Withers lands in Texas to expand its US reach

Withers lands in Texas to expand its US reach

With Kevin Keen by its side, Wither's 10th US office primarily aims at wealthy Americans moving from the east and west coast to Texas

The UK law firm Withers has announced the launch of its new office in Texas.

The Texas office is the 10th for the firm in the US as it continues to strive to expand its private client and tax capabilities in the US.

Houston-based private client and tax partner Kevin Keen, who joined the firm earlier this year from Dallas business law firm Winstead PC will lead the Texas practice.

Keen was previously associated with Baker McKenzie, Holland & Knight and PwC. He maintains an active practice across both Texas and Florida.

In a statement, Withers has said that the Texas practice will focus on services relating to US and cross-border tax, estate and trust and mobility matters.

Keen has experience with domestic and international estate planning for ultra-high net worth individuals and families with interests in the US and abroad. It jells well with Wither's plans for its new venture in Texas.

"Kevin's expertise and relationships make him a natural fit for Withers' premiere private client and tax team as we strategically enhance our bench strength to continue addressing the needs of our global client base," Jay Dinwoodie, chief executive of Withers' global private client and tax division, said.

According to Dinwoodie, Withers was drawn to Texas' attractive business climate and competitive tax rates compared to other states — two factors that lend themselves to drawing in 'successful families' to the area.

"As we increasingly see families and businesses relocate to Texas from states such as California and New York, our new presence allows us to bring high quality planning advice to those clients," Dinwoodie explained.

Keen's practice also covers working with multinational families and non-US citizens on wealth transfer planning, pre-immigration and expatriation, asset protection, family office and private trust company formation and operation, as well as general tax minimisation planning matters.