Deacons and local affiliate Kelvin Chia Partnership have devised an ambitious expansion plan to capitalize on the firms’ combined strengths across the Asia Pacific region.

Deacons managing partner Philip Crowley says the two firms have identified financial services, dispute resolution and construction and infrastructure as areas poised for growth, and are looking to boost lawyer numbers accordingly.

Says Crowley: “Obviously, these are the areas which we think there is a need for advice. But we’re not trying to green-field an area. We’re more interested in building expertise.”

The two firms plan to combine their litigation and arbitration expertise by building up a team of experts who are able to travel to clients and provide on-the-spot advice.

Falling work levels due to the economic climate are no deterrent. Says Crowley: “People are still investing and requiring legal assistance. M&A work will continue on for years. It is just a matter of adjusting quickly to slightly different market circumstances.”

Deacons and Kelvin Chia signed their affiliation agreement in September 2001.