Dechert ends insurance practice as partner jumps ship

Dechert’s London office is pulling out of the insurance market following the departure of partner James Lewis to LeBoeuf Lamb Green & MacRae.

Lewis, who became a partner at the firm in 1992, is expected to leave Dechert at the end of this week.

Stephen Fogel, Dechert’s London managing partner, said: "James Lewis is leaving us this Friday to take up partnership with LeBeouf Lamb Green & McRae.

"That follows discussions with James about where would be the best place for him to concentrate on building a practice in the insurance sector where he has a particular interest. We wish him well in the future."

He added: "Dechert will of course continue to do corporate, employment, real estate and litigation work for those of its clients that are in this sector."

Lewis’ departure follows Charles Brown, head of Dechert’s City construction practice, who is moving to the London office of Philadelphia’s Duane Morris.