Firms merging

There are several points to settle Ii your firm intends to merge with another before contacting us to enter the new firm on FAMS. These include:

• What firm code will you use? You may either keep one of the existing firm codes or ask for a new one.
• If the new firm is going to keep one of the codes, what do you want us to do with the other firm’s details? Should we delete them from the central database? Will more branches be needed for the new firm?
• What is the new firm’s name?
• What is the effective start date of the new firm?
• Which solicitors will need a link to the new firm and should we delete their link to the old firm?
• What is the position with VAT registration (if appropriate)?

The merging firms may also have accounts they have already sent us that are currently waiting to be paid. We will pay these into the bank account of the firm shown on the Account Synopsis Form. The firm should ensure that the correct firm and branch code are recorded on the Account Synopsis Form for future accounts.

Each of the parties concerned must confirm in writing any decisions the partners within each of the former firms make that would affect details we hold.

Within three working days of being told in writing of the merger we will:

• Send the firm the appropriate registration form and mandate.
• Send individual registration forms to those solicitors who need a link to this firm.

Merging firms should also consider whether the procedures (for civil or criminal) used by each firm will remain the same or whether they will be consolidated into one common version.