Edinburgh firm Brodies has publicly criticised rival firm Dundas & Wilson's decision to demerge from its private client department. Its statement suggests that Dundas & Wilson, which is in merger talks with the Andersens legal network, was forced into a demerger because of the talks. Brodies' statement reads: “Doubtless under pressure from their intended 'owners' at Arthur Andersen, the largest firm in Scotland will no longer provide any private client service.” However, Neil Cochran, chair of Dundas & Wilson, said the decision to demerge was amicable, strategic and based on the need to focus on clients. He denied the demerger was the result of pressure from Arthur Andersen.
Added-value solicitors making partner grade
A SERIES of leading law firms have announced their annual partnership appointments amid claims that the criteria they are looking for in their new partners have changed so that they must now be good managers as well as being good lawyers. Clifford Chance has appointed 22 partners this year, plus George Staple who returns after […]