Law firms step forward to help victims of Manchester attack

Law firms step forward to help victims of Manchester attack
Following the horrific terrorist attack in Manchester last week, around 100 law firms have responded to a call from the city’s law society to offer pro bono advice to victims and their families.

Twenty-two people died in the attack and dozens were injured, including children, and the next day Manchester Law Society appealed for help from law firms.

It said that bereaved families and seriously injured victims may need help with several matters including claims under the UK’s Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme for which legal costs are not reimbursed.

Power, utilities deals appetite at 7-year high
Merger & acquisitions are set to rise in the power and utilities sector according to a new report from EY.

It found that 59% of executives expect to actively pursue acquisitions in the next year, up 12% from a year ago to reach a 7-year high. most (89%) of the executives also expect their deal pipeline to increase or remain stable.

“The global power and utilities transaction environment in the first quarter of the year saw the trends established in 2016 endure. In developed countries, investors continued to seek assets that guaranteed secure returns, while in developing countries, the need for electrification and greenfield infrastructure drove investment,” said Matt Rennie, EY Global Power & Utilities Transactions Leader.

So far in 2017, deal value has been growing with Asia Pacific accounting for U$15.1 billion, second only to the US at $21 billion. These regions are expected to remain the dominant force in power & utilities M&A activity in the year ahead.

Offshore law firm moves Hong Kong office
Offshore law specialist Harneys has moved its Hong Kong office.

From today (29th May) the firm will be based in The Center at 99 Queen’s Road Central with lawyers having new direct dial numbers which are listed on the firm’s website.

It says that client demand has necessitated a move to larger premises.