Bendles Solicitors To Acquire Atkinson Ritson In Latest Cumbria Expansion Category
Cumbrian law firm Bendles Solicitors has confirmed it will acquire Atkinson Ritson Solicitors from 1 September 2026, marking its second major expansion this year as it strengthens its presence and legal expertise across the county.
The acquisition follows Bendles' merger with Gaynham King & Mellor Solicitors in April 2026 and will further extend the firm's geographical reach. Once completed, Bendles will operate from offices in Carlisle, Wigton, Whitehaven, Penrith, Appleby, and Kirkby Stephen, while also incorporating Atkinson Ritson's existing operations.
As part of the agreement, all 20 employees from Atkinson Ritson, including its three directors, will join Bendles, taking the combined workforce to more than 100 staff. The move is expected to strengthen the firm's capabilities across agriculture, family law, commercial and residential property, and wills, trusts, and estates.
Managing Partner John Stevenson described the acquisition as another important step in the firm's long term growth strategy. He said Atkinson Ritson is a well respected and established practice whose expertise will provide greater strength and depth while expanding the firm's ability to serve clients across a larger geographical area.
Stevenson also reassured existing clients that there would be no disruption to legal services during the transition. Current contacts, ongoing cases, and day to day operations will continue with the same teams providing advice and support after the acquisition is completed.
Kate Wheeler, a director at Atkinson Ritson, welcomed the agreement, describing it as the coming together of two long established Cumbrian firms. She said both organisations share a commitment to delivering high quality legal services and looked forward to continuing that work under the Bendles name.
The transaction reflects continued consolidation within Cumbria's legal sector, with firms seeking to broaden specialist expertise and improve services while maintaining strong local relationships. The acquisition is scheduled to complete on 1 September 2026.
Got a news story or tip to share? Contact our editorial team by emailing news@lakelandpost.co.uk or call us directly on 0333 090 2080.