A Columbus law firm has taken over the practice of an Ironton attorney who died last month.

Mark Collins died Sept. 7. Tim Bainbridge, of the law firm Ward, Caps, Bainbridge said the two firms began a relationship two years ago during Collins' illness. The relationship will continue for the convenience of the late Collins' clients.

&#8220Over the last two and a half years, we've been working as co-counsel, working in Ironton, meeting with people at his (Collins) office,” Bainbridge said. &#8220We want a presence there, no question. We've even ordered new signs.”

The new signs will include an acknowledgement of Collins. Advertisements will be placed in local media after the November election, he said.

Bainbridge said work is under way now to link the computers of the two offices. The Ironton office will be open five days a week, with Columbus attorneys rotating visits to Ironton. The staffs at both offices are in frequent contact. Bainbridge said there are no plans for any of the attorneys to move here permanently.

Bainbridge said the relationship between the Columbus law firm and the Ironton clients has gotten off to a good start and he hopes that continues.

&#8220We like Ironton,” he said. &#8220We like the people. We sincerely think these are some of the nicest people we've met anywhere.”

Collins had practiced law in Ironton since 1985, specializing in workers' compensation cases. The law office is located at 119 N. Fifth St.