DWF opens in Brussels as second international base

UK and Ireland law firm DWF is opening its second overseas office with a new base in Brussels.

DWF, which moved into Scotland when it acquired Biggart Baillie, aims to use its new base to provide greater competition and regulatory support to major UK and international clients, particularly in the central and local government, food and retail, transport, and energy and industrials sectors.

Partner and head of EU & competition Jonathan Branton, who formerly spent 10 years practising in Brussels will head the office, supported by DWF’s head of retail, food and hospitality, Hilary Ross and EU and competition specialist Brona Heenan.

Earlier this year the firm opened in Dubai, its first office outside the British Isles.

Mr Branton commented: “DWF has been handling significant EU matters in Brussels for years and formalising our presence in the city will help us to grow the practice and capitalise on the great international opportunities presented by our growing client base. Interest in EU matters is growing with the pending referendum and, irrespective of the result, international clients will continue to have EU issues, and UK clients will continue to be affected by the EU one way or another.”