By: 10 March 2022
Blacks Solicitors appoints head of banking to launch national practice

Blacks Solicitors has appointed Richard Morton to lead its banking team nationally.

Morton joins Leeds-headquartered Blacks as a partner and head of banking law following his time leading similar teams at Squire Patton Boggs and Gateley.

He will work closely with Nigel Hoyle, head of corporate law at Blacks, to further grow the law firm’s existing six-partner corporate team and to develop a standalone banking practice.

Commenting on his appointment, Morton said: “The Blacks corporate team is well established and has reached a level where the natural next stage for the firm is to develop a market-leading banking practice.”

Morton added: “It is an exciting time to be joining Blacks. We are expanding across all service areas, particularly corporate, real estate and banking. Blacks’ vision, values and its focus on diversity, inclusion and making a difference in the local community really resonates with me and our clients.”

The new banking team will provide advice on a range of specialisms including acquisition and leveraged finance, asset-based lending, real estate finance, and restructuring acting for both lenders and borrowers.

Chris Allen, managing partner at Blacks, added: “We are delighted to welcome Richard to the team. Richard is renowned as a leader in his field and brings with him significant management experience.”

“Richard joins us at a key stage in our development and he shares our excitement about the future of this great Yorkshire firm. Richard is completely aligned with our values and vision; he has lots of energy and ideas to take Blacks to the next level.”

Pictured: Nigel Hoyle, Richard Morton and Chris Allen