Recent mergers highlight significant changes in the legal sector, emphasising transatlantic collaborations and expansions.
- City law firm Herbert Smith Freehills (HSF) merges with US-based Kramer Levin to form a top 20 global firm.
- The merger will enhance HSF’s presence in the US with over 120 partners, surpassing international peers.
- Manchester’s HF expands by acquiring leading construction law firm Quigg Golden, bolstering its expertise and reach.
- The merger and acquisition activity reflects strategic growth and innovation across several law firms.
In a strategic move, Herbert Smith Freehills has announced a merger with the US firm Kramer Levin. This merger is set to position the combined entity within the top 20 global law firms in terms of both headcount and revenue. With a New York base, Kramer Levin brings 400 lawyers and reported an impressive turnover of $435 million in the past financial year. The merger will see over 2,700 lawyers, including approximately 640 partners across 25 offices worldwide, working under the new entity named Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer globally, and HSF Kramer in the US specifically.
Rebecca Maslen-Stannage, Chair and Senior Partner of Herbert Smith Freehills, described the merger as ‘transformational.’ She emphasized the firm’s longstanding commitment to expanding its US presence, asserting that Kramer Levin is an ideal match. This merger provides immediate growth and positions the firm as a significant competitor internationally.
Howard T. Spilko, Co-Managing Partner of Kramer Levin, echoed this sentiment, describing the union as a unique opportunity that aligns with Kramer Levin’s strategic growth goals. He highlighted the competitive advantage gained from expanded geographic reach and enhanced sector expertise, ultimately aiming for superior outcomes for international clients.
In a separate noteworthy acquisition, Manchester-based law firm HF has acquired Quigg Golden, enhancing its construction law expertise. Specialising in procurement and construction law, Quigg Golden’s team, including founders Edward Quigg and James Golden, along with 21 colleagues, has joined HF. Mr. Golden expressed optimism about joining HF, pointing to the potential for leveraging HF’s broader investment in innovation and its larger national footprint.
Additionally, the historic Hunters Law firm has merged with Peachey & Co., a corporate and commercial firm, thereby expanding its team to 28 partners and 28 associates. The expansion is aimed at inspiring Hunters’ workforce and delivering enhanced value to clients. Similarly, Black Norman, a Liverpool firm, has secured a six-figure loan to facilitate a management buyout and succession strategy, ensuring continuity and future growth.
Further illustrating the dynamic changes in the legal sector, Legal Studio has acquired GC Business Lawyers, enhancing its presence in the corporate legal sector. Meanwhile, Gotelee, a Suffolk firm, is transitioning to a more flexible working model alongside operational brand changes, and WorkNest has acquired Wirehouse Employer Services to broaden its HR and safety offerings. These developments demonstrate a sector undergoing significant transformation, with firms adapting through mergers, acquisitions, and strategic planning.
The legal sector is witnessing rapid transformations through strategic mergers and acquisitions, enhancing global competitiveness and expanding expertise.
