DLA Piper in expansion mode

Three lawyers from different backgrounds have joined DLA Piper's Scottish practice as the firm looks to grow its insurance practice among others.

Partner Alan Jacobs has moved to Edinburgh from Birmingham, where he led the insurance team; and solicitor advocate Ray Gribben has joined as an associate from BTO where he specialised in complex defender reparation cases.

Also joining the firm is advocate Gail Whealing, who becomes a legal director. Her six years at the bar included employment tribunal, criminal and personal injury work.

Scotland managing partner Bruce Westbrook said: "We will be announcing the appointment of another legal director shortly and would expect to be recruiting again in six to 12 months' time."