Hogan Lovells has launched a trade practice in London with the hire of a partner from Squire Patton Boggs, in response to client demand ahead of the UK's exit from the EU next year.

The transatlantic firm has recruited trade partner Aline Doussin, who has joined Hogan Lovells' City office today (16 April) as the firm's first dedicated trade partner in London.

With Doussin's addition, the firm now has 14 trade specialist partners around the world.

She had been a partner at Squire Patton Boggs since 2016, where she established the US firm's trade practice in London. She joined the firm in 2014, before which she was an associate at DLA Piper.

She specialises in international trade, including export control and sanctions, EU regulatory and investigations, and public policy.

Hogan Lovells UK and Africa managing partner Susan Bright said: "Aline's experience will be of particular importance as the UK continues with its plans to withdraw from the EU, where we are working closely with our clients on a range of issues, including dealing with the impact on their global supply chains."

Her arrival at Hogan Lovells comes as firms respond to an upturn in client demand for advice on trade, following the 2016 Brexit vote.

Fellow transatlantic firm Eversheds Sutherland told Legal Week last month it is focusing on growing its German, Dutch and Paris offices, particularly in the financial services sector, in response to Brexit.

Meanwhile, Fieldfisher has teamed up with legal process outsourcer Integreon in a deal that gives the firm new scope to tackle large-scale routine work for clients facing challenges presented by issues including Brexit.

SPB said: "We thank Aline for her contributions during her time with the firm and wish her well in the future."