Penman Sedgwick set to merge with EMW

Penman Sedgwick and EMW have announced they are to merge; Penman Sedgwick will become part of the EMW family which further strengthens EMW’s service offering and regional footprint. The transaction is expected to complete on 31 March.

The merger brings together two law firms with a shared commitment to clear, practical and client focused legal advice, underpinned by strong cultural alignment and a common approach to client service.

Penman Sedgwick is one of the leading law firms in Watford and Hertfordshire. Based in Watford, the practice has a long history of providing expert legal services to businesses and individuals, dating back as far as 1836. Its reputation has been built on deep local roots, technical expertise, and a commitment to delivering high-quality legal advice with professionalism and care.

EMW is a full-service law firm with offices in Milton Keynes, Northampton, Watford, London and Brighton, supporting clients nationally and internationally, and has a rapidly growing presence in Hertfordshire for the last decade. The firm is people focused and puts clients first, delivering clear, practical and results driven legal advice. EMW’s lawyers work collaboratively to support individuals and businesses across a wide range of matters, combining technical expertise with a commitment to clarity, care and professionalism.

Commenting on the merger, James Geary, Managing Partner at EMW, said:
“This is an exciting step for EMW and a natural fit for both firms. Penman Sedgwick shares our values, our approach to client service and our belief in clear, practical advice. Bringing the Penman Sedgwick team into the EMW family strengthens our collective offering and allows us to support clients with even greater depth and reach.”

Claire Miller, Partner at Penman Sedgwick added: “Joining the EMW family is a positive move for our clients and our people. We have always focused on delivering expert advice in a clear and approachable way, and EMW’s culture and values align closely with our own. This merger gives our clients access to broader resources while maintaining the personal service they value.”

Clients of both firms will continue to receive the same high level of service, with no immediate impact on existing relationships or ongoing matters. Clients will be contacted directly with further information ahead of completion.

Mike Lewis, Partner, EMW

Claire Miller, Partner, Penman Sedgwick

James Geary, Managing Partner, EMW

Caroline Kernanec, Partner, Penman Sedgwick

Stuart Mercer, Partner, Penman Sedgwick

Terence Ritchie, Partner, EMW