Our Merger With Howe and Spender

In August 2025, Howe and Spender became part of the JCP Solicitors family, expanding their presence into Port Talbot and strengthening the support offered to private clients and businesses in the area. Howe and Spender was first founded through a merger in 1995 between John Spender and Co and Howe Walsh and Ambrose.

Founded by Ian Spender’s father in 1975, John Spender and Co built a strong reputation over two decades for serving the people of Port Talbot with care and dedication. This proud legacy continued when the firm united with long-established local practice, Howe Walsh and Ambrose; combining their heritage and expertise to strengthen the legal advice and support offered to the local community.

Howe Walsh and Ambrose, at the time of the merger in 1995, had already been established for over 100 years, and was originally founded by Edward Evans, the great-uncle of former Deputy Prime Minister and Chancellor of the Exchequer Geoffrey Howe.

Having already served the community for over 130 years, supporting generations of families and businesses whose relatives are still loyal to the business today, the merger with JCP Solicitors is the next chapter for this Port Talbot based business.

The office in Port Talbot continues to be proud of its reputation for excellent client care and deep-rooted local knowledge. As one of the town’s leading and longest established firms of solicitors, providing quality legal services to the residents and businesses of Neath and Port Talbot, the merger brings fresh investment and opportunity.

What the merger with JCP Solicitors means for Port Talbot

• The skilled team at Howe and Spender remain in their Station Road office, ensuring continuity of service for existing clients.
• There is scope for growth, including opportunities for apprentices, trainees and qualified professionals to join the team as the business expands.
• The merger represents a significant investment in the town, helping to support its regeneration and create career opportunities for local people.

A strengthened legal offering

The newly merged firm retains all existing private client and property work currently provided by Howe and Spender, while introducing additional legal services from across JCP Solicitors’ portfolio – including commercial law, family law, dispute resolution and more – offering clients a comprehensive range of expertise under one roof. Ian Spender, Managing Partner of Howe and Spender, joined JCP Solicitors as a Director in the Lifetime Planning team, continuing his specialism in Wills, Probate, Powers of Attorney and Trusts. Souiful Alam, joined JCP Solicitors prior to the merger and has been an integral part of the firm’s Commercial Property team since April 2025.

Both Directors bring extensive knowledge of the local market and a wealth of legal expertise, ensuring a seamless transition for clients.