EY Ireland has launched a new law practice, which will be headed by former Eversheds Sutherland Ireland managing partner Alan Murphy (pictured).

The firm says that EY Law Ireland will offer “multi-disciplinary expertise” from jurisdictions across EY’s network of more than 150 countries.

The practice is already operating in 92 countries, and EY says that it will integrate with the firm’s other services – such as tax, auditing and consultancy.

More hires expected

The Irish division will initially specialise in digital, technology, mergers and acquisitions (M&A), employment. and property.

EY says that it has also recruited three experienced associate partners – Mairead Finlay (property), Deirdre Malone (employment) and Adam Synnott (M&A) – to join the new legal division.

The company says that additional senior roles will be filled in the next month.

The practice’s new head, Alan Murphy, was chair of Eversheds Sutherland’s European offices, and a member of the firm’s global board.

He described the new firm as “a unique proposition” for the Irish market.

'Next step'

Frank O’Keeffe (EY Ireland’s managing partner) described the launch of EY Law Ireland as “a natural next step” for the firm.

"With Irish organisations facing an increasingly complex legal and regulatory environment, we want to be at the forefront when it comes to helping our clients to navigate their existing and emerging business issues,” he said.

The new practice is fully regulated, and is registered with the Law Society of Ireland.