World’s longest running legal publication shuts down after 160 years in print

Trade publication Solicitors Journal is to close after 160 years in print, with seven editorial jobs to be lost.

The weekly has buckled under advertising pressure and declining subscriptions following the advent of digital media.

Publisher Wilmington said it was put up for sale but no buyer could be found.

In a statement it said: “Wilmington plc announced in February 2017 that it was exiting the market in legal practice support services and would focus on its other divisional knowledge areas.

“The ARK businesses were put up for sale but no buyer has been found. As a consequence a number of publications including Solicitors Journal, Trade & Forfeiting Review and Waterlow’s Legal Directories will close.

“In common with many publications, these assets have been affected in recent years by the structural challenges within the paid for media content and advertising marketplaces and economic challenges within their sectors.”

Wilmington Legal chairman Mark Solon said: “We greatly appreciate the hard work of the current and past Solicitors Journal teams who have maintained editorial independence, integrity and excellence over some 160 years.

“I am sure that all of those who have worked for, contributed to and read Solicitors Journal during its long history will be sad to hear this news. I can assure everyone that this decision has not been taken lightly, and without exploring all possible avenues.”