The office will include six lawyers, all of whom previously practiced at London law firm Clark Ricketts, which specialises in transportation law. The two firms already had a well-established relationship, having worked together on US/UK aviation finance matters for more than 15 years. 

The Clark Ricketts team making the move to Holland & Knight is made up of Robert Ricketts, Ian Clark, Gwyn O’Flynn, Tim Murray, Giles Cornwall and Noelle Boyce. Robert Ricketts will serve as the executive partner for the London office.

Emphasis on aviation finance and leasing  

The primary emphasis of Holland & Knight’s London transportation finance practice will be aviation finance and leasing. In addition, the office will also have capability in maritime finance and ancillary aviation services.

 ‘Require both New York law and English law capabilities’

‘The aircraft finance industry has been shifting east to Dublin, Dubai and Singapore over the past few years. Almost all engagements now require both New York law and English law capabilities,’ said John Pritchard, global chair of Holland & Knight’s transportation finance practice. ‘We determined that having a presence in London is important to serve our clients’ interests. Given our long relationship with and high regard for the Clark Ricketts firm, it was an easy decision to have them join the firm.’