DLA Piper is strengthening its Pensions practice in the North West with the appointment of Jane Smith and Beth Casinelli as associates within the Manchester office.

Jane has joined the firm from DWF and brings significant expertise of advising trustees in distressed situations and dealing with contentious pensions issues. She will work with trustees of pension schemes and DLA Piper’s corporate clients to support them on pensions issues.

Beth Casinelli, who is currently based in DLA Piper’s London office, will be relocating to the North West in February. Beth focuses on liability management exercises and scheme governance and works with trustees of multi-million pound pension schemes.

Claire Bell, Head of Pensions in the North West, said:

“We are delighted that Jane and Beth are joining our team in the North West. Their expertise perfectly complements our current practice and will further strengthen our capabilities in the region. Together with our existing team - Ben Miller (National Head of Pensions), Gary Davies (Legal Director), Kate Beech (Senior Associate) and Oritsema Ejuoneatse (Associate) - we are really looking forward to growing our market presence over the next few years.”