Former Field Fisher Waterhouse franchising lawyer Mark Abell has joined Bird & Bird in a newly created position, after a protracted dispute with his former firm over his move.

Abell quit his former firm in February this year and was suspended from the partnership. He subsequently turned to Herbert Smith Freehills litigation partner Alan Watts to represent him in a partnership dispute with Field Fisher, which is thought to have alleged breach of partnership agreement.

Field Fisher instructed Winckworth Sherwood employment partner Jo Keddie on the dispute.

Abell, who joins Bird & Bird as a partner today (17 June), will take up the new role of head of franchising, licensing and multi-channel strategies, leading two other franchising partners in the group – Victoria Hobbs and Graeme Payne, who joined from Field Fisher in May. Hobbs was head of franchise dispute resolution at her former firm.

Bird & Bird chief executive David Kerr said: "There are excellent synergies between Mark's expertise, the clients he works for and Bird & Bird's strong reputation for protecting and commercialising ideas and brands.

"His practice aligns closely with our experience helping clients in industries that are being disrupted by technology. In addition, his practice is extremely international, which fits with our expanding global footprint. This is a very exciting move for the firm."

Abell, who joined Field Fisher in 1984, is top rated for UK franchising work by Chambers and Partners.

While at Field Fisher, key work has included acting for toy retailer Hamleys on its international expansion, as well as the development and brand expansion of Management Recruiters International, one of the world's largest search and recruitment organisations.