Although both firms have a similar history and client base, Reid said that
Duncan Cotterill has a stronger New Zealand presence, leading him to believe that it would benefit his clients if he moved.
“The move was beneficial to my Australian clients, who have New Zealand businesses or operate there, and New Zealand clients attracted to businesses in Australia that want greater access to legal services,” said Reid.
When asked whether he moved on the recommendation of his clients, Reid said that it was his decision. He said he had taken many of his clients with him but did not think it would leave
Norton White short, because financial institutions usually use more than one law firm. “In all likelihood,
Norton White and
Duncan Cotterill will continue to share similar clients,” he said.
Reid expects that his workload will increase after making the move, particularly for matters involving commercial dispute resolution, corporate restructuring and insolvency.
He has previously worked for
Henry Davis York and
Simpson Grierson, acting on liquidations involving, among others, New Cap Reinsurance Corporation in Australia and HIH companies in New Zealand.
Duncan Cotterill expects more appointments to the Sydney office before the end of the year.