Withers has relocated City partner Katie Graves to Hong Kong in an effort to boost its Asia presence.

Graves moved to the region last month and sits within the Hong Kong wealth planning practice. Her transfer follows that of counsel Patrick Hamlin who relocated in September to head the Hong Kong litigation practice. Both moves come as Withers prepares to start offering local Hong Kong law in the new year.

Graves joined Withers in 1997 and became a partner in 2003. She specialises in advising international families in relation to the establishment of complex trust structures.

She said: "We have been expanding the team here in response to an increased demand in the sector and a greater commitment to Asia.

"There has been an explosion of wealth management issues regarding the transfer of wealth between generations and securing family assets for future generations. We're not actively looking to recruit anyone for this calendar year, but are always open to opportunities."

Withers also hired a team of family lawyers for its associated Hong Kong arm, Facey & Co, last month. The four-lawyer team, led by partner Sharon Ser, joined from local outfit Hampton Winter and Glynn.