Three new partners and a new counsel have been appointed at legal services firm Appleby.

Michael Hanson, head of the employment and immigration team in Bermuda, Clive Langley, a specialist in corporate law and international finance and Steven Rees Davis, an expert on corporate finance and capital markets projects, have all be named as partners.

In addition, Gavin Woods, who works in corporate finance, restructuring and insurance regulation, will become an Appleby counsel, subject to immigration approval.

Tim Faries, Bermuda managing partner, group head of corporate and global head of insurance at the firm, said: “They are first-rate lawyers whom clients and colleagues admire and value.

“I look forward to working closely with each of them as we continue to provide leading-edge solutions to our clients’ ever-changing needs.”

The new roles are part of an “unprecedented” round of 17 promotions across Appleby’s network of international offices, with six new partners and 11 lawyers appointed to the position of counsel, effective from the start of next year.

The appointments come as a further four Bermuda partners are due to move from the firm after a private equity-backed management buyout of Appleby’s fiduciary services business.

The change of ownership means Appleby partners in Bermuda, James Bodi, Janita Burke, Sarah Demerling and Alison Dyer-Fagundo, will become client directors at the new firm when the deal is completed.

Mr Faries said: “This is an exciting time for Appleby and the new fiduciary business with tremendous opportunities for both companies.

“I would like to thank James, Janita, Sarah and Alison for their dedication and excellent client service over the years.

“I wish them continued success in their careers as they move to the new fiduciary business.”

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