Cwmbran-based Rubin Lewis O’Brien has agreed to exit from the QualitySolicitors network and reaffirm complete independance.

The move comes after the business, which has been established in Cwmbran for more than 50 years, joined the network of law firms six years ago. The decision comes into effect from February 1, 2017.

Managing partner Sam George said: “Many of our clients and business associates will be aware that in February 2011 we joined QualitySolicitors; a national network of law firms.

"At the time, it was predicted that the impending liberalisation of the legal services market would bring greater competition from large, commercial organisations such as banks and supermarkets and, to an extent, our decision to join the network was defensive with a view to contributing to a marketing budget that could compete with these new entrants on a national level.

“The market hasn’t been impacted to the extent that some had anticipated and, while we have enjoyed a healthy relationship with QualitySolicitors, we feel that the time is now right to leave the network. We part on very good terms and wish QualitySolicitors all the best for the future”

The firm, which employs 36 staff, will continue to be based at Gwent House in Cwmbran town centre.

Mr George said: “Rubin Lewis O’Brien has deep roots in Cwmbran and the surrounding communities. We believe that our efforts are best directed at further strengthening the ties we have with those communities, rather than spending some of our time promoting and belonging to a national brand. From February 1 we will be known, once again, simply as Rubin Lewis O’Brien.”