Two of Vietnam's prominent law firms, Indochine Counsel and Leadco Vietnam Legal Counsellors, have entered into a strategic alliance.

Although initially set in May 2007, the firms said that now was the right time to officially declare the alliance. The partnership is based on a matter of geographical convenience for both firms, as both had intended to set up shop in the other's jurisdiction. The alliance will bridge the firms' bases, in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh, expanding their market reach and cross-border capabilities. The two firms will act as co-counsel on specific corporate, IP and real estate deals and transactions.

Indochine's managing partner, Dang The Duc, said the alliance is the largest in Vietnam and will strengthen his firm by broadening its range of legal professionals.

"This alliance furthers [the firm's] strategy of selectively joining with top-tier lawyers and firms that have synergy with our unique culture and strong brand," he said.

The alliance will focus on the growth the firms have experienced from clients seeking advisory on domestic and overseas expansion opportunities. The managing partner at Hanoi-based Leadco, Phan Nguyen Toan, said the partnership was ideal for Leadco.

"In Indochine Counsel, we have found a firm that is equally committed to those core values while providing a great platform of services and a collaborative culture which will no doubt result in very significant business opportunities for our clients and lawyers alike," he said.