New silk boosts 39 Essex St's global reach

39 Essex Street has snared Adrian Hughes QC from 4 Pump Court to ramp up its international capabilities.

Hughes, who took silk last year, is the latest in a string of hires as part of the chambers' plan to become one of the biggest sets in London and provide 'one-stop solutions' for clients globally.

He joins recent recruits John Tackaberry QC from Arbitration Chambers, Patrick Lane SC from South African law firm Maitland & Co and Marion Smith of Quadrant Chambers, all of whom form part of the set's international profile.

39 Essex Street chief executive Michael Meeson said Hughes will play a full-time role in the set's international growth, adding to its current portfolio of the Far East, Middle East and the Caribbean.

Meeson said: "39 is exploring proposals for the delivery of legal services internationally and is in discussion with members of the bar resident in Australia, Hong Kong, South Africa, Dubai and France as to future developments."

Carolyn McCombe, chief executive at 4 Pump Court, said Hughes moved because he wished to follow his aspirations in public and environmental law.

McCombe added: "4 Pump Court's focus is to continue its growth in core areas and to maintain its high level of client service."