Dublin firm capitalises on ceasefire

A TOP firm of Dublin solicitors is opening a Northern Ireland office in one of two moves announced last week to capitalise on the fertile post-ceasefire legal market.

Arthur Cox will open an outlet in Belfast on New Year's Day. Two partners and an associate will be based in Belfast.

The launch - believed to be the first time a southern firm has branched out in the North - will focus on commercial work.

Arthur Cox chair James O'Dwyer said the move had been planned since before the ceasefire but added the new economic climate had helped.

Meanwhile the top southern firm, A&L Goodbody, has joined up with Belfast's Elliott Duffy Garrett to establish what it calls a "unique" partnership.

The A&L Goodbody - Northern Ireland Association aims to cash-in on legal work generated by businesses, much of which has been snatched up by large English law firms.