DLA Piper raids Herbert Smith to kickstart French securities practice

DLA Piper Rudnick Gray Cary has made its first hires since its formation on 1 January.

Anne Maréchal, previously an of counsel at Herbert Smith in Paris, joins DLA Piper’s French office as a partner to develop a securities law practice. She brings with her two associates.

Most recently, Maréchal has been acting on the proposed merger between communications company Sagem and state-owned Snecma, advising the French government on the disposal of Snecma. Other clients include Deutsche Bank, Eurotunnel, and Merrill Lynch Paris. She has also held various roles for the government.

Alan Cariddi, DLA Piper’s Paris managing partner, said Maréchal’s appointment would help expand the office’s capabilities in many areas.

Maréchal’s hire brings the number of partners at DLA Piper Paris to eight.