National law firm Slater & Gordon has today announced its first move overseas - with the acquisition ofUnited Kingdom (UK) law firm, Russell Jones & Walker (RJW).

Slater & Gordon announced its intention to acquire RJW in an announcement to the ASX this evening. It isthe law firm's largest acquisition to date.

Slater & Gordon managing director Andrew Grech said RJW, which has approximately 425 staff, across 10locations in the UK, was the ideal partner for Slater & Gordon in the UK.

"We have researched the UK market for the past three years and studied more than 30 law firms in the UK,"Mr Grech said.

"RJW has a history and values that are very similar to Slater & Gordon and the firm has a management teamthat can see the opportunities that lie ahead in the UK market.

"We will be among the first to take advantage of a number of significant changes which are occurring in thelegal profession in the UK," Mr Grech said.

"Both, Slater & Gordon and our new colleagues at RJW believe that the changes present an enormousopportunity for those who are prepared.

"Our experience as a listed public company gives us a head start on other law firms in the UK."

Mr Grech said the announcement would also deliver benefits to clients and staff in Australia.

"In Australia we will continue our growth strategy and we will keep focussed on what we are here to do -provide affordable legal services for everyday Australians.

"However, the announcement will bring benefits to clients for legal cases which cross internationaljurisdictions and it will bring benefits to staff though exchange opportunities.

"Subject to regulatory approval, the acquisition of Russell Jones & Walker should be completed by April. Thefull text of today's announcement can be found on the website of the Australian Securities Exchange(www.asx.com.au) under Slater & Gordon (SGH).

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