John is widely acknowledged as a leading business lawyer - both domestically and internationally - particularly in the areas of venture capital / private equity, mergers and acquisitions and inward investment, where he has over 20 years' experience. John will work closely with the firm's other leading business lawyers.
L to R above: Gerry Halpenny, Laurence K. Shields, John Olden and Emmet Scully.

Chairman of the firm, Laurence K. Shields, said: "We are tremendously pleased that John has decided to join our growing team. John's reputation both for his excellence and his commercial acumen fits perfectly with the firm generally and our Business Department in particular".

John's arrival brings the firm to 20 partners - the majority of whom are partners in the firm's Business Department.

Commenting on his appointment, John said: "LK Shields Solicitors' excellent reputation in top end corporate transactions work is what attracted me. I am looking forward to working with all of my new colleagues and to joining them in the provision of first class commercially-focused advice".

LK Shields Solicitors has regular involvement in high profile and complex transactions.

The firm is currently acting for long standing, client Communicorp Group Limited, in the proposed acquisition of EMap Plc's Irish radio assets - Today FM, FM104 and Highland Radio.

The firm is also involved in the ongoing takeovers of Calyx Group Plc - where it is advising the company - and Irish Continental Group Plc - where it is advising One51 Plc.

The firm has also recently advised its client, Atlantic Bridge Ventures, in relation to the GBP 265m buyout of the telecom products division of Logica Telecoms GMC - the largest buyout transaction in Europe in 2007 to date.