Addleshaws litigation chief quits to set up boutique

Twigden and Pietro Marino intend to leave the firm to set up a claimant-focused firm.

Twigden has professional negligence, contractual, outsourcing and shareholder disputes experience, with a specialism in contentious insurance and reinsurance matters. He will be replaced in the role as head of the 49-partner practice by Richard Leedham, an insurance and reinsurance partner.

Twigden was understood to have been in the running for the chairman’s role at a recent election that was won by fellow litigation partner Monica Burch. He and employment partner and head of the contentious and commercial division Malcolm Pike lost out to Burch (31 March 2010).

Addleshaws declined to comment on whether Twigden’s departure was in any way related to the outcome of the election. Twigden was unavailable for comment.

A spokesperson said: “Simon Twigden and Pietro Marino intend to pursue another opportunity outside the firm, which they feel will be better suited to their professional aspirations. They’re valued partners and we’ll be sad to see them go. In the meantime they remain fully committed to our business and our clients.

“Looking forward, litigation is and will remain a key pillar of the firm and Richard Leedham has replaced Simon as head of litigation.  We have a great depth of talent in that practice, fabulous clients and are engaged in exceptional work, which is the product of many people’s efforts. There’s a strong platform for even greater success and Richard has the skills and experience to lead the team through the next exciting stages of its growth.”

Both Twigden and Marino are expected to work their 12-month notice period.