Two of North Kent's leading legal firms, which have offices in the same street, have merged.

Medway solicitors Stephens & Son LLP, based in Railway Street, Chatham, have joined forces with neighbouring firm Redfern Stigant.

There will be no job losses and more lawyers are to be recruited for specialist areas.

The merger is a homecoming for Stephens & Sons' managing partner Jacqueline Shicluna, who trained at Redfern Stigant before qualifying as a solicitor in 1988.

Jacqueline Shicluna said: "Both firms have operated virtually side by side for many years, offering similar services, assistance and representation to individuals and businesses.

"The merger will not affect staffing levels but will enable us to offer an even better service to the clients of both firms by reinforcing our specialist areas of work, particularly trusts, wills and probate; civil litigation and personal injury. We expect to be recruiting some further fee earners (solicitors, legal executives or paralegals) in about six months' time."

Following the merger, which was formalised this week, staff from both firms will be based at the Stephens & Sons' offices at 41 Railway Street.