UK-based Keoghs was acquired in 2020 by Davies, the specialist professional services and technology business serving insurance, financial services and highly regulated markets, and provides claims and legal expertise to insurers, businesses and other suppliers to the insurance industry.

The acquisition of OBL — a full-service law firm that acts for European and multinational insurers, PLCs, financial institutions, investment funds, semi-state bodies as well as corporate entities and private individuals — marks Keoghs’ first expansion outside the UK.

It means Keoghs will be able to offer clients in Ireland a wide range of insurance litigation capabilities specific to Ireland, including specialist defence litigation for the London market and adjusters, as well as expertise in professional negligence.

OBL will effectively rebrand as Keoghs Ireland.

The OBL team, including founding partner Michael Lynam and Jack O’Brien, alongside six partners and 30 other professionals, will continue to support existing clients and, as part of the wider Keoghs team, will also provide advice and counsel to clients within Keoghs’ and Davies’ wider network.

Dan Saulter, group CEO at Davies, said: “The transaction with OBL marks a significant step for our Keoghs business and its growth strategy, while building on our existing claims operations in Ireland.

“The team is highly respected for their specialist expertise and knowledge and will be an excellent addition to our end-to-end claims solutions offering across the UK and Ireland.”

Mr O’Brien said: “Today’s announcement marks a significant milestone in OBL’s 25-year history. Since founding the firm, we have grown organically with the support of our loyal clients and team take pride in the results that we have delivered and the impact we have made in the market.”

Mr Lynam said: “Joining Davies, and becoming part of Keoghs, allows us to tap into the deep expertise that the Keoghs team brings while also providing us with the opportunity to broaden our offering to our existing clients on the claims litigation side and also in our Property and Banking practice.”

Davies’ financial advisors for the transaction were RSM UK Corporate Finance LLP, and its lawyers were A&L Goodbody LLP. Davies’ tax advisors were RSM Ireland. OBL’s corporate advisors for this transaction were Azets Ireland and its lawyers were Addleshaw Goddard (Ireland) LLP.