SJ Berwin has added to its European offering with partner hires in France and Italy.

Antitrust specialist Davide Balboni joins as a partner in the City firm's Milan office, while insolvency lawyer Nicolas Theys joins the partnership in Paris.

Balboni moves from international giant Baker & McKenzie while Theys switches from the local arm of US firm Weil Gotshal & Manges.

Balboni advises on all aspects of European Union (EU) and Italian competition law, especially on mergers, cartels and abuse of dominant position. His appointment brings the number of European partners in the firm's EU and competition practice to 13.

Commenting on the appointment of Balboni, SJ Berwin European competition chief Stephen Kon said: "After an absolutely fantastic year, in which our EU and competition practice grew strongly, I am delighted that we continue to attract the brightest and the best to our pan-European team.

"We're really pleased that a lawyer of Davide's calibre is further adding to our capability in Milan and Europe as a whole."

Meanwhile, the arrival of Theys, who specialises in advising companies in financial distress, brings the number of lawyers in the firm's Paris office to 55, including 14 partners.

Paris managing partner George Pinkham commented: "This symbolises the continuing growth of our team and enriches our existing expertise in the spheres of private equity and M&A."