Kirby Tarrant

Clark Hill first expanded into Ireland in February 2019 through a merger with Dublin-based O’Gradys Solicitors, providing Irish clients with access to US legal services and vice versa.

Following the completion of this latest “strategic combination”, 10 solicitors and a strong support staff complement from HBMO Solicitors will transition to Clark Hill.

HBMO Solicitors, formerly known as Noel Smyth and Partners, is a commercial law firm specialising in commercial property, litigation, corporate, M&A, banking, and private client services.

Kirby Tarrant, member-in-charge of the Clark Hill Dublin office, said: “We are delighted to welcome the talented team of HBMO Solicitors to Clark Hill. This combination enhances our ability to deliver exceptional legal services in Ireland and beyond.

“It is an important step in our expansion plans and presents new opportunities for young solicitors to advance their careers within a growing international law firm.”

Former HBMO Solicitors managing partner Colman Bermingham and partners Hugh O’Neill and Ronan Hannigan, all experienced commercial property solicitors, are looking forward to working in the new firm.

Mr Hannigan said: “Being part of an international law firm in an increasingly amalgamated global economy has incredible benefit to our clients. Access to transatlantic legal resources will add significant value to the support we provide.”

Commenting on the acquisition, Kevin Kent, member-in-charge of Clark Hill’s US-Ireland Strategic Initiative, said: “The synergies between the US and European markets create a vibrant business environment. We aim to provide seamless, efficient, and complete cross-border legal support to our clients on both sides of the Atlantic.”

John Hensien, CEO of Clark Hill, added: “Expanding the Clark Hill presence in Ireland continues to be one of our strategic goals.

“Ireland’s significance as a strategic location for international business, and its position in terms of two-way transatlantic economic investment, continues to reinforce the importance of our Irish presence, and our ability to provide seamless, full-service legal support on both sides of the Atlantic.

“This presence within the EU is an important and differentiating element of our offering.”

The HBMO Solicitors team will relocate to Clark Hill’s newly extended and refurbished offices at 3rd and 4th Floor, Percy Place, Dublin 4.