Dechert closes in on Dublin launch

The US firm is understood to be close to announcing a move to new premises in the commercial development at the city’s Grand Canal Square.

A spokesperson for Dechert would not confirm the move, but said: “We’re always looking for growth opportunities.” The Dublin market has long been dominated by local firms, with few non- Irish players looking to establish a presence there. That said, Dechert’s launch will follow that of US firm Holme Roberts & Owen (HRO), which established its newest office at 11 St Stephen’s Green last month. With its Dublin launch HRO now has three offices in the EU and 10 worldwide.

The corporate and commercial- focused office was set up by a trio of lawyers, including Kate O’Brien, a former capital markets associate at Arthur Cox. O’Brien is joined in the new office by partners James Wolsey, an IP specialist, and Tony Grant, who focuses on corporate work.