DAC Beachcroft has absorbed thee-partner Spanish healthcare law boutique Asjusa. The move adds a 20-strong team of professional liability and insurance lawyers to the firm’s Madrid office, more than doubling its size.

The team advises public and private health organisations and their insurers on contentious and regulatory matters.

The deal forms part of the UK-based firm’s strategy to build an international insurance law practice in key markets throughout the UK, Europe, Asia Pacific and Latin America.

David Pollitt, DAC Beachcroft’s managing partner, said: “International growth is a cornerstone of our strategy to bolster the global support and sustainable value we provide to our clients. This highly strategic combination, which augments both our insurance and health offering, does just that.”

Asjusa managing partner Eduardo Asensi Pallarés added: “Our team has spent years developing close relationships with the health public services in Spain, and we have guided them through healthcare public sector changes in the region, including hardening conditions.”

Last year DAC Beachcroft opened offices in Paris and Belfast. It is also a founding member of Legalign Global, an alliance of four law firms with 60 offices across the globe.

Last month, listed UK firm DWF acquired 40-partner Spanish outfit Rousaud Costas Duran (RCD) for up to €50.5m (£42.5m) in shares and cash while earlier this month Spanish independent ECIJA gained a Mexican office with the acquisition of Chacón & Rodríguez