Law firm expands in Germany

LEGAL business DWF is expanding its footprint in Germany with the launch of a Berlin office next month.

The Manchester-based firm said its latest opening will strengthen its financial services, real estate and corporate/M&A service lines.

Partner Wolfgang Richter, who joined DWF Germany following the firm’s 2016 merger with German commercial law firm BridgehouseLaw, will head the new Berlin office in the role of executive partner.

The office, which will initially launch with eight lawyers, includes two additional partners, financial services lawyer Dr Nina Siedler and real estate lawyer Irene Schmid from DLA Piper who have decided to close their Berlin office.

Berlin will also allow DWF to enhance its existing capability in Germany, where the firm currently has offices in Cologne and Munich, particularly in the financial services sector where the firm has a growing specialism in FinTech.

Andrew Leaitherland, managing partner and CEO of DWF, said: “As a firm we have a continued focus on identifying growth opportunities that reflect both the direction of our business and our growing international outlook, as well as the priorities of our client base.

“Opening in Berlin presents a strategic opportunity in its own right, offering significant opportunities in the financial services and real estate markets.”