Squires set to launch in Perth after raiding a Perth firm for talent

Squire, Sanders & Dempsey has announced that it is set to enter the Australian legal market, after raiding the Perth office of Australian firm Minter Ellison for lawyers with local knowledge. "The potential combination of Squire Sanders and partners from Minter Ellison Perth would add to our capabilities and developing practice in Asia, with Perth providing a key hub for services to the region's growing economies," said Squire Sanders chair and global CEO James Maiwurm. He added: "We are attracted to the Minter Ellison Perth partners because of their strong domestic practices and outstanding energy and resources component, which will complement and strengthen Squire Sanders's existing practices and expertise." Squire Sanders Australia will be led by John Poulsen, who has been appointed managing partner. Poulson was formerly the managing partner of Minter Ellison's Perth office. A spokesperson from Minter Ellison explained that the Perth office had operated as an independent partnership as a result of a merger in the 80s, and that in light of this ‘amicable split’ they would be launching a new Perth office in October.

Squires set to launch in Perth after raiding a Perth firm for talent law.com law.com Wed, Aug 10, 2011