Independent law firm Burness Paull has added a quartet of high-profile new partners to its ranks to help businesses navigate through the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Chair Peter Lawson pointed to new challenges emerging as the economic and regulatory consequences take shape - with sweeping new regulations likely to be introduced across a raft of industries to futureproof businesses against future outbreaks - increasing demand for specific skill sets.

Hazel Moffat, who was previously at DLA Piper, will lead a new Public Law and Regulatory division at Burness Paull. Regularly representing national governments and regulatory bodies as well as many major Scottish, UK and international businesses, Hazel is featured in the Legal 500’s Hall of Fame for public sector, parliamentary and public affairs work.

Two of the new additions, David Davidson and Dawn Reoch, arrive from CMS.

A leading corporate lawyer for more than 20 years, David specialises in corporate and private equity transactions and advisory work. David’s arrival adds further strength to the firm’s top-ranked corporate team, which has topped the deals table in the Scottish market for the past five years consecutively.

Dawn is a banking and finance expert with 18 years’ of experience acting for lenders, corporate borrowers and private equity sponsors advising on a wide range of financings from leveraged and acquisition finance through to investment grade facilities.

Ashley Jones, a specialist in high value and complex professional liability disputes, joins from BTO. Ashley has particular experience of acting for insurers in defending claims and advising clients on policy coverage and risk management issues.

Commenting on the rationale for bringing new partners to the firm Peter Lawson said: “The world of business never stands still, even in a global pandemic.

“However, there has been a major impact on almost every industry sector. It is a fast-moving picture and new business-critical concerns are emerging almost daily.

“As an independent law firm we are able to respond quickly and nimbly to changes.

“That’s why in order to support clients we have continued to expand our services and recruit the talent needed to overcome new challenges.

“Despite the fact they have arrived at the firm during lockdown all four of our new partners have hit the ground running, offering clients market-leading legal advice in corporate finance, dispute resolution, banking and funds, and the public sector.

“It’s a real boost to have attracted such outstanding individuals and their recruitment underlines the firm’s commitment to ensuring we are resourced to provide the highest level of specialist and practical support to clients.”

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