Irwin Mitchell has joined law firm network First Law International (FLI), in its latest move to broaden its international reach via relationships.

FLI consists of 80 law firms and represents over 14,000 lawyers, and Irwin Mitchell will operate as its "main UK firm".

Chief executive of Irwin Mitchell's business legal services chief executive Victoria Brackett said: "FLI will not only help increase the amount of incoming work we generate from overseas, it will also offer a wide spread of jurisdictional coverage with firms of a size capable of supporting most queries that our client base could require."

Irwin Mitchell does not operate any offices outside of the UK, and has traditionally relied on close ties to a roster of international firms to widen its reach. The firm is a part of The Bridge Group, a network of 12 US firms, as well as a founder and board member of Avrio Advocati, a network of 40 primarily European firms. Irwin Mitchell will continue to be a part of those networks.

FLI principal Orlando Casares added: "The UK is a key territory for our member firms and their clients and I believe with Brexit on the horizon, it is vital that we have a highly credible, top tier law firm in place which can provide the necessary support and guidance."

Earlier this year, Irwin Mitchell reported a slow-down in growth in the firm's second full financial year since their merger with regional firm Thomas Eggar in 2015.