Ellis Jones acquires specialist criminal and motoring law firm

A legal practice which specialises in all areas of criminal and motoring law has been acquired by Ellis Jones Solicitors for an undisclosed sum. The Jonathan Morrissey Practice, which also goes under the name JM Law, formally became part of Ellis Jones from February 1st 2016.

Five members of staff, including founder and Head of Crime Jon Morrissey, have transferred to Ellis Jones. Previously they were based at JM Law’s offices in Old Christchurch Road, Bournemouth.

Founded in 1993, JM Law is headed by Mr Morrissey who during the course of a 30-year career has handled every type of criminal offence from murder, manslaughter and robbery to fraud, drug trafficking and serious sex offences.

In the motoring world, Mr Morrissey specialises in all areas from manslaughter and causing death by dangerous driving to a multitude of drink driving allegations as well as careless driving and speeding allegations. A particular speciality is the preservation of driving licences following a client’s accumulation of penalty points.

Mr Morrissey, who was Deputy Coroner for Bournemouth, Poole and East Dorset from 2000 to 2010, is also a specialist in the law surrounding inquests and coroner’s courts.

Nigel Smith, Ellis Jones’ Managing Partner, said: “I have known Jon for many years and, without doubt, he is one of the most experienced and accomplished criminal defence lawyers in the UK.

“Over the course of the last 23 years JM Law has become the largest specialist criminal practice in the Bournemouth and Poole area. Opportunities to acquire such a highly regarded firm are rare and I am delighted that Jon and his dedicated team have become part of the talented team at Ellis Jones.”

Mr Morrissey added: “I am very excited to become part of the team here, particularly as it presents me with the ideal opportunity to represent my clients properly, thoroughly and to the best of my ability, giving them a first class service rather than being hamstrung by the constraints now being faced by those represented on Legal Aid. I have no doubt that our relationship will be a long and happy one.”