Macfarlanes' German best friend Nörr Stiefenhofer Lutz posted a huge 30 per cent increase in turnover in 2002
Figures compiled by The Lawyer 100 and JuVe Rechtsmarkt last summer revealed that Nörr was the thirteenth-highest-earning law firm in Germany, with a turnover of £35m. 2001's figures were a 25 per cent increase on 2000's earnings.
Nörr claims the increase is partly due to its decision to stay independent. While it has a loose partnering arrangement with Macfarlanes, there is no exclusive referral agreement. Nörr is also a member of the Lex Mundi alliance.
Partner Donald Frohne said: “This strategy has enabled us to grow significantly in the past year.”
The firm also took on three new partners last year.
