Our Heritage

Traditionally modern. Our clients have evolved over the years. So have we.

 

We have been offering legal advice for a very long time. All the way back to 1614 in fact.

The Morton Fraser practice in Edinburgh can be traced back to 1829, when it was founded by Charles Morton who set up as Greig & Morton WS in partnership with James Greig. Following various mergers over many years the firm became Morton, Fraser & Milligan WS in 1968, shortened to Morton Fraser in 2000.  We acquired the Edinburgh firm Skene Edwards in 2007 and the Glasgow firm Macdonalds in 2013.

Since then, we have continually evolved alongside the world and its demands. Constantly refocusing our skills and expertise to bring you clear and complete advice that stands the test of time.

Our history spans from 1614 to today. We are rooted in Scottish history:

  • 1614 Macdonalds can trace records of the firm back to John Wilson who put up his plate as a writer in Glasgow around 1614

  • 1829 The Morton Fraser practice in Edinburgh can be traced back to 1829, when it was founded by Charles Morton who set up as Greig & Morton WS in partnership with James Greig

  • 1877 Morton Fraser's founding partner was a signatory to the Articles of Association of The Distillers Company Limited (now known as Diageo Scotland Limited)

  • 1883 A number of Wilsons continued the firm and in 1883 John Macdonald was taken into partnership by the seventh Wilson. His portrait is on display in our office. Also in 1883, Robert Jameson commenced practice and his business became Jameson Maclae and Baird

  • 1915 Following various mergers during the 19th century, in 1915 the firm underwent another amalgamation to become known as Morton, Smart, Macdonald & Prosser WS

  • 1961 saw another merger - with J & J Milligan WS. The two firms becoming known as Morton, Smart, Macdonald & Milligan WS

  • 1968 In 1968 they merged again with Fraser, Stodart & Ballingall WS to become Morton, Fraser & Milligan WS

  • 2000 Morton Fraser & Milligan WS shortened to Morton Fraser

  • 2004 Morton Fraser opened up a Glasgow office

  • 2007 Morton Fraser acquired the Edinburgh firm Skene Edwards 

  • 2013 Morton Fraser merged with Macdonalds