Crawford & Company, a global firm focused primarily on solving claims-handling challenges, has announced its acquisition of the Australian legal entity HBA Group. The move comes as Crawford looks to expand its range of legal offerings under the Crawford Legal Services (CLS) banner.

HBA Group is comprised of HBA Legal, a legal service that works with underwriters, brokers, insurers and self-insured companies across Australia and the London market; Paratus, a claims management business; and Pillion, a legal process and technology provider.

Currently located in the UK, CLS is an independent legal practice integrated into the Crawford & Company claims management process. It provides professional and technical support in the handling of volume, niche, complex or high-value claims.

“Becoming part of CLS and in turn the broader Crawford group creates huge potential for us to take HBA Legal to the next level for our people and clients,” commented Brett Ablong, managing director of HBA Group.

“I am excited for our people as they are now part of a global organisation, which will provide career and personal development opportunities. Our clients will also be able to access the full range of services available in Crawford for a connected claims service that no traditional law firm can provide.”

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“HBA Legal joining Crawford is wonderful news and gives us clear market differentiation,” added Tim Jarman, Crawford president, Australia.

“We are the only loss adjusting company in Australia to have their own law firm, and after seeing the success of Crawford Legal Services in the UK, I am excited about the potential for both Crawford and HBA Legal in Australia.”