The leading directory of lawyer ratings, Chambers and Partners, has been acquired by a private equity team, led by award-winning legaltech publisher Mark Wyatt, for an undisclosed sum. The company, which rates over 80,000 lawyers and law firms by practice area in almost 200 jurisdictions, was bought by mid-market private equity company Inflexion. Founder Michael Chambers has exited the business which will be run by Mr Wyatt as chief executive officer with Steve Halbert, current chairman of Alcumus, an Inflexion portfolio company, and former head of UK M&A at KPMG, chairman of the new company.The business had a turnover of £20 million last year.

Global expansion

The rankings are relied upon by corporates when selecting their legal advisers and by law firms and individual lawyers to support their business marketing activities. The specialised research and analysis that Chambers undertakes is recognised  and trusted by the legal profession globally. The aim is to continue Chambers’ global expansion, strengthen its digital presence and launch new products. 

Best rankings and research

Simon Turner, managing partner of Inflexion, commented: 'The legal services market is a large and growing market which we have tracked for a number of years. Chambers benefits from a leading, global position and a reputation for providing the best rankings and research in the industry. There are multiple opportunities for the business to develop its market leading position internationally and through an enhanced digital offering. We look forward to working with the management team as Chambers embarks on this exciting growth strategy.'

Trusted approach

Mark Wyatt, chief executive officer, commented: 'Chambers is a great business with a superb team. Their unique and trusted research approach combined with cutting edge analysis makes Chambers’s data indispensable. Inflexion is the perfect partner to support the business and our team on the next stage of our journey. Inflexion’s international presence is well suited to our expansion plans, particularly with their Asia and US experience. Additionally, their digital focus will be invaluable as we drive our online presence forward.' The Inflexion deal team comprised Mark Williams, Chloe Holding, Tom Green and Richard Swann whilst Addleshaws advised.

Inflexion

Inflexion is a UK mid-market private equity firm, investing in high growth, entrepreneurial businesses with ambitious management teams and working in partnership with them to accelerate growth. It typically invests £10m to £150m of equity in each deal.