LG launches Moscow base after winning Lukoil panel role

LG has launched an office in Moscow after merging with local Russian firm Aurora.

The base, which will focus on M&A, corporate, securities, banking and finance and bankruptcy, will be led by LG London-based corporate and finance partner Richard Elphick. He will work alongside boutique Aurora’s four-partner team.

Elphick said: “The Russian business has been a major part of our firm for a long time. We have longstanding relationships in the region particularly in the shipping industry.”

Last week The Lawyer reported that LG had landed a place on the legal panel of Russian oil company Lukoil’s overseas business. It was the only firm on the panel not to have a heavy Moscow presence (16 March).

Elphick said: “That relationship is very new and the two things aren’t directly connected because the panel is in relation to the overseas business. However, it does help to have a base in Moscow, which will help us expand our business in Russia.”

LG is recruiting into the new office with the aim of rapidly expand its four partner and 14 associate team.

Elphick said: “This market presents many opportunities in recruitment. We’re seeing high numbers of CVs coming in and we hope to develop the office further.”

The news of LG’s Moscow launch comes after Berwin Leighton Paisner secured a base in the Russian city after poaching around 70 lawyers from top Russian firm and Gazprom adviser Pepeliaev, Goltsblat & Partners ( 19 January).