Ernst & Young Goes Forward with Law Practice

According to a report in Legal Week [1], Ernst & Young has initiated its law capacity in this country with a New York connection to law firm Donahue & Partners. Eberhard Rohm, formerly of U.S. firm Fulbright & Jaworski, has joined Donahue & Partners as the firm's managing partner.

Mr. Rohm indicated that the alliance conforms with New York State Bar rules which allow American law firms to have a "side by side" alliance with accountants. The rules became effective November 1.

Previously it was reported [2] that E&Y would associate in New York with the firm McKee Nelson, but that arrangement was severed earlier this year after attempts by the Securities & Exchange Commission to block accountants offering legal and consultancy services to audit clients.

The Donahue office will concentrate on aiding European companies with interests in the U.S.