Ireland’s potential as a global centre for legal services post-Brexit was on the table this morning as chairman emeritus of DLA Piper Senator George Mitchell met Justice minister Charlie Flanagan.

In town for the official launch of the Dublin office of the global law firm Senator George Mitchell said “Ireland’s position in the global market has become increasingly important given the internationalisation of the economy.

“With the global remit we have for our existing clients alongside Irish companies' appetite to do business in every corner of the world, it was a natural step for DLA Piper to establish an office in Dublin. 

Ambition

“We also believe there is a real opportunity to establish Ireland as a global centre for legal services, which is why we are building a team, headed by managing partner David Carthy, with the strength and depth to deliver on this ambition.”

The Irish office has already made a number of significant partner hires and will continue to boost the practice to a team of up to 100 high-calibre lawyers and business professionals.

Legal and tax advice

Global players DLA Piper established a Dublin office on St Stephen’s Green in response to demand for globally benchmarked legal and tax advice from domestic and multinational companies operating in, expanding into or exporting from Ireland.

The firm’s initial focus in Ireland will be on the life sciences, technology and financial services sectors.

Progress

Global co-chief executive Simon Levine said "We are really pleased with our progress and are delighted to meet clients' demand for a law firm in Ireland with a truly global reach. As we grow, we will continue to add to our team ensuring that our expertise mirrors the needs of our clients.” 

Minister for Justice Charlie Flanagan said “I commend Senator Mitchell for his continued deep and abiding interest in Irish affairs and his strong support for Ireland.

“The UK’s decision to leave the EU presents many threats to Ireland but we have worked hard to identify opportunities – and international legal services offers great potential.

Vote of confidence

“DLA Piper’s decision to open an Irish office is a vote of confidence in Ireland’s legal talent pool and its future as an English-speaking Common Law jurisdiction and EU Member State of international repute.

“My Department is working with the Chief Justice, the Bar Council and the Law Society to promote Ireland as a venue for international legal services.  I have no doubt many firms will follow the lead of DLA Piper in the months and years ahead.”

Pro-business environment

Martin Shanahan of IDA Ireland said “In this ever-changing economic climate, Ireland can provide companies with a consistent, pro-business environment in which they can grow and thrive.”

David Carthy said “As a firm well-known for its entrepreneurial spirit, we are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead to drive disruption and radical change in the market.”