3/4 South Square makes first step into Germany

Leading commercial set 3/4 South Square is creating a German presence with the acquisition of a senior dual German/English qualified barrister from 46 Essex Street.

In one of the first moves of its kind, commercial practitioner Dr Michael Peglow will split his time between the UK and his office in Dusseldorf.

The set's senior clerk Paul Cooklin says this could be a precursor to the establishment of a German office.

"I see his joining chambers as a boost to our ability to advise on and provide services for German clients who require people to work and speak ably on German documentation. As he is called to the German bar as well, he can also advise on local law.

"We act for a lot of corporate bodies with head offices in the major European cities. On occasions we receive instructions for them from London-based law firms. But Peglow, with his clients and contacts will also be able to service German law firms."

Cooklin, who joined from 3 Verulam Buildings in January to replace the departing Jason Pithers, says there was a need to boost the set's pan-European and international capability.

"We have come to realise that there is a big market for our overseas practice, not just in Europe, but Hong Kong, the Cayman Islands, Bermuda and the US firms as well. I want to harmonise how overseas lawyers perceive us and it's all part of my aim to see we are also providing a global service," says Cooklin.

Peglow specialises in derivatives, commercial fraud, financial services and international arbitration and adds to the set's existing German capability.