Oxfordshire firm Hedges Law secures private investment

Hedges Law has received backing from CKM3, a Henley-on-Thames-based investment office, as part of the launch of Oak Legal Group.

Oak Legal is a new professional services platform aimed at protecting the heritage of law firms in a consolidating market, with Hedges Law serving as its founding member.

Under the new model, law firms joining Oak Legal will retain their brand, leadership and local autonomy, while benefiting from collective investment, governance and operational expertise.

Nicola Poole, who has led Hedges Law for 14 years, said: “A deliberate step to build something fundamentally different in the legal market.

“Hedges has been part of Oxfordshire life for more than two centuries and we are incredibly proud of that heritage.

“Our ability to evolve is what has allowed us to sustain and continue to serve our clients for multiple generations. What we are doing now is genuinely new.

“This investment allows us to continue building on what makes the firm special while ensuring we remain well placed to support clients and communities across the county for many years to come.”

Hedges Law, which has served clients across Oxfordshire for more than 230 years, will continue to operate under its existing name and leadership team, with offices in Oxford, Chipping Norton and Wallingford.

Rebecca Kashti, director at Hedges Law, said: “We are not building for a short-term exit or pursuing growth at any cost.

“We are creating a platform of leading law firms that share the same values – where people and clients come first, and where culture is protected, not eroded.”

Oak Legal is targeting established firms in high-end locations with strong client relationships.

After the Hedges acquisition, the group has signed Heads of Terms with two further firms and is in advanced discussions with several others.

Colm McGinley, who will lead Oak Legal, said: “The strategy is to establish a group that is ‘greater than the sum of its parts.’

“It’s about backing great businesses and great people, not imposing a template.

“Too often, founders are forced to choose between selling to consolidators or private equity models that don’t reflect what they have built.

“We believe there is a better way – one that protects legacy, supports teams, and creates long-term value.”

This investment will enable Hedges Law to further invest in its people, technology and services while maintaining its long-standing presence and values.

The firm will continue to serve individuals, families, farms and businesses across the county and the Cotswolds, with decision-making remaining firmly rooted in the local community.