A partner in the global law firm, Withers, has relocated from London to Hong Kong, as the company sees increased demand for international legal services throughout Asia, including issues such as new US anti-tax evasion laws.

Erik Wallace will focus on international tax, probate, and trust and estate planning, with a particular focus on US persons and property, Withers said in a statement.

Marcus Dearle, Withers’ managing partner Hong Kong commented on Erik’s relocation, “Erik’s services will be invaluable to our clients in the region, from American expats and citizens through to green card holders and Asians owning US stock and real estate.”

Jay Krause, head of wealth planning Asia at Withers added, “I am delighted to welcome Erik to the team in Asia as we anticipate a sustained increase in client demand for guidance and support around the US tax changes and the build-up to the implementation of FATCA.”

Beating the deadline

Earlier this month, Wallace urged American expats in Asia to use their exemptions on estate and gift taxes before expiry (year-end), in an exclusive interview with WealthBriefingAsia. (To view that article, click here.)

Furthermore, the announcement regarding Wallace’s relocation follows a number of new additions to, and promotions in, the Withers’ Asia team over the last six months.

Earlier this year, Withers opened its Singapore office promoting Jay Krause to head of wealth planning Asia. This was shortly followed by the launch of Withers’ first corporate practice in the region with the appointment of partner Gez Owen, head of international regulatory and corporate crime.

In the second half of the year, Rita Ku was promoted to become Withers’ first Chinese partner and Sharon Ser was promoted to senior regional partner.

Withers first opened its Hong Kong doors in 2008, as part of the firm’s drive to place offices in locations which enable it to serve families globally. The office has continued to expand since it opened, and now has tax, trusts and family law capabilities.