Allen & Overy (A&O) has hired launched a Japanese-law practice in Tokyo after hiring a bengoshi from Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer.

Nobuo Nakata, who specialises in corporate, M&A and structured finance work, joins the City giant's local arm and will co-head its Japanese law practice alongside another new arrival, Osamu Ito.

Ito joins the magic circle firm from local outfit Asahi Koma Law Offices and specialises in corporate work, M&A, joint ventures and intellectual property. Ito and Nakata both join the firm as partners.

A&O previously practised UK and US law in Tokyo but had no local-law capability.

The appointments come as Tokyo-based banking partner Aled Davies takes over as local managing partner from outgoing incumbent Cees Vellekoop. Vellekoop is to retire after 26 years with the firm, which will now practise locally as Allen & Overy Gaikokuho Kyodo Jigyo Horitsu Jimusho.

Commenting on the appointments, A&O's Asia practice head, Brian Harrison, said: "With additional capabilities and more resources, we look forward to offering our clients integrated international and Japanese legal services."