Alliance takes flight

Three leading firms in aviation law unveiled a 'virtual practice' last week, promising specialist legal advice on a global basis at greatly reduced cost.

In forming L2B, the three firms - top south-coast firm Blake Lapthorn, niche aviation practice Hames & Meyrier and Paris-based Meyrier Fayout Lacoste - will remain independent, but have an agreement to refer work to each other wher-ever possible.

Richard Hames, formerly head of the aviation finance department at City firm Clyde & Co and one of the founders of L2B, said: 'We are a group of independent companies who are all working together.

We all bring different skills to the group - for example Meyrier Fayout Lacoste adds an international dimension, based in Paris - and so will be able to fulfil all our clients' needs.'

Mr Hames said that as a result of not being based in London and resulting cheaper overheads, L2B charged up to 50% less than its competitors.

Between them, the firms have offices in Fareham, Portsmouth, Southampton and Paris.

Mr Hames plans to use his experience in the aviation field to expand L2B globally and bring in other specialist lawyers from around the world.

'We call ourselves a virtual law firm as we are not based in one office, but keep in contact via the Internet, phones and fax.'

Victoria MacCallum