Kennedys acquires 36-strong insurance law practice

International firm Kennedys has opened a new office in Leeds after acquiring Langleys’ 36-strong insurance law practice.

Langleys’ former head of insurance and managing partner David Thompson, who acts for major insurers, Lloyds syndicates and large corporations, will head the team at the Leeds office.

Thompson is a recognised insurance law specialist handling large loss claims, complex employers’ liability claims, high value product liability claims and advising on policy and interpretation issues.  

The move reflects a growing demand for specialist insurance law advice.

Kennedys’ head of liability said: “This latest office opening is part of our continued strategy of expansion to add strength and depth to our specialist areas of claims and legal expertise. 

“Not all lines of insurance have been impacted in the same way due to the pandemic. Some areas such as property and casualty have seen an increase, while other areas have seen a slight dip at times due to lower road traffic at times and less people in the workplace.”

But he commented that, overall the firm has seen an uptick in legal advice, which he said will be reflected in this year’s figures in terms of headcount and financial growth. 

“We are looking forward to growing the office, and indeed our global network, further in 2021,” he added.

Confirming the sale to Kennedys, Des Mannion, CEO at Langleys, said his firm will continue to focus on growth plans for its commercial and private client divisions, and residential conveyancing.

He added: “It is a move that benefits all parties, allowing Langleys to focus on growing its core specialisms and explore new opportunities within the Yorkshire and Lincolnshire regions it serves. It also enables the insurance team to benefit from being part of a larger, international insurance division within Kennedys.”