HCR scoops up Wright Hassall in pre pack deal

Wright Hassall’s 179 year old practice has been transferred to HCR Law through a pre pack administration that drew a line under months of mounting financial strain and accelerating partner departures, according to filings and statements published after the transaction closed. The West Midlands firm filed a notice of intention to appoint administrators on 14 November, with Leonard Curtis partners Joph Young, Hilary Pascoe and Andrew Poxon positioned to take control before immediately completing the pre arranged sale.

The administration covered the core Wright Hassall business but excluded QDR Solicitors, the group’s debt collection arm. The buyer folded the acquired operations into its own platform and announced that the enlarged organisation will trade as HCR Wright Hassall from its Leamington Spa base. HCR, which has grown rapidly in recent years through a series of distressed acquisitions, said the combination leaves it with more than 1,000 staff across 12 locations and revenue in excess of one hundred million pounds.

Wright Hassall had faced years of pressure from falling headcount, tighter margins, and reduced profitability. Accounts for the year to March 2024 showed revenue of £17.7 million and a sharp drop in profit before members’ remuneration. The firm had also been in regular contact with the Solicitors Regulation Authority to report its deteriorating position. The pre pack transaction preserves client files and ongoing matters while transferring the existing workforce to a more stable platform.