International law firm Womble Bond Dickinson (WBD) has strengthened its UK-wide restructuring and insolvency practice with the appointment of Bristol-based partner Alan Bennett.

Joining from Ashfords, where he headed up the restructuring and insolvency practice, Alan is a recognised leader in his field advising on high-value contentious and non-contentious matters for a wide range of clients including insolvency practitioners, directors, lenders and private clients. He also specialises in cross-border insolvency work particularly in the US, Europe, Australia and Asia.

Alan has a strong track record advising on a broad range of restructuring and insolvency issues, including antecedent transactions, sale and purchase of insolvent businesses, advice on Centre of Main Interest issues, recognition of foreign insolvency proceedings as well as general advice to corporates facing financial difficulties.

In The Legal 500 directory, Alan was described by clients as "a very knowledgeable, commercial and pragmatic lawyer", "exceptional in his guidance" and "something of a legend in the market".

Andy Stirk, Partner and WBD's National Head of Restructuring in the UK, commented:

"We're pleased to welcome Alan to the firm and to our growing UK-wide insolvency practice. Alan's experience and specialism in cross-border work brings a significant amount of complementary expertise to our Bristol team and he will play an important role in bolstering our regional, national and international offering."

Alan added:

"WBD has a strong reputation across the UK and US with an impressive client portfolio. I look forward to working with colleagues here in Bristol, and across the UK and beyond, to support our clients and boost the firm's insolvency practice in the South West.”

Alan Bennett