Our Heritage
In 2004 Wright Johnston & Mackenzie LLP (WJM) celebrated its 150th birthday. Here we take a very brief scamper through the history of the firm.
1854 - Queen Victoria has been on the throne for 17 years, the Crimean War is dominating news headlines and, in Glasgow, solicitor Thomas Grieve Wright went into partnership with George Smith to form Smith & Wright, the first ‘Wright’ in the firm which became WJM.
Twelve years later in 1866, Smith & Wright became Smith, Wright & Johnston following the assumption of Alexander Johnston into the practice. Then in 1869 Dr James Mackenzie joined the practice which became Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie.
Apart from two very short periods at the turn of the twentieth century, when first ‘Aitken’ and then ‘Roxburgh’ were added to the name, the firm has been Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie ever since.
The early partners and their sons, grandsons and great-grandsons served the firm almost continuously for a century. Norman Wright and Thomas Wright, were the great grandsons of Thomas Grieve Wright, retiring in 1970 and 1961 respectively. The Mackenzie’s also served the firm for over 90 years, until 1960 when James Mackenzie died.
The firm prospered and in 1986 expanded into Edinburgh with the acquisition of the firm of Haldanes, McLaren & Scott WS. The Firm became a Limited Liability Partnership, Wright Johnston & Mackenzie LLP, in April 2004.
The 1990’s saw the Firm consolidate into its two principal offices in Glasgow and Edinburgh. Growth continued through the development of law in new areas - most significantly in renewable energy and in family businesses. In the 90’s, we laid down the foundation of today’s well regarded renewable energy team, who continue to be at the forefront of legal developments in their industry. Ken McCracken, who leads the family business team, works internationally through WJM’s spin out consulting company, Family Business Solutions Ltd, helping family businesses and business families manage complex succession and management issues.
Telecoms is also a strength of the Firm - through their work Gillian Cowie’s team are responsible for the broadening of mobile phone access across Scotland, England and Northern Ireland.
WJM’s client base is broad. It encompassing internationally known plc’s, market leading Scottish businesses, local businesses and individuals & their families. The Firm prides itself on being able to help its clients achieve their aims. Which is why WJM offers law for your business, law for your life.
Throughout our history WJM has led through client service. The principles of our founders are as valid today as they were over 150 years ago when the first brass plate bearing our forenames was put in place. Today the nameplate might be highly polished stainless steel but the values and vision of the Firm remain sound and solid.
WJM - law for your business, law for your life.
