Clayton Utz and Haley & Co. to end their association in Hong Kong

25 March 2014: Clayton Utz and Haley & Co. have mutually agreed to end their association effective from 30 June 2014.

Clayton Utz chief executive partner Darryl McDonough said the move reflected the evolution of Clayton Utz's international strategy and our focus on being Australia's pre-eminent top tier independent law firm.

"We entered into a formal association with Haley & Co. in 2010. We had been undertaking work in the wider Asia Pacific region for several years so it made sense to have an on the ground presence in Hong Kong," said Mr McDonough.

"However with the changes in the legal services market we have developed a clear strategic focus on being Australia's pre-eminent top tier independent law firm with deep relationships with a comprehensive network of "best in market" law firms in key international jurisdictions. The success of that clear strategic focus led us to a mutual agreement with Haley & Co. to withdraw from our association."

Glenn Haley, the senior partner of Haley & Co., said the ending of the association would have no effect on the Hong Kong office. "We will remain in close contact with our former colleagues at Clayton Utz with whom we have enjoyed an amicable and positive relationship over the last four years. From our perspective it is business as usual as we continue to build on our strengths in projects, construction and international arbitration."