SEVERAL independent Scottish law firms are partnering to launch a new network called United Employment Lawyers.

The venture has been founded by Malcolm Mackay, formerly of Maclay Murray & Spens and Law at Work, and will have a central team based in Edinburgh and focus on employment related advice for businesses. Martin Ewart, formerly of Logica and HBOS, has been appointed chief executive and said: "This will break down barriers for both individuals and employers to receive excellent legal service across Scotland."

The member firms cover much of Scotland from Elgin to Galashiels.