Foot Anstey McKees is marking the first anniversary of its strategic tie-up with double digit growth, expanded capability, increased cross-jurisdictional collaboration and the announcement that it will move forward under the name Foot Anstey from 1 September 2026.
The tie-up, announced in June 2025, brought together McKees’ 138-year legacy in Northern Ireland with Foot Anstey’s national reach and multi-jurisdictional expertise, creating a combined team able to support clients across both English and Northern Irish jurisdictions.
The new name reflects the next chapter for the firm in Northern Ireland, following a year of growth shaped by the strength of the two firms coming together, while recognising the reputation, relationships and values built under the McKees name.
Over the past 12 months, the Belfast office has strengthened its senior team with the appointment of three new partners: Alastair Keith in Corporate, Chris Milligan in Real Estate, Energy & Infrastructure, and Michael Kelly in Banking & Finance. The appointments have enhanced the firm’s ability to support complex transactions and strategic projects.
The firm has also continued to build its presence in the local business community, advising clients across multiple sectors including banking, hospitality, leisure, retail, real estate and infrastructure.
Martin Hirst, Managing Partner of Foot Anstey said: “One year on, the tie-up has delivered exactly what we hoped for – a stronger cross-jurisdictional team, deeper sector expertise and a more seamless experience for clients operating across Northern Ireland and England. We’re proud of the progress we’ve made together and looking forward to the next chapter.”
Chris Ross, Partner and Head of Belfast office said: “The past 12 months have demonstrated the strength of our combined teams and the opportunities created through the partnership. We’re continuing to invest in our people, expand our offering and support our communities through initiatives focused on social mobility and early careers. As we transition to the Foot Anstey name we do so proudly, building on the legacy of McKees. That legacy will continue to evolve through the same commitment, values and culture that have shaped the firm for many years. With a clear ambition for continued growth, we move forward with confidence in the future.”
In addition to commercial growth, the firm has extended its responsible business activity in Northern Ireland. This includes the launch of Accelerate Belfast, an early careers programme designed to support first-year law students who may face additional barriers to entering the legal profession. The firm has also established a long-term strategic partnership with Young Enterprise Northern Ireland, expanding their RISE programme to two schools and supporting young people at risk of disengaging from education to explore different career pathways.