Hazel Moffat, who was previously at DLA Piper, will lead a new public law and regulatory division at the firm. Ms Moffat is a highly skilled and experienced practitioner, particularly specialising in representing national governments and regulatory bodies, as well as major businesses.

David Davidson, a corporate lawyer with more than 20 years’ experience, specialises in corporate and private equity transactions and advisory work. Mr Davidson will be joining the corporate team at Burness Paull from CMS.

Also joining the team is Dawn Reoch, a banking and finance expert with 18 years of experience acting for lenders, corporate borrowers, and private equity sponsors. Ms Reoch has experience advising on a wide range of financing matters from leveraged and acquisition finance through to investment grade facilities.

Ashley Mawby is a specialist in high value and complex professional liability disputes. She has particular experience acting for insurers in defending claims and advising clients on policy coverage and risk management issues.

Burness Paull chair Peter Lawson said: “The world of business never stands still, even in a global pandemic. However, there has been a major impact on almost every industry sector. It is a fast-moving picture and new business-critical concerns are emerging almost daily.

“As an independent law firm we are able to respond quickly and nimbly to changes. That’s why in order to support clients we have continued to expand our services and recruit the talent needed to overcome new challenges.

“Despite the fact they have arrived at the firm during lockdown all four of our new partners have hit the ground running, offering clients market-leading legal advice in corporate finance, dispute resolution, banking and funds, and the public sector.

“It’s a real boost to have attracted such outstanding individuals and their recruitment underlines the firm’s commitment to ensuring we are resourced to provide the highest level of specialist and practical support to clients.”