Civil extension

Civil partnerships will be extended to heterosexual couples, the prime minister announced, following a Supreme Court ruling that existing discrimination is unlawful

London merger

Commercial firm Acuity Legal has merged with London-based NewLawsLegal, bringing the firm’s headcount to more than 85 lawyers and support staff.

60 seconds

60 seconds

Burford raises funds

Listed litigation funder Burford Capital announced it had raised £192.6m through the placing of 10.4m new shares. Rival Vannin Capital is expected to float on the London Stock Exchange this month.

HFW consultancy

International firm HFW has set up a standalone consultancy business to advise on organisational development, public relations and reputation management. It will initially target clients in the Middle East, Asia and Australia.

Court bloggers

Qualified legal bloggers are now allowed to report on private family proceedings as part of a nine-month Ministry of Justice pilot to test ways of making the Family Court more transparent.

Dragon award

A pro bono initiative by international firm Hogan Lovells, including support for victims of terror attacks, has won a [City of London] Lord Mayor’s Dragon Award for responsible business.