International law firm Taylor Wessing has announced plans to open an office in Dublin.

The firm says the move is a first step in Ireland, as it has plans for “steady expansion” and a new Irish LLP partnership, subject to regulatory approval.

Operations will be initially established through a co-working space, but the firm says it will review the situation throughout the year to assess how the office should grow.

Taylor Wessing’s focus will be on two of its core sectors: tech and life sciences.

Corporate partner James Goold and international co-head of life sciences and healthcare Alison Dennis will divide their attention between London and Dublin for an initial period.

The firm says it is currently in discussions with legal experts in the Irish market, and will provide further updates.

'Dynamic city'

Mr Goold described Dublin as “a thriving, dynamic city”, and added that Cork and Galway were recognised as amongst the leading tech and innovation hubs in the world.

"Our strategic growth plans offer opportunities for us to support international technology and life sciences sector organisations with leading advice that will deliver continued success for their businesses," he said.

Managing partner Shane Gleghorn said Taylor Wessing’s strategy was focused on representing clients in the major technology and life-science hubs, and it was “a natural step” to expand into Ireland.