Cullimore Dutton Solicitors, one of Chester’s oldest family law firms, has acquired long-standing Chester IFA firm, Yates & Co.

Founded by Phil Yates in 1994, the independent mortgage, pensions and investments advisers joined the 225-year-old solicitors’ practice earlier this month.

Yates & Co principal, Phil Yates, investment adviser, Gareth Williams plus two administrative support staff have transferred across to Cullimore Dutton’s White Friars-based premises and now function under the Cullimore Dutton brand. This addition expands Cullimore Dutton’s existing long standing financial services business.

It is the latest bold move in what has been a transformative modernisation programme for the historic family law firm that began in 2016.

This period has seen changes implemented across all areas, from business structure to client relations and marketing, all with the aim of modernising the firm whilst maintaining traditional values.

Cullimore Dutton managing director, Andrew Wright, said: “Bringing in a first-class mortgage adviser with Phil’s credentials perfectly complements both our residential property department and existing in-house independent financial adviser.

“It means we can now offer a 360 degree service to clients across the income spectrum, from first time buyers getting on the housing ladder under the Help To Buy scheme to some of the most well-established farming families and landed estates in Cheshire and North Wales, to retirees looking to release equity on their property.

“Phil and the team arrive with a loyal client base and a proven commitment to delivering independent advice with exceptional levels of service that mirrors our own. It’s a neat fit.”

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