Big four accountancy firm Ernst & Young is to build a ‘legal capability’ in the UK, it announced today.  

Philip Goodstone, corporate managing partner at City firm Addleshaw Goddard, will join EY as a partner in September.

EY would not confirm if it is seeking alternative business structure status or how many other appointments are likely to be made.

The firm has a legal presence in other jurisdictions across the globe.

It said in a statement: ‘The appointment has been made with a view to building a legal capability for EY in the UK, subject to regulatory approval, which would complement the firm’s existing service offerings.’ 

EY is the second big four accountancy firm to unveil growth plans in the legal sector.

PwC Legal was last month granted ABS status by the Solicitors Regulation Authority and will now have access to financial backing from the Big Four professional services group.

Shirley Brookes, senior partner at PwC Legal, said the new status could lead to fresh additions to the body’s 200-strong team of fee-earners.