Global law firm network appoints new management
The world’s largest network of independent law firms has announced the appointment of a new chair and board. Lex Mundi’s network comprises 160 firms in over 100 countries amounting to more than 21,000 lawyers. Member firms include Australia’s Clayton Utz and New Zealand’s
Simpson Grierson. Paulo Rocha, partner at Demarest Advogados, member firm for Brazil, was elected chair of Lex Mundi while four officers and four directors were also appointed. Tiziana Sucharitkul of Tilleke & Gibbins in Thailand will also serve on the network’s executive committee.
Spike in demand for lawyers in India
The splitting of India’s largest corporate law firm Amarchand & Mangaldas into two new entities run by brothers Cyril and Shardul Shroff has sparked a hiring frenzy. The India Times reports that following the split last week the two new entities are hiring a large number of lawyers which has prompted other law firms to begin recruitment drives to fill potential gaps. Mid-level associates are particularly in demand and it’s expected that the churn of lawyers switching firms will be a few hundred.
White & Case announces new Indonesian alliance
International law firm White & Case has announced a new alliance in Indonesia having recently ended its agreement with M & D Partners. The new tie-in is with Witara Cakra Advocates.
Healthcare team leaves McKenna Long team ahead of Dentons merger
A team of 25 lawyers from McKenna Long & Aldridge has exited the firm ahead of its merger with Dentons and joined BakerHostetler. The healthcare practice team included James Rawls who has been promoted to co-leader of the enlarged practice.
Law Society warns against complacency on money laundering
The Law Society in England & Wales says that law firms are doing well with procedures to cut down on money laundering but says that there is no room for complacency. The warning comes as the UK prepares for scrutiny by the Financial Action Task Force, the international organisation working across 34 jurisdictions including Australia and New Zealand. In readiness for scrutiny across all EU member states new legislation will require a greater co-ordinated effort to cut down on money laundering with law firms expected to be particularly rigorous.
