A 162-year-old law firm has revealed a new name seven months after it merged with one of its Kent rivals.

Founded in 1852, Cripps has been launched following the union of Cripps Harries Hall and Vertex Law in September.

Brought together to primarily to strengthen Cripps’ corporate work, the rebrand is designed to portray the company as a “modern law firm”.

It is the latest move in a busy year for the business, which also opened new offices in Discovery Park, Sandwich, in November.

Founded in Tunbridge Wells with bases in Kings Hill and London, the firm has seen turnover grow to nearly £23m from about £18m since the companies came together.

In February, it revealed plans to build a new headquarters in the Royal Wells Park development in Tunbridge Wells, which it aims to move its 300 staff into in 2016.

The rebrand is the culmination of six months’ work with guidance from branding specialist Bruce Webster.

Cripps senior partner Michael Stevens said: “This is about much more than just a new logo.

“We have worked with our colleagues to define what it means to be part of Cripps and how we orientate ourselves so that we are entirely focused on the needs of our clients.

“It is a case of understanding their objectives and how we can help them achieve those goals as easily as possible and at reasonable cost.

“The legal world is changing and here at Cripps we are proud to be at the forefront of establishing how a modern law firm needs to operate – and the benefits to clients and colleagues from having a dynamic, forward-looking culture.”

Cripps managing partner Gavin Tyler said: “The merger has more than delivered on our hopes and expectations.

“We have come together as a single team, stronger than the constituent parts, united under a new brand, and committed to delivering an excellent service to our clients.

“We have also enjoyed a strong financial performance, providing us with the resources for further investment in the business and future growth and development.”

Read a full interview with Gavin Tyler on the Cripps rebrand inside this month’s Kent Business.