doubled in size and opened new offices.

“There are so many new faces to get to know but, reassuringly, there are still plenty of familiar ones. Whilst the place is almost unrecognisable, it has still retained the same feel.

“I am excited to get to work.”

Frettens is set to hold an employment seminar for employers at the Chewton Glen hotel on 21st February, which will see Michelle, Chris and Kate delivering an employment law update touching on recent legislative changes and their impact for employers, followed by lunch.

Click here to book a space.

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