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03 September 2025
Categories: Movers & Shakers , Profession
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Keoghs—four appointments

Four partner hires expand legal expertise in Scotland and Northern Ireland

Keoghs, the legal solutions arm of Davies, has made four lateral partner appointments across Scotland and Northern Ireland, reinforcing its commitment to regional growth and specialist legal expertise. The hires include Karen Dance and Rachel Henry in Scotland, and Michelle McCullough and John Guerin in Northern Ireland—all joining from Clyde & Co.

Karen Dance (pictured) brings over 25 years’ experience in insurance litigation, with a focus on defended reparation cases involving employers’ liability, public liability and RTA claims. She will advise on high-value and complex accident claims. Rachel Henry, who has spent 15 years specialising in catastrophic injury cases, will focus on large loss matters involving spinal and brain injuries, amputations and chronic pain. Douglas Cowan, lead partner in Scotland, said: ‘Their arrival is a significant milestone for our growing presence.’

In Belfast, Michelle McCullough joins the property, risks and coverage team, bringing deep expertise in high-value property damage and coverage disputes. John Guerin adds decades of experience in motor and liability claims, and will also advise on historic abuse cases and regulatory proceedings. Victoria McLean, lead partner in Northern Ireland, said: ‘Their combined expertise will be instrumental in strengthening our client offering.’

These appointments align with Keoghs’ broader strategy to scale specialist services and deepen its presence across key UK and Ireland markets. The firm continues to invest in top-tier legal talent to meet evolving client needs in both jurisdictions.

MOVERS & SHAKERS

Gateley Legal—Jack Kelly

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Gateley Legal expands Midlands residential development team

Gibson Dunn—Richard Surtees

Gibson Dunn—Richard Surtees

Gibson Dunn adds employee benefits and executive compensation practice in London with partner Richard Surtees

Laytons ETL—Alec Cameron

Laytons ETL—Alec Cameron

Laytons ETL appoints new partner and head of intellectual property disputes

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