Mishcons picks up Bayers' pieces

Mishcon de Reya will benefit from the dissolution of nine-partner London commercial firm Bayer Rosin, by taking on its entire commercial law department.

The nine Bayer Rosin commercial lawyers joining Mishcons include high billing partner Kevin Gold and consultant Martin Bayer, previously senior partner and one of the joint founders of the firm.

The move suits Mishcons' plans to expand its commercial department.

Gold's team brings international clients to the firm, particularly from Africa and the Middle East.

Anthony Julius, litigation partner at Mishcons, says: "We approached the firm with a completely open mind. It is an interesting practice which we didn't know much about. We are pleased to have Kevin Gold and Martin Bayer - they are very impressive."

Gold says: "It was felt there was a good symmetry between our commercial practice and the strength of Mishcons' litigation team. We entered into merger discussions at the end of last year and some people [from Bayer Rosin] withdrew from those talks"

Bayer Rosin was formed ten years ago, but the firm was struck by tragedy when founding partner Alan Rosin died 18 months ago.

Gold's team joins Mishcons on 1 April, the day after the Bayer Rosin partnership dissolves. All partners and staff have jobs to go to.