Legal news: Addleshaws; O’Connors; Boote Edgar Esterkin; Stephensons

THE Manchester office of law firm Addleshaw Goddard has advised Swiss client  Sonova Holding AG, on an extension of its UK relationship with retailer Boots.

Sonova, the world’s leading provider of hearing solutions, has sold 49% of its subsidiary, David Omerod Hearing Centres, to Boots for an undislosed sum.

David Ormerod Hearing Centres began its partnership with Boots in 2003, operating shop-in-shop centres in 64 locations. This has now grown to more than 340.

The Addleshaw Goddard team comprised lead partner  Keith Johnston with support from managing associate Andrew Green and tax partner Ed Jenkins.

Corporate partner Keith Johnston said: “The deal further extends the partnership between Boots UK and Sonova – allowing both businesses to further develop core strategic ambitions, whilst delivering high-quality hearingcare solutions for the consumer.

“It’s great to see the partnership going from strength to strength, and to be involved a decade on from the original deal.”

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LIVERPOOL law firm O’Connors has been named Onshore Law Firm of the Year at the UK Captive Services Awards.

The awards recognise excellence in the delivery and management of captive insurance services, judged by a panel of international insurance experts. The North West firm saw off competition from heavyweights Clifford Chance, Clyde & Co, Linklaters,and Simmons & Simmons.

O’Connors, which celebrates its 10th anniversary this year, provides insurance and regulatory support to a number of the UK’s largest organisations.

Paul O’Connor, who heads the O’Connors insurance and regulatory team, said: “We have been pioneering new developments in the captive insurance field for the last 10 years and I am extremely proud that our team’s efforts have been recognised by our peers.”

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MANCHESTER law firm, Boote Edgar Esterkin, has launched a new employer protection service.

The new offering is aimed at helping businesses minimise the potential for employment disputes. It includes providing clients with an annual audit, including a review of key employment documents and procedures to ensure compliance with best practice and legislation, as well as unlimited access to a telephone helpline.

Lynda Spiby, head of employment at Boote Edgar Esterkin said: “As a law firm, we are always striving to provide added value and assistance to businesses. We believe this new service will benefit our clients at a time when they are faced with a wide range of challenges in the workplace.”

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NORTH West legal practice Stephensons Solicitors has launched an in-house advocacy unit within its family team.

The move means the firm’s family law clients can be represented in court by their solicitor, rather than having to instruct a barrister, which will save time and money.

Partner Andrew Mountain said: “It is not commonplace for family solicitors to offer this advocacy service and we are excited to be pioneering the practice to benefit our clients. Our clients will have better continuity of knowledge about their case, and cost savings could be significant, as we will not have to brief external advocates.”
 
The service was trialled by associate Anna White. Stephensons  has more than 90 members in its family team across its North West offices at Altrincham, Bolton, Wigan, St Helens, Manchester and Leigh.