Moves:
UK & Ireland
DLA Piper strengthens global Private Equity team with strategic appointment of Chris Field
DLA Piper has appointed private equity veteran Chris Field to its Corporate practice in London, effective September 2025. Chris joins from Dechert.
Linklaters strengthens Corporate and Structured Lending practice with Mei Lian
Linklaters has hired Mei Lian as a partner in its Corporate and Structured Lending practice in London. She joins from Paul Hastings.
Goodwin Boosts Private Equity Practice with Debt Finance Partner Matthew Ayre in London
Goodwin announced that leading debt finance lawyer Matthew Ayre will be joining the firm’s Private Equity practice as a partner in its London office. Matthew joins from Travers Smith.
O’Flynn Exhams welcomes new partner Colm Manning
O’Flynn Exhams LLP has welcomed Colm Manning back to the firm as a corporate/M&A and commercial partner. Mr Manning rejoins the Cork-based firm, having previously worked for it in 2014. He joins from William Fry.
The Americas
Latham Makes Major Antitrust Play on Both Sides of the Atlantic
Latham & Watkins has hired top-tier antitrust litigator David Marriott from Cravath in New York, after years of collaboration in merger trials. The move follows the addition of Alfonso Lamadrid de Pablo in Brussels, with Latham now boasting leading antitrust hires on both U.S. and European fronts.
Weil hires IP partner trio from Latham & Watkins to strengthen tech litigation bench
Doug Lumish, Jeff Homrig, and Gabe Gross join Weil from Latham, with Lumish and Homrig returning to co-lead the firm’s IP, tech and science litigation practice. The hires deepen Weil’s trial bench across Silicon Valley, San Francisco and Texas.
Tim Donohue Joins Anselmi & Carvelli as Partner
A veteran white-collar litigator, Donohue brings deep expertise in federal investigations, fraud, and public corruption cases. He’s widely respected for handling high-stakes, reputation-sensitive matters.
Latham Adds Tax Partner Estelle Philippi in Paris
Joining from White & Case, Philippi brings deep experience in transactional tax, advising on M&A, restructurings, and cross-border deals. Her hire comes as France eyes major tax reforms amid a €44B budget gap.
Wiggin and Dana Adds Trusts & Estates Partner in Greenwich
Jevera Hennessey joins from Whitman Breed, bolstering the firm’s private client services team. A well-known figure in Greenwich’s legal community, she brings decades of estate planning and tax expertise.
EMEA
CMS is continuing its strategic focus on high-growth areas of law and is specifically strengthening its prestigious patent law practice with the addition of well-known litigation lawyers, Dr Stephan Dorn and Dr Constantin Kurtz, who join the firm as Partners.
Katharina von Hermanni appointed Head of Real Estate Germany at ASD
Katharina von Hermanni is set to become Head of Real Estate Germany at Arnecke Sibeth Dabelstein (ASD). She joins from international law firm Pinsent Masons, where she was responsible for growth in the alternative assets sector as German Real Estate Sector Head. In addition, Irene Nezer-Kasch, also from Pinsent Masons, will become part of the ASD team as a salary partner.
Two new partners at GSK Stockmann
GSK Stockmann is strengthening its partner level with two new signings. Simon Spangler moves from Oppenhoff, Bernd Graßl was most recently at GLNS.
APAC
RPC Adds Corporate Partner Hilda Chan in Hong Kong
Just months after joining Nixon Peabody, Hilda Chan moves to RPC to strengthen its China-facing corporate offering. Her hire comes amid growing client demand across mainland China.
Ashurst Takes Another M&A Partner from HSF Kramer in Australia
Amelia Morgan is set to join Ashurst after spending the last 14 years at Herbert Smith Freehills.
Clifford Chance’s Rodolphe Ruffié-Farrugia jumps to Perth partnership at K&L Gates
Rodolphe Ruffié-Farrugia has joined the Perth partnership at K&L Gates, making the jump from Clifford Chance.
SAM Strengthens PE/M&A Practice by Recruiting Harshita Srivastava
Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas in Mumbai hires Harshita Srivastava from Nishith Desai, where she co‑headed the private equity and M&A practice. With over 16 years of experience in cross-border deals, exits and PE investments, she also brings expertise in employment and labour law and to India’s SEBI Innovative Growth Platform committee.
Jia Yuan Boosts Hong Kong Office With Hires From Fangda, Jones Day
Disputes partner Howard Chan and corporate counsel Wenxing Feng join Jia Yuan in Hong Kong, strengthening its litigation and capital markets capabilities. Chan marks the firm’s third HK partner hire in under a year.
Bird & Bird Launches SE Asia R&I Group With BlackOak Team
Ashok Kumar and Darius Tay join Bird & Bird in Singapore from BlackOak, bringing a team to lead its new restructuring and insolvency practice in Southeast Asia. The move bolsters the firm’s cross-border capabilities in a growing regional hub.
Jones Day Snaps Up Australian Labor Law Heavyweight from Ashurst
Jones Day has hired employment and labor partner James Hall from Ashurst to join its office in Brisbane, Australia.
Rajah & Tann Snags Arbitration Head From Nishimura & Asahi’s Singapore Alliance Partner
Singapore law firm Rajah & Tann has added a disputes partner to its office in the city-state. Paras Lalwani joins after two years at Bayfront Law, where he was a director and head of the international arbitration practice.
Indonesia’s Trilexica strengthens corporate practice with hire from WCA
Jakarta-based law firm Trilexica has grown its corporate offering with the hire of capital markets specialist Girindra Henriyono as a partner from Witara Cakra Advocates (WCA), White & Case’s erstwhile Indonesia association firm.
In-House
Deutsche Bank lines up Freshfields’ European white-collar crime head as next GC
German banking giant Deutsche Bank has lined up Simone Kämpfer as its next general counsel, replacing Friederike Rotsch. Kämpfer joins from Freshfields.
Team Moves
Arnold & Porter hires partner group from K&L Gates to launch in Seattle
The incoming lawyers are litigator Pallavi Mehta Wahi, Annette Becker and Patrick Madden. The firm has also added a fourth lawyer from K&L Gates – employment litigator Rosemary Alito – who will join in Newark.
Atlanta Real Estate Momentum Grows as Five-Lawyer Team Joins Barnes & Thornburg
Partners Michael Henson and Daniel Noice will head the team in Atlanta of Associates Rebecca A. Griffith, Joseph Guardino, and Olivia Pounds. They all join from Morris, Manning & Martin.
Lowenstein Gains Ex-Kasowitz White Collar Partner Amid IP Team Defection From Schulte Roth & Zabel
New York litigation firm Kasowitz has brought on a four-partner intellectual property team from Schulte Roth & Zabel. The team compromises of Timothy Gilman, who will lead the team, along with Natalie Lieber, Daniel Apgar and Robert Pickens.
International law firm Cozen O’Connor today announced three of California’s foremost IP litigators — Nicola A. (Nick) Pisano, Scott A. Penner, and Jose L. (Joe) Patiño — have joined its award-winning and fast-growing Intellectual Property Department. They all join from Eversheds Sutherland.
King & Wood Mallesons Brings On Linklaters Lawyers in 9-Person Hong Kong Expansion
Partners Chin-Chong Liew and Ying Zhou are joining with a team of six lawyers who will sit in the firm’s derivatives, structured finance and digital assets group. Separately, King & Wood Mallesons is hiring former Ashurst partner Damien Whitehead to lead its Hong Kong restructuring practice.
Womble Bond Dickinson Doubles Nashville Office With Neal & Harwell Team
Womble has hired 20 lawyers—15 partners and five associates—from storied litigation boutique Neal & Harwell. The move significantly boosts its commercial litigation and restructuring bench ahead of the boutique’s closure later this month.
Promotions & Appointments:
WilmerHale Announces Judith Hasko as Chair of Transactional Department
WilmerHale announced today that Judith Hasko, nationally recognized life sciences and market-leading transactional lawyer, will chair the firm’s Transactional Department, succeeding Mick Bain, following his retirement at the end of the calendar year after three decades of service to the firm.
New leadership at Uría Menéndez in Portugal
Uría Menéndez confirmed Antonio Villacampa in his role as managing partner and appointed Marta Pontes to the same position at the firm’s Portugal office. They will both take up their roles on 1 January 2026, under a co-leadership model that has contributed to the firm’s development and consolidation in Portugal.
K&L Gates Reshuffles Practice Group Leadership
Global law firm K&L Gates announced this week the appointment of 14 partners to serve as leaders in various practice areas across the firm’s worldwide platform. The partners are as follows:
Mergers & Alliances:
Stinson Merges with California Boutique, Adds Offices in San Francisco, Irvine
Stinson is set to merge with Severson & Werson, adding 30 banking and financial litigation lawyers and new offices in San Francisco and Orange County. The move follows its Century City entry earlier this year, cementing statewide coverage.
Al Tamimi Makes Morocco Comeback With Ex-A&O Lawyer Tie-Up
Al Tamimi & Company has partnered with KZ & Partners to re-establish its Casablanca presence, led by former A&O partner Omar Zizi. The move supports its North Africa growth strategy ahead of the FIFA World Cup.
McDermott-Schulte merger name confirmed as $2.8bn tie-up gets partner approval
Partners at McDermott Will & Emery and Schulte Roth & Zabel have voted ‘overwhelmingly’ in favour of their merger, with the combined firm set to go live on 1 August. The merged firm will take the name McDermott Will & Schulte, with more than 1,750 lawyers in total across more than 20 offices around the world, including what will be the ninth largest law firm presence in New York.
Nutter Expands to California and Hawaii With T&E Boutique Mergers
Boston-based Nutter has opened offices in Orinda and Honolulu through combinations with Hartog Baer and Matsumoto Law, adding 14 lawyers in California. The move deepens its national trust and estates offering and wealth management capabilities.
Johnson Pope Merges With Todd Foster Law Group in Tampa
Veteran white-collar lawyer Todd Foster joins as equity partner alongside his team, expanding Johnson Pope’s criminal defense and federal litigation capabilities in its largest office.
Office Openings & Closing:
Lawson Huck Gonzalez Taps Duane Morris Litigator to Launch New Miami Office
Tallahassee-based Lawson Huck Gonzalez expands into Miami, led by Ed Patricoff from Duane Morris. The firm, known for its conservative litigation ties, now has seven attorneys based in the city.
Cozen O’Connor Opens Second San Diego Office, Adds IP Litigator Quartet
Cozen O’Connor has launched a new North County San Diego office, welcoming four IP litigators from Eversheds Sutherland and Buchalter. The group includes Nicola Pisano, Scott Penner, Regis Worley, and Jose Patiño.
Arnold & Porter Enters Seattle with Four-Partner Hire from K&L Gates
Arnold & Porter has launched a Seattle office, led by former K&L Gates Seattle head Pallavi Mehta Wahi. She’ll also chair the firm’s western U.S. strategic growth as part of its broader West Coast expansion.
Legal Aid NSW opens new office in Moree
Legal Aid NSW has announced the official opening of its permanent ‘shopfront’ office in Moree, with dedicated local team members who can furnish legal assistance to people in the town and northwestern New South Wales.
Dubai Chambers opens first overseas hub in London offering legal services
Dubai Chambers has launched its first overseas hub in London offering legal services to individuals and businesses seeking to establish operations in Dubai. Dubai Hub London aims to strengthen ties between Dubai and the UK, creating new investment opportunities. London was selected as the first hub due to its global financial status and access to a broad investor base keen to engage with Dubai’s growing market, according to a statement.
Financials:
CMS reaches €2.073m in revenue
CMS closed the 2024 financial year with a global turnover of €2.073 millions, representing an increase of 5.9% over the previous year. This growth has been accompanied by expansion in key areas such as corporate/M&A, litigation, real estate and construction, employment, and banking and finance, according to the firm.
Osborne Clarke posts record international revenues at EUR 547.5m
During the 2024 calendar year, Osborne Clarke’s international revenues grew by 11%, creating five-year growth of 72%. Income during the UK reporting period of May 2024 – April 2025 grew 4% to EUR 547.5m growth.
Revenue and profits up at Simmons
Simmons & Simmons has reported a 7% rise in revenue to £615 million for the 2024/25 financial year, alongside a 5% increase in PEP, continuing its impressive upward trajectory over recent years. PEP rose to £1.13 million, while overall profit grew 6% to £215 million. The results mark a 50% increase in PEP and a 70% rise in profit over the past five years. Revenue, meanwhile, has also climbed 50% in that time.
2025 GC Pay Report: The Full List, From No. 1 to No. 544
The report, produced by Corporate Counsel and ALM Intelligence, is based on an analysis of Fortune 1000 companies’ proxy statements covering fiscal years ending after June 30, 2024. The report is the most complete analysis of public company legal chief compensation available from any source. But it’s an imperfect snapshot of the pay landscape. That’s because, under Securities and Exchange Commission, rules, companies generally disclose pay for only their five most-highly paid executives, which often includes the legal chief but not always.
Penningtons Manches reappoints CEO, grows revenue to £120m
Penningtons Manches Cooper has reappointed its chief executive officer after growing revenue 7% in the 2025 financial year to £120m. The firm’s latest results mark its 16th consecutive year of revenue growth. In FY25 it also grew profit 18.4% to £42m and profit per equity partner (PEP) by 25% to £555k.
Travers Smith, Mishcon de Reya raise NQ pay
Travers Smith and Mishcon de Reya have raised pay for their newly qualified lawyers, signalling the continued importance of junior lawyers in the battle for talent. Travers has upped its base NQ salary to £130k, while Mishcon will hand out £100k from September.
Technology & Innovation:
Wilson Sonsini Completes Sale of SixFifty Technologies
Founded in 2019 by noted legal technologist Kimball Dean Parker in Utah’s vibrant Silicon Slopes, SixFifty was established in partnership with Wilson Sonsini to combine the firm’s deep legal experience with innovative automation technology, helping businesses obtain cost-effective, high-quality legal compliance and risk management solutions. Wilson Sonsini announced the successful completion of the sale of its legal technology subsidiary, SixFifty Technologies, LLC (SixFifty), to a leading human capital management company. While the terms of the transaction remain confidential, the acquisition ranks among the largest involving a law firm technology asset.
EU AI Act’s ‘General-Purpose AI’ Rules Now in Effect, But Enforcement Challenges Loom
From August 2, certain general-purpose AI systems must comply with the EU AI Act, with existing models given until 2027. However, how compliance—especially around copyright—and enforcement will unfold remains uncertain, posing unique risks for AI providers.
How Legora Became a Leading Name in Legal AI
Founded in Stockholm in early 2023 as ‘Leya,’ Legora has rapidly grown into one of the legal industry’s fastest-expanding generative AI companies. This week, Mishcon de Reya announced a firmwide rollout of Legora’s platform, joining peers like Harvery AI and Springbok AI in the legaltech AI surge. The startup’s swift adoption reflects the broader rush to integrate AI-powered tools across law firms worldwide.
Litera accelerates legal workflows to help lawyers deliver faster, smarter results for clients
Litera, a global leader in legal technology solutions, has announced the next phase of its ongoing Road to ILTACON innovation, introducing four new additions and numerous enhancements to Litera One —the legal sector’s first all-in-one, AI-powered platform fully integrated with Microsoft 365. Litera One is a Gold Microsoft Partner and has been widely adopted by leading Am Law 100, Am Law 200, and Fortune 500 firms around the world.
Diversity & Inclusion:
Williams Commission Endorses Latino Judges Association Report on Representation
A 26-member blue-ribbon panel of the state court system has given its stamp of approval to a recent report that called out various communities with sizable Latino populations that still have little or no judicial representation. The commission, which is charged with promoting racial and ethnic fairness in the court system, “wholeheartedly agrees that there is a need on the part of all stakeholders to commit to fostering diversity amongst the judiciary,” went its statement. “Diversity is not just a buzzword; it is a complex issue, and a necessary component of a fair and equitable justice system where people of all backgrounds, colours, and creeds are represented.”
Law Firms Make Up 1 in 3 Top Global Employers On Stonewall LGBT Index
HSF Kramer, Pinsent Masons and Clyde & Co were all awarded ‘Gold’ employer status by Stonewall, as part of their ‘Top Global Employers’ rankings for the year 2025. Meanwhile, several other firms including A&O Shearman, Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner, Freshfields and Simmons & Simmons were all recognised with a ‘Silver’ award for the same index. The rankings mean that the seven law firms named make up one third of the 21 global organisations named.
Market Commentary:
Why Private Equity is (Still) All About Individual Relationships
Even as the industry has ballooned in size and various law firms and clients have attempted to institutionalize relationships, the situation remains: the individuals with the deepest ties still hold the reins to the key relationships—and it doesn’t look like they are open to handing them over anytime soon. “Everything about private equity is personal,” said one leading partner. “It’s all down to who you know, who you wine and dine with, who you play golf with, who you stay up late in the trenches with. These guys need someone they can trust, and once you’ve proven your loyalty, it’s pretty water tight.”
Law Firms in Australia Look to Energy Transition for Revenue Growth
Law firms in Australia expect the country’s shift to a low-carbon economy to be a major source of growth in the coming years, but lawyers who can carry out the highly specialized work are in short supply. Firms say energy transition-related work has increased markedly in the past couple of years. It’s up by about 50% at Ashurst, and the firm has identified supporting clients in the energy transition as a key pillar of its 2027 strategy.
Leadership, Not Plans, Drives Success in Uncertain Times
Allan Schoenberg of Vinson & Elkins stresses that while crisis plans matter, authentic and clear leadership shapes how organizations respond and recover. In a fast-moving, complex world, trust, decisive communication, and adaptability are essential. Leaders must prepare beyond protocols by identifying trusted crisis figures and embedding communication early. Character and influence—not just competence—build lasting credibility when uncertainty strikes.
Top Specialist Firm: Inside Immigration Solutions’ legal strategy
With global conflict, labour shortages, and domestic policy shifts placing pressure on Australia’s immigration system, boutique firms are stepping up to meet the moment. Australasian Lawyer has named Immigration Solutions Lawyers a Top Specialist Firm for 2025, recognising its strong legal advocacy and deep commitment to justice. The firm’s work spans humanitarian and corporate matters, but it’s the human impact cases that continue to resonate. O’Donoghue reflected on one standout case—a two-year effort to reunite an Afghan judge with her brother’s family, after the tragic loss of her husband. “We finally got them into Australia. The client gave us a handwoven tapestry with our firm’s name. It meant the world.”.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Freshfields adds London PE real estate duo from Ropes & Gray
Partners David Seymour and Will Bryant join Freshfields from Ropes & Gray in London. Both will join the firms Private Equity Real Estate team.
Vinson & Elkins Poaches Upcott From A&O Shearman
Harry Upcott joined Vinson & Elkins as a partner in its finance practice in London. He joins from A&O Shearman, where he had served as Partner since 2009.
Simmons & Simmons snaps up employment talent
Simmons & Simmons has expanded its employment practice in the UK and Ireland, announcing the hire of two employment partners, Vicky Wickremeratne and Colleen Cleary, to its London and Dublin offices, respectively. Wickremeratne joins from an in-house stint at Millennium Capital Partners, while Cleary joins from CC solicitors after its acquisition by Simmons & Simmons.
Leading Structured Finance Partner Joins in London
Squire Patton Boggs is pleased to announce that Ranajoy Basu will join the firm’s London office as partner in the Financial Services Practice Group where, he will serve as Global Head of Structured Finance and Head of the firm’s India practice. He joins from McDermott Will & Emery.
Nishimura grows new London office with return of alum as partner
Leading Japanese law firm Nishimura & Asahi has welcomed back Shingo Ito as a partner in its recently launched London office after nearly a decade at international firms including Bird & Bird, where he most recently served as legal director.
The Americas
McDermott attracts elite private client talent with the addition of David Pratt
International law firm McDermott Will & Emery has announced that David Pratt, one of the nation’s most respected private client lawyers, has joined the firm as a partner based in Boca Raton, Florida. David previously chaired the nationally ranked Private Client Services group at Proskauer.
Global law firm Freshfields has announced that Agnès Dunogué joined as a partner and co-head of the U.S. Securities and Shareholder Litigation practice. Leaving A&O Shearman, she’ll join co-head Meredith Kotler in leading the practice group.
Paul Hastings Boosts Global Tax Team With Rising-Star Partner in New York
Paul Hastings LLP announced today that Sherry Xie has joined the firm as a partner in New York, bolstering its global tax practice. Sherry joins from Kirkland & Ellis.
Ex-US Attorney Leaves Holland & Knight for Dallas Boutique
Richard B. Roper has joined Vartabedian Hester & Haynes in Texas after having served as Partner at Holland & Knight since 2008.
Bradley Adds Allison Cook to Banking & Financial Services Team in Atlanta
Allison Cook joins Bradley as Partner in the Atlanta office, having previously worked at Arnall Golden Gregory.
Greenspoon Marder Bolsters Atlanta Office with Strategic Hire in Sports and Entertainment Law
Greenspoon Marder has announced the addition of partner Cathy Hampton in the Atlanta office, expanding the firm’s Entertainment and Sports and Corporate practice groups. She joins from The Hampton Firm.
EMEA
Greenberg Traurig expands Middle East hospitality group with Squire Patton Boggs partner addition
Greenberg Traurig has strengthened its global hospitality group with the addition of Elias Hayek who joins from Squire Patton Boggs, where he led the firm’s global hospitality and leisure group for close to a decade.
Mayer Brown’s PE practice grows with Hogan Lovells partner
Mayer Brown is strengthening its private equity practice with another partner. Nikolai Sokolov will move from Hogan Lovells to Mayer Brown’s Frankfurt office in August.
Norton Rose Fulbright boosts Brussels competition offering with new partner duo
Global law firm Norton Rose Fulbright has further strengthened its GCR Global Elite antitrust and competition practice with the appointment of two new partners in Brussels. Jean-Nicolas Maillard and Yves Botteman, who both join from Dentons, have worked together since 2014.
APAC
Covenant expands further with addition from Dentons Rodyk
Singapore boutique law firm Covenant Chambers has hired disputes specialist Chia Huai Yuan as a director from Dentons Rodyk & Davidson,
Singapore firm Tang Thomas makes 2nd partner hire in less than a month
Singapore boutique law firm Tang Thomas has appointed Ammar Lulla as partner and co-head of its disputes and healthcare practices. He joins from Cairnhill Law.
Reed Smith hires Haitong International director as debt finance partner
Reed Smith has strengthened its Asia corporate practice with the appointment of Evelyn Wang as a partner in its Hong Kong office. She joins from Haitong International Securities group.
Hong Kong’s Georgiou Partnership hires IP partner from PwC-linked Tiang
Hong Kong law firm Georgiou Partnership, which was launched last year, has hired intellectual property and data protection specialist Chiang Ling Li as a partner from PwC-linked firm Tiang & Partners.
Singapore’s JTJB launches construction, infra practice with WFW hire
Singapore-headquartered Joseph Tan Jude Benny (JTJB) has launched a construction and infrastructure practice with the hire of Boon Tat Yeo as a senior partner from Watson Farley & Williams.
In-House
Adtech business MiQ hires group GC from Stagwell Brand Performance amid AI push
AI-powered adtech business MiQ has hired Matt Speiser as group general counsel, a newly created role at the company as it plans for its next phase of growth. Speiser joined from marketing company Stagwell Brand Performance Network, where he was also GC.
Away Resorts Ltd. Adds new General Counsel
Shauneen Kelly has joined Away Resorts as General Counsel after serving as Legal Director as Belmond.
Team Moves
‘Doubling down on private capital’: Mayer Brown adds three partners from Dechert
Mayer Brown has hired three senior partners from Dechert in London, adding firepower to its private capital practice across both leveraged finance and M&A. The hires include leveraged finance duo Philip Butler and David Miles, who previously co-led Dechert’s global leveraged finance practice, and private equity partner Mark Evans.
Promotions & Appointments:
Macfarlanes Senior Partner update
When Sebastian Prichard Jones’ current second term as Senior Partner expires on 31 March 2026, Damien Crossley will succeed him in the role.
Freshfields’ Dawson elected to serve a second term as senior partner
Freshfields’ senior partner, Georgia Dawson, has been elected to serve a second term as senior partner alongside a trimmed-down team of co-managing partners.
Colm Kincaid appointed deputy governor in Central Bank of Ireland
The Central Bank of Ireland has appointed Colm Kincaid as deputy governor for consumer and investor protection.
Laura Koller is the new chief financial officer at global firm Kennedys
Laura Koller has been named the new chief financial officer at global litigation and dispute resolution firm Kennedys, where she will head up its global financial strategy from New Jersey.
Clyde & Co names Steven Lurie as insurance partner in Sydney
Clyde & Co has announced Steven Lurie’s promotion to partner in its insurance team in Sydney.
LoopMe promotes new General Counsel
Paolo Cerroni has been promoted to General Counsel at LoopMe in London.
Mergers & Alliances:
Simmons & Simmons absorbs Dublin employment boutique
Dedicated Irish employment practice launched via acquisition of boutique CC.
Maynard Nexsen Doubles Atlanta Footprint by Adding Real Estate Boutique Miller Lavoie
Maynard Nexsen is set to merge with Atlanta real estate boutique Miller Lavoie on July 31, doubling its local headcount. The deal brings in highly sought-after talent and expands the firm’s real estate capabilities in Georgia.
Fennemore Acquires Denver-Based Galvanize Law for Construction
Fennemore Craig is set to acquire Denver boutique Galvanize Law as part of a strategic push to grow its construction and infrastructure offering across the Western US. The firms will officially combine on October 1, further anchoring Fennemore’s regional footprint.
McLaughlin & Stern grows with T&E boutique pickup
Krass, Snow & Schmutter merges into McLaughlin & Stern, adding four senior lawyers to its T&E bench. Founders Stephen Krass and Lee Snow join as partners, with two others as counsel. The move marks another step in New York’s ongoing boutique consolidation trend.
Office Openings & Closing:
Eversheds Sutherland opens in Silicon Valley
The firm has boosted its West Coast capabilities, opening a new office in California and welcoming a senior Baker McKenzie lawyer as head of its complex tech disputes practice.
Simmons marks second Middle East launch in two months with Abu Dhabi move
Simmons & Simmons to open in Abu Dhabi Global Market, its second Middle East launch in two months. The move responds to rising client demand in AMIF and TMT sectors across the region.
Orrick Launches Miami Office With 3 Akerman Partners
Orrick enters Miami with trio of partner hires from Akerman, marking its first Florida office.
The new outpost will be led by Ken Wiggins, former head of Akerman’s PE and M&A team.
Bird & Bird moves to new Dublin HQ
Bird & Bird has relocated to new Irish HQ at 124 St Stephen’s Green, in central Dublin. Launched in 2022, the Dublin office serves as a strategic EU hub for global clients.
Indonesia’s ARMA Law has entered a strategic partnership with China’s Fidelity Law Firm
The tie-up aims to support growing Chinese investment in Indonesia amid record $148bn trade volumes. It marks a step toward deeper cross-border legal integration across the region.
Financials:
Clifford Chance flags US push as global revenue climbs 9% to £2.4bn
Clifford Chance reports £2.4bn revenue, up 9% on strong US and Middle East growth. US revenue rose 50% over two years, while PEP edged up to £2.11m. Partnership profit increased 11% to £944m.
Linklaters points to US growth as turnover climbs 11% to exceed £2.3bn
Linklaters posts record results with revenue up 11% to £2.32bn and pre-tax profit topping £1bn. PEP jumped 15% to £2.2m, driven by strong global performance and 57% US profit growth.
Macfarlanes’ PEP tops £3m as new senior partner is unveiled
Macfarlanes reports record PEP of over £3m as it names next senior partner. Tax head Damien Crossley will succeed Sebastian Prichard Jones in March 2026. The announcement caps another standout year for the firm.
Charles Russell Speechlys grows revenue 11% as PEP exceeds £680k
Charles Russell Speechlys posts £242.3m revenue, up 11% amid continued private capital expansion. PEP rose above £680k, though growth slowed slightly from last year’s 13% jump.
DAC Beachcroft unveils leadership change alongside 6.4% increase in revenue to £348m
DAC Beachcroft appoints Helen Faulkner as managing partner, succeeding David Pollitt after two terms. The firm reports 6.4% revenue growth to £348.1m and a 7.1% rise in gross profit to £76m. PEP increased in line, reaching £750,000 for the year ended 30 April.
Legacy HSF grew revenue by 4% to £1.36bn in final pre-merger year
Herbert Smith Freehills posts 4% revenue growth to a record £1.36bn ahead of merger with Kramer Levin. Profit hits a new high of £486.9m, with PEP rising 8.6% to £1.4m for the year ended 30 April.
Brodies reports 15th consecutive year of revenue growth as PEP hits £885k
Brodies marks 15th straight year of revenue growth, with turnover rising 11% to £126.7m. Operating profit surpassed £50m, while PEP increased 4.6% to £885k after flatlining last year.
HSF revenue and PEP hit new heights in last results before US merger
Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer posts final legacy HSF results with revenue up 4% to £1.36bn. Partner profits also reached record highs ahead of the firm’s June 1 merger with Kramer.
Technology & Innovation:
EU publishes general-purpose AI code of practice
Developed through a multi-stakeholder process, it covers transparency, copyright, and safety. Formal guidelines on general-purpose AI models are set to follow later this month.
US Courts Split on Fair Use in AI Training Cases
Recent rulings in Anthropic and Meta cases show differing judicial views on copyright and market harm in AI model training. While both upheld fair use for training on copyrighted books, judges diverged on piracy issues and how to assess market dilution. Experts say future plaintiffs may need stronger evidence of market harm to succeed.
Law Firms Integrate Generative AI into Summer Associate Programs
Honigman wraps up a “Shark Tank”-style AI workflow contest, engaging 11 summer associates across six teams. The competition capped an AI training program designed to give future lawyers hands-on experience with cutting-edge tools. Firms are increasingly using such initiatives to prepare new talent for the AI-driven future of legal practice.
Is AI the Biggest Threat to Big Law?
Microsoft’s recent layoffs included lawyers, raising questions about AI’s impact on legal roles even at major firms. Though legal teams have traditionally been seen as indispensable, AI-driven efficiencies may be reshaping that landscape. The legal industry now faces uncertainty over how technology will redefine the value and security of in-house counsel.
‘A New and Emerging Threat’: Covington on AI-Driven Cybersecurity Risks
Since 2020, insider and digital risks have surged with remote work, says Covington’s Fein and McMurrough. The rise of AI and advanced technologies is intensifying these cybersecurity challenges. Companies must proactively brace for evolving threats in this increasingly complex landscape.
The Masters Conference Day 1: Tackling Deepfakes and E-Discovery’s Next Phase
Experts explored how to detect deepfakes and AI-manipulated media in legal investigations. Discussions focused on evolving e-discovery tools and the future shape of legal teams. Advanced tech promises to transform how data is analysed and verified in litigation.
The Masters Conference Day 2: Gen AI’s Impact on Law Firm Costs and Operations
Lawyers and legal ops leaders explored how analytics reveal organizational value amid AI adoption. Discussions focused on early strategies for integrating generative AI into legal workflows. The session highlighted AI’s potential to reshape costs and efficiency in law firms.
Litera Unveils Lito, AI Agent for Legal Workflows
Litera launches Lito, an AI agent within its Litera One platform, to streamline drafting, review, and analytics tasks. Tested with select customers, Lito will be available for early access in August and general release October 1. It handles multi-step workflows, from document analysis and comparisons to natural language searches and drafting support.
Law Firms Boost Insurance Amid Rising AI Risks
Nearly half of legal professionals surveyed plan to expand coverage as AI use grows. Concerns shift from inflation to reputational and emerging tech-related risks. Firms are proactively managing risk in an increasingly tech-driven legal landscape.
Diversity & Inclusion:
The Americans With Disabilities Act at 35: A Promise in Peril
Marking 35 years since its enactment, the ADA set a historic standard for disability rights as civil rights. The law aimed to ensure full inclusion in schools, workplaces, and public life. Despite progress, ongoing challenges threaten to undermine this foundational promise.
Brinkley Morgan marks 50 years with a strong commitment to diversity and community impact.
The 20-attorney firm handles family, business, real estate, and trusts matters, with a history of LGBTQ+ rights litigation.Its Brinkley Cares initiative actively supports nonprofits across Broward and Palm Beach Counties.
Mastercard shareholders this week resoundingly voted down a pro-DEI proposal and an anti-DEI proposal, but the former mustered 30 times the support of the latter.
Market Commentary:
A&O Shearman delays start dates for some US first-years
A&O Shearman has pushed back the start dates for a group of its incoming first-year associates in the US to January. The move affects part of the 2025 first-year class – equivalent to NQs in the UK – who are also being offered a salary advance. First-years have historically had two start dates across the year and, in line with market norms, the firm has always offered incoming associates the option of a salary advance, according to a person familiar with the matter.
Litigation Strategy in a Slower Economy: What In-House Counsel Should Rethink Now.
Felicello Law managing partner Rosanne Felicello discusses potential scrutiny of legal spend during economic uncertainty. She notes, “depending on the nature of the dispute, it may be financially prudent to aggressively pursue certain claims that may have greater relative value in financially uncertain times.” She adds, “The challenge is determining how and when to allocate resources for litigation to maximize the value achieved for your company.”
Biglaw Surrender Firms Hoping Trump Just Forgets About Them
Three months after the deals were made, firms are staying quiet about how they plan to fulfill their pro bono commitments to President Donald Trump and his administration. None of the nine firms that made deals responded to questions from The American Lawyer about pro bono work they’ve done that counts toward their financial commitments.
Attention on mental health seems more focused on crisis intervention: Jackson Allen
For Jackson Allen, the profession’s biggest challenges are caused by external pressures in the areas of tech and geopolitics. Agility and flexibility are necessary to address these challenges in the present with an eye on the future, he says.
GCs Take the Lead in Asia’s Fintech Future
Legal chiefs at digital finance firms are redefining their roles as strategic architects, not just risk managers. From crypto convergence to cross-border compliance, they’re turning regulatory complexity into competitive edge. Operating with a startup mindset, today’s GC is a key driver of innovation in Asia’s financial ecosystem.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Simpson Thacher Adds Securitization and Structured Products Partner from Cadwalader in London
Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP announced today that Partner Richard Hanson has joined its London office. Hanson will focus on securitization and structured products, strengthening the firm’s presence in these markets.
Prominent Private Equity Partner to Join Latham from White & Case in London
Latham & Watkins has added partner Ross Allardice to its London office, marking another step in the continued expansion of its private equity practice. A highly regarded practitioner, Allardice brings extensive experience advising on complex cross-border transactions.
Cadwalader boosts London leveraged finance team with Paul Hastings partner hire
Cadwalader Wickersham & Taft has hired Edward Holmes as a leveraged finance partner in London from Paul Hastings. His arrival strengthens the firm’s cross-border finance capabilities.
Cooley recruits Ashurst tech M&A co-head in London
Cooley has strengthened its London M&A practice with the addition of Jonathan Cohen, formerly co-head of tech M&A at Ashurst. Cohen brings significant experience advising tech companies and investors on UK and cross-border deals.
Beauchamps appoints two corporate, commercial and M&A partners in Ireland
Beauchamps has appointed Oisín McLoughlin and David McMunn as partners in the firm’s corporate, commercial and M&A group.
DWF appoints Liam Harnett as Dublin global risks partner
Mr Harnett joins DWF with extensive experience in complex commercial disputes, having previously practised at Clyde & Co, Arthur Cox and A&L Goodbody.
The Americas
Garrigues brings Andrés Crump on board to head the Corporate M&A area in Colombia
Garrigues has announced the appointment of Andrés Crump as a partner in its Corporate M&A practice in Bogotá. With over 20 years of experience, Crump is known for advising on major transactions across Latin America, particularly in the infrastructure and energy sectors.
Proskauer Private Client Head Moves to McDermott
After nearly two decades at Proskauer Rose, David Pratt, former chair of their private client practice, has joined McDermott, Will & Emery to lead the opening of their Boca Raton office. Pratt highlighted McDermott’s solid reputation and the dynamic growth in South Florida as major factors influencing his decision.
Former Acting US Attorney Vikas Khanna Joins Sills Cummis as White-Collar Chair
Vikas Khanna, former Acting U.S. Attorney for New Jersey, has joined Sills Cummis & Gross as chair of the firm’s white-collar defence practice.
Orrick Launches Miami Office With 3 Akerman Partners
Orrick has launched its first Florida office in Miami with the hire of three partners from Akerman. The new office will be led by Ken Wiggins, former head of Akerman’s private equity and M&A practice.
CSG Law Welcomes Back Jenny Chung Quraishi
CSG Law has welcomed Jenny Chung Quraishi back to the firm as a Member of its Litigation Group. She rejoins after serving as an Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey, handling cases involving healthcare fraud, opioids, narcotics, and violent crime.
McNees Wallace & Nurick has added Kayla Bushey to its Radnor office, strengthening its privacy and cybersecurity practice. She joins from the IAPP, where she was a Westin Research Fellow focused on global data privacy.
Sheppard Mullin Grows Energy Team with Los Angeles, Houston Partners Justin Boose and Phil Lau
Sheppard Mullin has added partners Justin Boose and Phil Lau to its Energy, Infrastructure, and Project Finance team. Boose joins from Holland & Knight, where he co-led Renewable Energy. Lau was previously an Energy and Corporate & Securities partner at Mayer Brown.
Husch Blackwell has added healthcare partners Robert Threlkeld and Elliott Coward, plus associate Baylee Culverhouse, to its Atlanta virtual office, The Link. They join from Morris, Manning & Martin. This move highlights the firm’s strategic growth in the Southeast.
Willkie Expands Dallas Platform with Addition of Three Leading Private Equity Transactional Partners
Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP has appointed Jesse Betts, Jessica Hammons, and Nathan Meredith as partners in its Corporate & Financial Services Department. The three private equity transactional lawyers will be based in the firm’s Dallas office.
Paul Hastings Continues Momentum of Premier M&A Platform With Addition of New York Partner
Paul Hastings LLP has expanded its global M&A platform with the addition of partner Kristiina Leskinen in New York. Joining from Paul Weiss, she advises on complex M&A transactions for public and private companies and private equity firms.
Seward & Kissel Adds Venture Capital Partner Jacob Comer to Investment Management Group
Seward & Kissel LLP has appointed Jacob Comer as partner in its Investment Management practice, specializing in venture capital formation and complex fund transactions. He brings experience as both a legal and investment executive.
EMEA
McDermott Hires Merck’s Head of Legal for Frankfurt Office
McDermott Will & Emery is bolstering its Healthcare & Life Sciences practice in Frankfurt with the addition of experienced in-house counsel Johannes Eckhardt (42), who joins as a partner from Merck in September.
Freshfields Continues Growth in Paris with Appointment of Corporate and M&A Partner
Freshfields has appointed Benoit Marpeau as a partner in its Corporate and M&A team in Paris. He brings significant experience advising listed and private companies on mergers, carve-outs, and reorganisations, strengthening the firm’s French offering.
Linklaters further strengthens leveraged finance and banking offering with double hire in Paris
Linklaters has appointed Pierre-Arnoux Mayoly and Shirin Deyhim as partners in its Paris Leveraged Finance practice, enhancing the firm’s capabilities in funds finance, private credit, and mid-cap leveraged transactions.
HEUKING expands Life Sciences practice with three Equity Partners to join in Munich
Taylor Wessing’s Dr. Manja Epping, Dr. Stefanie Greifeneder, and Dr. Sonja Ackermann will join the firm by early 2026 at the latest, accompanied by a team of associates.
O’Melveny Hires Senior Lawyer from Europe’s Largest Consumer Org in Brussels
O’Melveny has announced the addition of Vanessa Turner as a partner in its Antitrust & Competition Practice Group in Brussels. A leading international antitrust lawyer, Turner brings extensive experience to the firm’s growing European practice.
Ryan Whelan Joins Stephenson Harwood’s Middle East Dispute Resolution team as Partner
Stephenson Harwood LLP has strengthened its Middle East Dispute Resolution team with the appointment of Ryan Whelan as partner in Dubai. Whelan focuses primarily on disputes in the infrastructure and energy sectors.
APAC
Clifford Chance launches dedicated transactional Construction team in Australia
Clifford Chance has strengthened its International Construction Group by launching a dedicated transactional construction team in Australia, headed by newly appointed Counsel Katie Joukadjian.
Freshfields continues strategic growth with appointment of leading IP and TMT partner in Singapore
Freshfields has appointed Harry Evans as a partner in its global transactions practice in Singapore. Joining from Herbert Smith Freehills, where he co-led the Asia IP/Commercial team, Evans brings over 15 years’ experience advising on complex tech, IP, and commercial matters.
JSM makes first lateral partner hire following split from Mayer Brown
Hong Kong firm JSM has appointed Joe Kamho Choy as partner and co-head of its employment and benefits team—its first external partner hire since splitting from Mayer Brown in 2024. Choy joins from Eversheds Sutherland and brings over 10 years’ experience in employment, pensions, and M&A-related matters. He previously worked at Mayer Brown JSM and is GBA-qualified.
Jones Day snags disputes heavyweight from Mayer Brown in Singapore
Jones Day has appointed Kay-Jannes Wegner as a partner in its Singapore office, boosting its international arbitration practice. Wegner joins from Mayer Brown with over 25 years of experience handling high-value disputes across sectors like construction, energy, and telecoms. Previously with Kim & Chang and Clifford Chance, Wegner brings dual civil and common law expertise and has led multijurisdictional teams in major arbitrations. His hire reflects Jones Day’s continued expansion in Singapore’s growing dispute resolution market.
In-House
AXA’s UK GC Walks to Rival, ICO Appoints Next Legal Head
RSA, an Intact company, has announced the appointment of Emily Coupland as General Counsel for the UK and Europe, subject to regulatory approval. Joining later this year, she will lead the legal and compliance functions across the region and sit on the operating committee.
Synopsys Brings On Ansys GC As Tech Merger Takes Effect
Following the completion of its acquisition of Ansys, Synopsys has appointed Ansys General Counsel Janet Lee to serve as its new chief legal officer and corporate secretary.
Provable Announces Former CoinList Executive as General Counsel
Provable has named Damien G. Scott as General Counsel. He brings extensive crypto legal experience, having advised startups and served as General Counsel and COO at CoinList Ventures.
Promotions & Appointments:
Dentons names new national pro bono head, three partners, 15 senior lawyers
The Promotions are as follows:
Partners
Kurt Tiam – Corporate, Melbourne
Ryan Lennon – Recovery & Restructuring, Perth
Tamara Strack – Recovery & Restructuring, Perth
Firm promotion: Managing partner appointment at Arc Pensions Law
Anna Copestake, London – Copestake takes over as managing partner from Kate Payne, who returns to a full-time client-facing role. A pensions expert, Copestake joined Arc in 2016 and played a key role in building the firm’s defined contribution and investment practice. Senior partner Anna Rogers praised her leadership potential and deep understanding of the firm’s direction and goals.
The Promotions are as follows:#
Legal Directors
Andrina McDowall – Commercial Property, St Andrews
Kirsty Lynch – Commercial Property, Edinburgh
Megan Maclean – Private Client, Edinburgh
Jane McNicol – Dispute Resolution & Claims, Perth
NZ Law – DLA Piper deepens specialist capability with senior promotions and strategic hires
DLA Piper has announced three senior promotions alongside two strategic lateral hires, reinforcing the firm’s capabilities in high-demand practice areas across New Zealand. The appointments reflect growing client demand in financial services, employment, infrastructure, renewable energy, regulatory reform, and Māori legal matters.
Nick Byrnes – Real Estate, Construction & Infrastructure, Special Counsel, Auckland
Mike Campbell – Resource Management & Local Government, Senior Associate, Wellington
Tyson Hullena – Dispute Resolution & Māori Law, Senior Associate, Wellington
Mathys & Squire—four promotions
Harry Rowe – Trade Marks, Partner, London
Dylan Morgan – Patents & IP Strategy, Partner, London
Mergers & Alliances:
JCP Solicitors to merge with Port Talbot law firm Howe & Spender this August
Port Talbot firm Howe & Spender will merge with JCP Solicitors on 11 August 2025, continuing operations locally while gaining access to JCP’s wider South Wales network. The move brings £11M in investment to the town, creates new legal roles, and supports local regeneration. Ian Spender will become a Director at JCP, ensuring the firm’s long-standing legacy continues.
Office Openings & Closing:
A&O Shearman New York partners exit, launch litigation boutique
Former A&O Shearman partners David Esseks and Gene Ingoglia have launched Esseks Ingoglia, a New York boutique focused on trials, investigations, and white-collar defence. Both are ex-SDNY prosecutors with extensive experience in high-profile financial crime cases. Their departure adds to the growing list of partner exits following the A&O Shearman merger.
SRA Shuts Down Law Firm Run by Labour Councillor
The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has closed SZ Solicitors, a Hounslow-based immigration law firm, and suspended the practising certificates of its managers, Raghwinder Singh Siddhu and Mohammad Saeed Zafar. Siddhu is a Labour councillor and former Mayor of Hounslow. The SRA cited suspected dishonesty and breaches of conduct and accounts rules. The firm, founded in 2008, had previously merged with QSS Solicitors. Zafar has called the intervention “unjustified”, claiming misuse of power.
European law firm announces office move to Paradise Birmingham development
Fieldfisher will relocate its Birmingham office to Two Chamberlain Square in late 2025, aiming to expand its UK and European presence. The move supports plans to double staff and deepen ties with the regional business community.
This Am Law 100 Firm Just Opened Its 86th Office
Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani has opened a new office in Jacksonville, Florida, expanding its presence to 86 locations. Heather M. Gwinn, the office managing partner, is focused on fostering a supportive environment for the community and advancing women in law.
Stevens & Lee Launches in Pittsburgh, Continuing Corporate Hiring Spree
The firm is opening its second new office this year with the addition of shareholder Kevin Acklin. He joins from the Pittsburgh Penguins, where he served nearly seven years as general counsel and president of business operations.
Financials:
Dentons passes £300m revenue milestone
Dentons reported £306m in revenue for its UK, Ireland, and Middle East region in FY 2024/25—a 9% increase. CEO Paul Jarvis credited strategic growth and strong client relationships. The Milton Keynes office remains a key hub, with recent partner promotions and high-profile international work. The firm also expanded in Saudi Arabia and Dublin, and made 19 lateral hires and 22 partner promotions across the region.
Taylor Wessing Reports 10% Rise in Global Revenue to €619M
Taylor Wessing’s global revenue rose 10.1% to €619M in 2024/25, while UK revenue climbed 15% to £283.7M, with PEP reaching £1.1M. The firm’s growth was driven by strategic focus on complex legal work, innovation, and international expansion.
DAC Beachcroft unveils strong set of financial results for 2024/25 and upcoming leadership changes
DAC Beachcroft reported a 6.4% rise in revenue to £348.1M for FY 2024/25, with profit before tax up 7.1% to £76M and profit per member surpassing £750K for the first time. Net debt fell by 35% to £17M, reflecting the firm’s strong financial health.
Decade of first listed law firm and now 10 years of revenue growth
Gateley, the UK’s first listed law firm, has tripled its revenue since 2015 to nearly £180m in 2025, with 4.1% growth. Underlying profits also rose slightly, though headline profit before tax fell. The firm’s diverse model includes legal and non-legal services, with 29% of revenue from acquisitions.
Its largest division is property, and business services and corporate also grew. Gateley aims to raise profit margins and secured an £80m credit facility for further growth. Staff numbers have more than doubled since 2015, with strong employee share ownership. Despite solid results, shares have declined recently but remain above the 2015 listing price.
Technology & Innovation:
AI is on the march but many law firms still don’t have a strategy
UK law firms are leading globally in adopting AI, but just 24% have a defined strategy, according to Thomson Reuters. Those with clear plans are almost twice as likely to see financial gains from AI.
Despite improved efficiency and productivity, client confidence remains low, with only 10% fully trusting firms to use AI responsibly. Shoosmiths made headlines by tying bonuses to AI adoption. Concerns over pricing transparency and future job roles continue to shape the debate.
New research partnership to examine AI benefits to conveyancing process
Ulster University’s Centre for Legal Technology has partnered with legal tech startup Lawri AI to explore how AI and automation can enhance property transactions. The collaboration will focus on legal data modelling, ethical AI use, and user experience, while also involving students and legal professionals. The project aims to combine practical legal insight with academic research to drive innovation in residential conveyancing.
AI-Driven Legal Tech: The Future of Law Firms and Your Investment Portfolio
Legal firms worldwide are rapidly adopting AI tools like Thomson Reuters’ CoCounsel and startup Harvey AI to boost efficiency, reduce errors, and improve cybersecurity. CoCounsel integrates smoothly with existing systems and focuses on data security, saving time and cutting costs. Harvey AI, valued at $5B, excels in automating complex legal tasks with high accuracy and compliance. With AI adoption reaching 79% by 2025, cybersecurity investments are also rising, fueling legal tech growth. Investors see strong potential in both AI and cybersecurity firms. The legal sector is at a turning point: firms using AI will gain major productivity and competitive edges, while those that don’t risk falling behind amid stricter regulations and client demands.
In-house lawyers warn they’ll cut legal spend due to AI and ‘pricey’ firms
In the 2025 RollOnFriday In-House Lawyer Survey, many in-house legal teams reported plans to grow—often at the expense of external law firms. Nearly half cited cost concerns and the increasing usefulness of AI as reasons for shifting work internally. General counsel noted that combining in-house talent with AI is more cost-effective and often delivers better, more commercially relevant outcomes. Some said external firms charge excessively, struggle with business understanding, or are being priced out due to high junior salaries. However, while many favour bringing more legal work in-house, several respondents still value external lawyers for niche expertise, complex litigation, or large-scale matters. For some, expanding in-house teams complements—not replaces—external legal support, especially as legal workloads grow.
Diversity & Inclusion:
2 Firms To Lead Target Shareholder Suit Over DEI Initiatives
On July 17, 2025, Rigrodsky Law PA and Levi & Korsinsky LLP were appointed to lead a consolidated shareholder derivative lawsuit against Target Corp. The case alleges that the company’s executives and board harmed shareholders by approving diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts and marketing LGBTQ-themed products.
‘Transformative support’: City lawyers mark social mobility success
City Solicitors Horizons (CSH) celebrated 10 years of supporting aspiring lawyers from low-income backgrounds. Launched in 2015, the programme offers mentoring, training, and guaranteed work experience to help students enter top City law firms. Over 350 have completed the scheme, with half securing training contracts. Now run by SEO London, CSH continues to expand its reach and impact.
Market Commentary:
Inside the Minds Working at US Midsize Law Firms: 2025 Priorities Revealed
Midsize U.S. law firms are adapting in 2025 to rising costs, client demands, and a shifting talent market, according to Actionstep’s latest report. Based on feedback from 264 professionals, key priorities include improving client satisfaction, controlling costs, expanding services, attracting talent, and investing in technology.
Cost control has become a strategic focus, rising from 33% to 41% in importance year over year. Improving client experience is the top revenue driver, with more firms formalizing service standards. Technology is essential, but many firms find their current tools inefficient—most use 6+ platforms per matter, and nearly half say a single system would boost productivity.
AI and automation are gaining traction, especially in legal research, drafting, and workflow. Midsize firms value their flexibility and are positioning themselves as strong competitors by modernizing operations and focusing on client-centered growth.
Firms, not solicitors, to feel impact of 11% rise in cost of practising
From November 2025, the cost of practising as a solicitor will rise by 11%, mostly affecting law firms. The Law Society plans to collect £148.4m—£16.6m more than last year—with £86.5m going to the SRA.
Despite the increase, individual solicitors will see little change. The practising certificate fee will rise from £307 to £326, but a £20 cut to the SRA Compensation Fund reduces the net cost by £1.
Firms will cover 60% of the total, with contributions rising 12%, though increases will vary by turnover. The firm compensation fund payment will drop from £2,220 to £1,950.
The SRA cites rising misconduct reports and expanding bulk litigation cases—over 80 investigations involving 74 firms—as reasons for the higher budget. A roundtable with the Ministry of Justice is planned to address risks in high-volume claims.
New rules on non-financial misconduct: what firms need to know
The FCA is introducing new rules from September 2026 to tackle non-financial misconduct (e.g. bullying, harassment) in financial services. The rules expand the Code of Conduct (COCON) to cover serious misconduct toward colleagues, even if not directly tied to financial activities. Misconduct in private life may still affect fitness and propriety assessments.
The FCA dropped earlier diversity proposals but is focusing on culture and behaviour. Firms must review policies and processes to prepare. Consultation closes 10 September 2025.
Why are BigLaw firms acquiring boutiques?
Australia’s legal market has seen a rise in national firms acquiring smaller players, driven by intense competition and changing client demands. In a fragmented and evolving landscape shaped by economic and geopolitical shifts, major firms are adapting to maintain their position. An example includes Henry Davis York’s merger with Norton Rose Fulbright, reflecting broader trends in consolidation and strategic growth.
Why law firm culture matters more than firm strategy
Law firm culture—shared values and daily practices—is often more important than strategy alone. For strategies to succeed, culture must align with a firm’s mission and leadership. In today’s changing legal landscape, firms need strong cultures to support growth and innovation. Misaligned culture causes friction and hinders progress. A healthy culture boosts lawyer engagement, retention, and productivity, making it essential for long-term success.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Signature launches white collar crime and investigations practice with new partner team hire
Signature Litigation announced the appointments of Mark Beardsworth and Duncan Grieve who join as partners from Goodwin Proctor and Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft, to spearhead the launch and growth of its global white collar crime practice.
Forsters welcomes commercial real estate partner
Forsters has appointed Noel Ainsworth as partner in its commercial real estate team. Ainsworth joins from Shoosmiths in London.
Goodwin Strengthens its European Private Equity Platform with Debt Finance Partner Tom Roberts
Debt finance expert Tom Roberts is joining the firm’s Private Equity practice as a partner in London. Roberts joins from Kirkland & Ellis.
The Americas
Jacqueline Romero has joined BakerHostetler’s Philadelphia office as a Partner in the firm’s Litigation Practice Group. She previously served as a United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.
Katten Taps Michael Didiuk as Investment Management Partner
Michael Didiuk has joined Katten Muchin Rosenman as a partner in its financial markets and funds department in New York. He joins from Schulte Roth + Zabel.
Vivien Krieger Joins Akerman LLP to Bolster New York Land Use and Zoning Practice
Akerman LLP has announced the addition of Vivien Krieger as a partner in its New York real estate practice, focusing on land use and zoning matters. Prior to joining Akerman, Krieger co-chaired the Zoning, Land Use & Development Practice at Cozen O’Connor.
Paul Hastings Further Strengthens Premier ECVC Practice in Northern California
Hastings LLP has announced the addition of partner James Huie in San Francisco. He from Wilson Sonsini.
Gross McGinley, LLP Strengthens Its Stroudsburg Team with Key Addition: George W. Westervelt, Jr.
Gross McGinley LLP has announced that George W. Westervelt, Jr., highly respected Monroe County attorney, has joined the firm. He will join current partner Victoria A. Strunk at the firm’s Stroudsburg office.
Stradley Ronon Welcomes Back Veteran Insurance Partner From Duane Morris
Regulatory insurance partner Steven Davis has joined Stradley Ronon in Philadelphia. He joins from being the team lead of the insurance and reinsurance industry group at Duane Morris.
Brownstein Adds Impressive Group of Five Partners
Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck has announced that five partners from Crowell & Moring have joined the firm. Jim Flood and Aaron Cummings join as shareholders and are based out of the firm’s Washington, D.C., office. Evan Chuck joins as a shareholder and will split his time between the firm’s Los Angeles and Washington, D.C., offices. Anne Elise Herold Li and Paul Keller join as shareholders and will be based out of New York.
Weil Accelerates Entertainment, Sports and Media Expansion with Arrival of David Markman in L.A.
Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP announced that prominent entertainment, sports and media lawyer David Markman has joined the Firm as a partner in its Technology & IP Transactions practice, based in the Los Angeles office.
Baker McKenzie hires two former US Department of Justice lawyers in DC
Rod Rosenstein, who joins from King & Spalding, will lead the firm’s national security practice, while former assistant director and senior trial attorney Tim Finley joins the firm as a partner in its antitrust practice.
Seyfarth Extends Institutional Investors Offerings with Addition of Matthew Cohen in Atlanta
Seyfarth Shaw LLP has added Matthew Cohen as a partner in the Corporate department. Cohen, who joins Seyfarth from DLA Piper, will be based in the Atlanta office.
Brian M. Satz and Team from New Jersey-based Satz Law Group Join Stevens & Lee
Stevens & Lee announced today that Brian M. Satz has joined the firm as a Shareholder in the Bergen County, NJ, office. He is joined by two associates, Ariel Kirshenbaum and Nathania E. Lim from Satz Law Group.
EMEA
Linklaters hires two Partners in Paris
François Kopf has joined Linklaters as a partner in Paris and as Global Chair of Restructuring and Insolvency. Additionally, Mathieu Della Vittoria has joined as a partner in the Restructuring and Insolvency practice. They both join from Darrois Villey Mailot Brochier.
Simmons strengthens its Real Estate practice in Paris
Simmons Paris is expanding its Real Estate department and launching its Environmental department with the arrival partners, Michaël Lévy and Laure Nguyen. Both join from Hogan Lovells.
Milbank hires private equity M&A rising star in Germany
Milbank has hired an up-and-coming M&A and private equity partner Jan Haller from German law firm Hengeler Mueller.
Litigation partner moves back to Bird & Bird
Bird & Bird has strengthened its patent practice in Hamburg with the return of Anna Wolters – Hohne, an experienced litigation partner, who joins from A&O Shearman.
Orrick Adds European Competition Advisor in Paris
Chimène Faurant joins Orrick’s Antitrust & Competition practice in Paris as a partner.
She joins from De Pardieu Brocas Maffei.
APAC
CMS boosts APAC offering with Sydney hire
CMS has hired former Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner (BCLP) partner Ilan Freiman as a partner in its energy, projects and construction (EPC) practice. He will be based in its Sydney arm while also maintaining a “substantial presence” in Hong Kong.
Ex-Kirkland, Sidley partners join Alvarez & Marsal-linked firm
Broadfield has hired disputes resolution and restructuring Partners from Sidley Austin and Kirkland & Ellis. Gordon Davidson joins from Sidley Austin and Fergus Saurin joins from Kirkland & Ellis.
In-House
Derek Smith, who previously served as General Counsel at Sonar, has been hired by Ancestry as Chief Legal Officer in Utah.
CUBE has hired a new General Counsel
Lisa ING joins CUBE as GC, having previously served at Audley Travel as General Counsel.
Diversity Lab Welcomes New CEO Angela Kelley July 2025
Diversity Lab has announced Angela Kelley as its new Chief Executive Officer.
Promotions & Appointments:
McGuireWoods Names New Office Managing Partners in Four Cities
McGuireWoods has appointed new office managing partners in Atlanta, Houston, Baltimore, and San Francisco effective July 1, 2025. Ryan Buchanan will succeed Chris Greene as managing partner of the Atlanta office. Tyler VanHoutan will take over from Yasser Madriz as managing partner of the Houston office. Melissa Martinez will become managing partner of the Baltimore office, succeeding Elena Marcuss. Todd Dressel will serve as managing partner of the San Francisco office, taking over from Dave Powell.
K&L Gates Announces German Leadership Transition
Global law firm K&L Gates has announced a leadership change in Germany: Dr. Martina Ortner has joined the firm’s global Management Committee and, together with Dr. Thilo Winkeler, assumes the role of Co-Managing Partner of the firm’s German offices in Berlin, Frankfurt, and Munich.
Withers promotes 16 partners in global round as US dominates
The Promoted are:
Luca Denora and Jordan Garman, New York; Wonchi Ju and Michael Steffany, New Haven; Jessica Kaplan, San Francisco; Leslie Evans, San Diego; Kevin Jackson, Craig Weinstein, Susanna Kim and Erika Scheideman; Los Angeles.
Kohei Kobayashi and Chantal Matin-Lewis, Japan; Gary Leung and Alex Ye, Hong Kong
Joshua Swift and Emma Cooper-Hedges in London.
Osbornes Law appoints three partners
London law firm Osbornes Law has promoted Jonathan Jonas, Patricia McCaffrey and Amber Krishnan-Bird to partner.
Jude Copeland to chair NI Law Society group on data protection and AI
Jude Copeland, a lawyer at Cleaver Fulton Rankin, will play a key role in assisting Northern Ireland solicitors navigate the evolving landscape of cybersecurity and data protection, with a special focus on AI. His work will aim to provide guidance as legal professionals adapt to these increasingly complex areas.
Mergers & Alliances:
PPO Indacochea: Two Leading Firms Unite to Redefine the Legal Standard in Bolivia
PPO Abogados and Indacochea & Asociados, historic leaders in Bolivian business law, have joined forces to form PPO Indacochea—the first major full-service law firm in the country.
PPO Indacochea positions itself as the strategic legal partner for companies committed to transforming Bolivia through investment, innovation, and sustainable, responsible development.
Moray & Agnew absorbs Greenwoods Law in Cairns
Moray & Agnew in Queensland has announced its acquisition of commercial law firm Greenwoods Law in Cairns, effective 1 July 2025.
Office Openings & Closing:
Powell Gilbert launches in Düsseldorf to grow its UPC practice
Specialist IP firm Powell Gilbert is set to launch a new office in Düsseldorf, to be headed by prominent German patent litigator and former Vossius partner Andreas Kramer. He will be joined by two fellow Vossius alumni: Hannes Obex, who comes on board as of counsel, and associate Andreas Ditler.
Macfarlanes Takes on Additional Office Space on Fetter Lane
Macfarlanes has signed a lease for an extra 11,000 square feet of office space located just around the corner from its headquarters at 20 Cursitor Street, near Chancery Lane in London.
Financials:
Bird & Bird reports 6% revenue increase against flat PEP
Bird & Bird achieved a 6% revenue increase to €672.6m for the year ending 30 April 2025, marking its 33rd consecutive year of growth. However, this was a slowdown from the 10% growth seen in FY24. Net profit rose 3%, while profit per equity partner (PEP) declined slightly by 0.7% to €831k, after an 8% increase the previous year. These results reflect a solid start to the firm’s five-year strategy to reach €1bn in revenue by 2029.
HFW revenue climbs 8% to £270m against 3% dip in PEP
HFW posted record results in the third year of its sector-focused strategy, with revenue rising 8% to £270.8m for the year ending 31 March 2025, and total profit increasing by 2% to £77.2m. Despite this growth, profit per equity partner (PEP) declined from £855k in FY24 to £828k. However, revenue per lawyer (RPL) saw a strong 12% increase, reaching £465k.
Since the launch of its current strategy at the start of FY23, HFW’s revenue has grown by 36%, profit by 42%, and PEP by 24%, while RPL is up 12%.
Technology & Innovation:
A&O Shearman and Harvey to roll out agentic AI agents targeting complex legal workflows
A&O Shearman and Harvey are launching AI agents for complex legal tasks, integrating A&O Shearman’s expertise into systems for antitrust, cybersecurity, fund formation, and loan review. These agents perform multi-step reasoning, conducting research and delivering actionable, transparent legal outputs. Available to corporations, law firms, and financial services on a subscription or usage basis, A&O Shearman will share in the software revenue.
‘Blistering’ EU report calls for copyright reform to combat large-scale AI data training
A new study commissioned by the European Parliament has warned that EU copyright law is ill-equipped to deal with AI models that rely on large-scale data training and called for targeted reforms to strengthen legal protections for copyright holders. The report, published by the European Parliament’s Committee on Legal Affairs (JURI), argues that generative AI systems operate at a “scale and opacity” that existing copyright frameworks were “never designed to address”.
AI boom fuelling surge in intangible asset investment, says WIPO
A new report from the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) reveals a sharp increase in investment in intangible assets, driven primarily by funding for software and databases amid the ongoing AI boom.
Diversity & Inclusion:
Navigating DEI Compliance: How Employers Can Take Action
In a shifting legal and cultural landscape, employers must align their DEI efforts with compliance standards while fostering inclusive workplaces. This article outlines practical steps—like policy reviews and targeted training—to help organisations navigate DEI responsibly and effectively.
Under pressure, U.S. companies back off DEI pay metrics
Compensation consulting firm Farient Advisors found the share of S&P 500 companies who said they used diversity, equity and inclusion measures in their executive compensation plans fell to 22%, according to proxy statements filed this year. The figure was 52% last year and hit a peak of 57% in 2023.Brian Bueno, Farient’s Sustainability Practice Leader, said the decline reflected the pressure companies have faced from conservative activists who say the practices encourage discrimination. He expects more companies will follow as executives worry about their exposure to government pressure if they are seen as embracing diversity measures.
Market Commentary:
Eversheds Among Top Firms Globally for M&A Deals in First Half of 2025
According to the latest report by the London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG), the firm ranked ninth globally for the number of announced and completed deals, reaffirming its position as a leading advisor in the M&A sector.
Law Society strikes deal with Italian National Bar in ‘post-Brexit breakthrough’
The Law Society of England and Wales has signed an agreement with the Italian National Bar aimed at supporting UK lawyers practising in Italy. Announced on the 9th of July, the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was described by Law Society president Richard Atkinson as a “post-Brexit breakthrough.”
Court of Appeal endorses revised litigation funding agreements in ‘emphatic boost for funders’
The UK litigation funding sector has received a significant boost after the Court of Appeal upheld the validity of revised litigation funding agreements (LFAs) designed to comply with the Supreme Court’s 2023 PACCAR ruling, which had previously rendered traditional LFAs unenforceable.
How Outside Counsel Can Bridge the Corporate Legal-Comms Divide in High-Stakes Litigation
Effective messaging is essential for maintaining control of the narrative during high-stakes legal disputes, both inside and outside the courtroom. Yet more than 80% of the in-house counsel we surveyed for Greentarget’s 2025 litigation communications survey say their companies act too conservatively during high-profile litigation.
Top Biglaw Firm Increases Office Attendance Demands For Attorneys
It’s a scorching summer, and Biglaw firms seem to have found their own way to help attorneys “cool off”—by rolling out mandatory office attendance policies. The latest firm to extend this frosty invitation? Covington & Burling. With $1.75 billion in gross revenue in 2024 and a No. 31 spot on the Am Law 100, the firm is now requiring lawyers to be in the office four days a week, including those based in London.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Weil boosts funds bench with A&O Shearman hire
Phil Baynes, who was previously a counsel in Weil’s private funds group before leaving for A&O in 2022, returns as a partner in London.
EY loses energy duo to Jones Day as exits continue
Energy partners Michelle T. Davies and Rob McNabb have left EY Law to join Jones Day’s London energy team.
Crowell hires 18-strong Dentons IP team in London
An 18-strong patent team led by renowned patent lawyer Justin Hill has moved from Dentons to Crowell & Moring’s London office. Hill, who was head of Dentons’ European patent prosecution and opposition practices, is joined by Marie Jansson Heeks, who was a senior associate at Dentons. The team is completed by six patent attorneys, four paralegals and six professional staff members.
Thorntons strengthens real estate and construction teams
Leading Scottish law firm Thorntons has appointed Simone Young as partner and Stephanie Zak as commercial real estate consultant, bolstering its commercial real estate team in Edinburgh. Simone joins from Davidson Chalmers Stewart while Stephnie joins from Balfour + Mason.
Taylor Wessing announces new real estate head
Taylor Wessing strengthens its real estate group with the appointment of Emma Chadwick as partner. She joins from Winckworth Sherwood.
Osborne Clarke expands its corporate team
Richard Porter, formerly with A&O Shearman, has joined Osborne Clarke as a partner in London. A specialist in cross-border M&A across the tech, media, and energy sectors, Porter brings deep experience advising global corporations and financial institutions. His hire strengthens Osborne Clarke’s corporate offering as the firm continues to grow its presence in key sectors.
The Americas
Sidley Grows San Diego Office With Global Finance Partner Parker Zangoei
Sidley has welcomed Parker Zangoei as a partner in the firm’s Global Finance group, based in the San Diego office. He joins Sidley from DLA Piper, where he served as co-head of the Private Credit practice and was a partner in the Finance/Venture and Growth Lending group.
Willkie Adds Leading Energy and Infrastructure Partner Blake Winburne in Houston
Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP announced that Blake Winburne has joined the Firm as a partner in the Corporate & Financial Services Department in Houston. Winburne joins from Orrick.
Restructuring Partners Ingrid Bagby and Michele Maman Join Haynes Boone’s Expanding New York Office
Ingrid Bagby and Michele Maman have joined Haynes Boone’s New York Office as partners in the Restructuring team. Both join from Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft.
WilmerHale Adds Adrian Percer to IP Practice in California
Adrian Percer has joined WilmerHale as a partner in its intellectual property practice in Palo Alto, Calif. He joins from Weil Gotshal and Manges.
Jenner & Block adds Partner duo in Chicago from Mayer Brown
Jenner & Block has hired two partners, Richard Bulger and Daniel Ring in Chicago from Mayer Brown.
Former FTC General Counsel Anisha Dasgupta Joins Orrick’s Supreme Court & Appellate Practice
Anisha Dasgupta, former General Counsel of the U.S. Federal Trade Commission, has joined Orrick as a partner in the firm’s Supreme Court & Appellate and Antitrust Litigation practices. She will be based in New York.
Former Microsoft Assistant General Counsel Scott Wise Joins Crowell & Moring
Scott Wise, who most recently served as assistant general counsel for global trade at Microsoft, has joined Crowell & Moring as a partner in the firm’s International Trade Group in Denver.
EMEA
Paul Hastings adds another partner from White & Case in energy and infra-focused buildout
Paul Hastings has hired finance partner William Watson in Abu Dhabi, he joins from White & Case.
Dentons bolsters Belgian Corporate and M&A team with hire of Erwin Simons
Global law firm Dentons has strengthened its Corporate and M&A practice in Brussels with the addition of partner Erwin Simons. Simons joins from DLA Piper.
Dentons welcomes Joost Elsenburg as financial regulatory partner in the Netherlands
Dentons has strengthened its Banking and Finance practice with the hire of Joost Elsenburg as a financial regulatory partner in the Amsterdam office He joins from HVG Law.
Clyde & Co continues to expand its global energy practice with Partner in Abu Dhabi
Clyde & Co has announced the growth of its energy practice in Abu Dhabi with the hire of two market-leading partners, Josh McFadzen and Bryan Wilson.
Covington Boosts European Life Sciences Practice with Spiros Drosos
Spiros Drosos has joined Covington’s Life Sciences Practice based in the firm’s Brussels office. He joins from European Medicines Agency.
Eversheds Sutherland Strengthens European Reach with Latham Partner Acquisition in Germany
Eversheds Sutherland has added Torsten Volkholz, a former partner at Latham, to enhance its German operations. He joins from Latham & Watkins.
Linklaters announced the expansion of its Global Litigation, Arbitration & Investigations practice in the Middle East. The Middle East practice will be led by Sean Cameron. Sean was previously the Head of Disputes & Litigation for NEOM Company.
APAC
Singapore’s Helmsman grows banking practice with hire from Gateway
Singapore law firm Helmsman has hired Teoh Su Yin as a director in its corporate, banking and finance practice group. She joins from Gateway Law.
SAM partner duo returns to firm after year at JSA
Indian law firm Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co (SAM) has reappointed partners Ambarish and Tanavi Mohanty to its Mumbai office, following their recent tenure at rival firm JSA Advocates & Solicitors.
Eversheds SG alliance firm adds first lateral partner with hire from Eng
GT Law, the Singapore alliance firm of Eversheds Sutherland, has appointed Yuh Huey Khoo as a partner to head its financial services, regulatory, and private client practices. She joins from PwC member firm Eng & Co, where she was a director.
Mills Oakley takes 3 partners from rival firms
Mills Oakley has promoted Jason Salman, Sarah Pick, and Yannis Vrodos to partner, highlighting their expertise in key sectors. Salman, with 27 years in financial restructuring and insolvency, joins the Perth office from Ashurst. Pick, formerly at MinterEllison, brings extensive experience in electricity and renewables. Vrodos, from Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer, specialises in major infrastructure, energy, and resources projects. CEO John Nerurker emphasised these moves strengthen the firm’s national capabilities and client service.
In-House
Bill Castner named new Rutgers general counsel
Bill Castner has been named Rutgers University’s Executive Vice President of Legal Affairs and General Counsel. He joins from Connell Foley where he served as Partner.
US nuclear innovator NuScale Power appoints CLO from Centrus Energy
US nuclear energy innovator NuScale Power has hired Shahram Ghasemian as chief legal officer, a newly created position. Ghasemian joins from US nuclear fuel business Centrus Energy, where he was general counsel and chief compliance officer.
Promotions & Appointments:
New leadership at Uría Menéndez
Salvador Sánchez-Terán and Antonio Herrera appointed senior partner and managing partner.
Singapore’s WongPartnership announces leadership changes
Sean Yu has been elected managing partner, replacing Wai King Ng, who will become senior partner alongside his existing role as chair
Walkers elevates 20 to partner in largest overall promotions round in 60-year history
The Promotions are as follows:
Michael Beck – Corporate, Cayman Islands
Sam Francis – Investment Funds, Cayman Islands
Joe Healey – Finance, Cayman Islands
Siobhan Sheridan – Insolvency & Dispute Resolution, Cayman Islands
Daniel Walford – Investment Funds, Cayman Islands
Jenna Wong – Investment Funds, Cayman Islands
Jamie Bookless – Regulatory & Risk Advisory, Guernsey
Eimear Burbridge – Tax, Dublin
Kirsten Faichnie – Investment Funds & Corporate, Jersey
Louise Hamilton – Banking & Finance, Jersey
Sian Langley – Regulatory & Risk Advisory, Jersey
Helena Lavin – Insolvency & Dispute Resolution, Guernsey
Gemma Palmer – Regulatory & Risk Advisory, Jersey
Laurent Thibeault – Insolvency & Dispute Resolution, Guernsey
Benjamin Twidle – Regulatory & Risk Advisory, London
Claire Winrow – Asset Management & Investment Funds, Dublin
Wei Ching Teo – Investment Funds & Corporate, Hong Kong
Kevin Ho – Investment Funds & Corporate, Hong Kong
Michael Kenny – Investment Funds & Corporate, Singapore
Reghard Smith – Corporate, Dubai
Dentons promotes 18, including 3 partners
The Partner Promotions are as follows:
Kurt Tiam – Corporate, Melbourne
Ryan Lennon – Recovery and Restructuring, Perth
Tamara Strack –Recovery and Restructuring, Perth
Mergers & Alliances:
Legal costs firms merge to form £3m business
Liverpool’s KE Costs and Carlisle’s Paramount Legal Costs are merging to form Peak Costs, a £3 million firm with 40+ staff. Martin Walsh will lead as managing director, with Kevin Fasting retaining a major stake. Peak Costs will offer full legal cost services, aiming to expand while maintaining quality.
Cairns boutique acquired by Moray & Agnew
Moray & Agnew has acquired Cairns-based Greenwoods Law, which has served the community for over 44 years. The firms share expertise in property, commercial, and estate law. Paralegal Danika Walker joins Moray & Agnew as part of the deal, effective July 1. Andrew Kerr confirmed efforts to ensure a smooth transition for clients.
Office Openings & Closing:
Willkie Launches in Hamburg, Its Third Office in Germany
On 2 July 2025, Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP announced a new Hamburg office—its third in Germany and 16th worldwide. Launching with 25 lawyers, the office boosts the firm’s restructuring, litigation, and private equity capabilities, supporting its European growth strategy. Willkie’s German team has nearly tripled in five years, now totalling 90 lawyers.
Fieldfisher launches in Portugal with offices in Lisbon and Porto
Fieldfisher is launching in Portugal on 1 July 2025 with offices in Lisbon and Porto, integrating 68 professionals from André Miranda Associados. Led by joint Managing Partners André Miranda and João André Antunes, the team will offer full legal services. The move expands Fieldfisher’s Southern European presence, following recent growth in Austria, Poland, and Italy.
Addleshaw Goddard grows Scottish footprint as international expansion accelerates
Addleshaw Goddard is expanding its Scottish footprint with new offices in Glasgow and Edinburgh.
Financials:
HSF Kramer and HFW Become Latest to Boost NQ Lawyer Pay
HFW has raised its newly qualified solicitor salary by 3.5%, from £100,000 to £103,500, effective immediately. This follows similar moves by firms like Bird & Bird and places HFW ahead of Dentons and Stephenson Harwood, but just below Pinsent Masons and BCLP (£105,000). The increase reflects growing competition and a wider trend of summer salary hikes across major firms.
Ashurst Revenue Grows 8% to Hit £1B
Ashurst posted record revenue of £1.034 billion for FY25, up 8%, with profit per equity partner at £1.39 million—its ninth straight year of growth. Key regions like Hong Kong, Australia, and the Middle East saw double-digit gains, while U.S. growth was strong in Disputes and Energy. Real Estate led sector performance with nearly 50% growth. The firm also expanded AI use with the rollout of “Harvey” and boosted pro bono work by 16%.
Bird & Bird bumps NQ solicitor pay to £102k
Bird & Bird will raise newly qualified solicitor salaries to £102,000 from September – its first time crossing the six-figure mark. The 4% boost brings it in line with Watson Farley & Williams and ahead of firms like Dentons, HFW, and Stephenson Harwood. The firm takes on about 18 trainees a year, currently paid £47,000. This move follows similar salary hikes at Eversheds Sutherland, Pinsent Masons, Ashurst, DLA Piper, and CMS.
Top-50 financial results table 2025: updated live
In the 2024/25 financial year, Ashurst’s revenue grew by 8% to £1.034 billion, with profit per equity partner (PEP) reaching £1.39 million. Stephenson Harwood saw a 17% rise in revenue to £309 million, a 29% increase in PEP to around £1 million, and a 33% jump in reported profit to £130 million. Shoosmiths reported a 5% revenue increase to £217.2 million, a 30% rise in PEP to about £1 million, and a 16% growth in profit to £76.6 million. Fladgate did not disclose revenue or profit figures but recorded a 20% increase in PEP, also to roughly £1 million.
Boodle Hatfield announces record growth as revenue reaches £43m
Boodle Hatfield has posted record revenue of £43.1 million for 2024–25, up around 20%. Over five years, revenue has climbed over 45%, with net profit rising more than 50% and PEP expected to exceed £900,000. This is the firm’s first full financial year since adjusting its year-end to match the tax year.
Technology & Innovation:
Will you embrace AI or risk being left behind?
The UK legal industry is slowly adopting AI for tasks like research and contract review, spurred by digital change and client expectations. Though it improves efficiency, it also brings ethical and security challenges, leading to increased regulatory attention. Viewed as a tool to assist rather than replace lawyers, AI’s use must be strategic, with human judgment and client connections staying central.
AI dooms the billable hour – and Big Law earning
AI’s efficiency threatens the traditional hourly billing model used by law and audit firms, where most revenue still depends on time-tracking. As automation reduces time spent on tasks, firms may need to rethink pricing structures to stay competitive.
How Your Firm Can Have Efficiency *And* Compliance With AI-Powered Legal Tools
Lawyers are under pressure to use AI for efficiency, but concerns over accuracy and confidentiality remain. Tools like MyCase IQ integrate AI into workflows without replacing human judgment, offering features like editing and summarisation to save time while supporting secure, ethical practice.
Diversity & Inclusion:
Lawyers come out for Dublin Pride 2025
Lawyers joined over 280 groups in Dublin’s 2025 Pride Parade, including LGBTQ+ legal advocacy group OUTLaw. The group held a pre-Pride event with speakers like Attorney General Rossa Fanning SC and Bar Council chair Seán Guerin SC. Co-chairs Miah Phelan-Sweeney and Orla Hubbard stressed the need for continued advocacy, especially for trans rights and LGBTQ+ families. OUTLaw will next take part in the Trans and Intersex Pride march on July 12.
EXCLUSIVE Doubt cast on Freshfields’ DEI claims
Data from RollOnFriday reveals Freshfields faces scrutiny over inconsistent diversity figures, questioning its DEI progress. Despite a 2021 five-year plan promising transparency and targets, the firm rebranded its efforts in 2024, ended annual reviews, and dropped U.S. targets, claiming success. However, the 2024 report shows some goals unmet and declines in key areas. Freshfields refused to share updated data, raising doubts about its transparency commitment.
Gender and ethnicity pay gap among barristers widens
The Bar Standards Board reports that gender and ethnicity pay gaps among barristers remain significant and have slightly widened. In 2023/24, women earned 70% and minority ethnic barristers 69% of White male peers’ median income, with minority ethnic women earning just 47%. On average, women earned £148,276 (57% of men’s £258,558), and minority ethnic barristers earned £167,741 (74% of White barristers’ £227,084).
Diversity report suggests solicitors still being barred from bench
Ministry of Justice data shows a decline in solicitors joining the judiciary, with their representation falling from 48% to 40% over the past decade. In 2024/25, non-barristers made up only 11% of new appointments but 36% of those leaving. Female representation has improved, with women holding 39% of court roles and 60% of new appointments, though only 28% of senior court roles. Ethnic minorities make up 11% of court and 14% of tribunal judges, with Black candidates seeing the least progress. Lower socio-economic background applicants remain underrepresented. Judicial leaders acknowledge the slow pace and vow to improve diversity.
Market Commentary:
Law Firm Mergers Up 21% in First Half of 2025
Law firm mergers in the U.S. jumped 21% in early 2025, with 35 deals by June. The biggest was Herbert Smith Freehills acquiring Kramer Levin, creating a 2,600-lawyer transatlantic firm. New York remains a hotspot as smaller firms struggle to compete in size and profitability. Other major deals include Schulte Roth & Zabel merging with McDermott Will & Emery. The trend reflects a growing need for scale and resilience amid intense competition for legal talent.
US Firms Dominate UK M&A Rankings for First Half of 2025
Kirkland & Ellis, the world’s largest law firm and originally founded in Chicago, has led the U.K. rankings for the first time, handling 34 U.K. deals totaling $37.4 billion in value between January 1 and June 30, 2025.
Major Biglaw Firm Ups Their In-Office Requirement For Attorneys
The push for a four-day in-office workweek is gaining traction in Biglaw, with A&O Shearman becoming the latest firm to implement the policy. Starting 2 September, lawyers will be expected to work in the office four days per week, up from the previous three. The firm cited the importance of in-person collaboration for mentorship, training, and maintaining a strong workplace culture, while still supporting some flexibility. This shift reflects a wider trend across the legal sector, with firms like Latham, Skadden, Davis Polk, and WilmerHale already enforcing similar policies, and Sullivan & Cromwell requiring five days in-office.
Ongoing coaching is increasingly valuable for in-house lawyers, not just during the transition from private practice but throughout their careers. As in-house roles evolve to include leadership and strategic influence, lawyers must develop skills beyond legal expertise, such as emotional intelligence, executive presence, and effective communication. Coaches help address challenges like burnout, imposter syndrome, and isolation by offering guidance, structure, and mindset shifts. Investing in coaching can boost both individual growth and organisational success, providing in-house counsel with tools to thrive professionally and personally.
HSF Kramer Sets Sights on U.S. Talent Market Post-Merger
Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer intends to grow quickly in the U.S. following its June merger, aiming to bring on as many as 20 partners within the next 12 to 18 months.
City lawyer hiring hits record high: ‘There is a hyper-focus on London’
Partner hiring across London law firms reached record levels in the first half of 2025, with 349 partners changing firms, a 30% increase compared to the same period last year and 25% above the five-year average, according to data from legal recruitment firm Edwards Gibson.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Ashurst grows corporate team with private equity hire in London
Ashurst adds Christy O’Connell as a partner in the Private Equity team. She joins from Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton, where she served as Counsel.
White & Case takes Ashurst global antitrust head
White & Case welcomes the appointment of former Ashurst global antitrust, trade and regulation lead, Euan Burrows.
Baker Botts bolsters capital markets team
Baker Botts has hired Patrick Lyons and Jennifer Rees as partners in its London office. They both join from Dechert.
White & Case picks up two more Ropes & Gray lawyers in PE expansion
White & Case has hired private equity lawyers Laura Kayani and Nick Matthew as Partners from Ropes & Gray, where they were both counsel.
Dechert adds senior PE lawyer in London from GIC
Dechert has strengthened its private equity and infrastructure practice in London with the addition of Jarlath Pratt, who previously served as the assistant general counsel at Singapore’s sovereign wealth fund, GIC.
BCLP strengthens London corporate team further
International law firm BCLP has strengthened its UK Corporate & Finance Transactions Department by appointing Sean Scanlon. Prior to joining BCLP, Sean was a partner at Arnold & Porter.
Shoosmiths welcomes new partner Wei Wu
Shoosmiths has announced the appointment of Wei Wu as a partner in its Corporate team. She joins the firm from Dentons.
DMH Stallard strengthens team with new partner
DMH Stallard has welcomed Jeff Elway as a partner in its London corporate team. He joins the firm from Gowling WLG.
The Americas
Skadden Hires Two M&A Partners from White & Case
Mingda Zhao and Emery Choi will advise energy and infrastructure clients, as well as private equity funds on mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, investments and other energy transactions. Joining from White & Case, both Zhao and Choi will be based in Houston.
Fox Rothschild Adds Real Estate Veteran
Veteran attorney Thomas A. Bartolozzi has joined Fox Rothschild in Atlanta as a partner from Morris, Manning & Martin.
Perkins Coie Expands Private Client Services With Sarah Bowman
Sarah Bowman joins Perkins Coie’s Seattle office from K&L Gates, where she served as co-practice group coordinator for the firm’s global tax practice.
Founding Partner Leaves Kasowitz Benson Torres to Launch New Firm
Three former partners from the firm founded by prominent litigator Marc Kasowitz, including one of its original co-founders, have launched their own law firm. Eric Herschmann, Dan Benson and Michael Bowen have established a new practice named Herschmann Benson Bowen; the office will be based in New York.
Davis Polk Hires Willkie Partner to Co-Head Firm’s T&E Practice
Jillian Mernes, who had been at Willkie for 14 years, has joined Davis Polk in New York.
Litigation Partner Clayton Falls Joins Holland & Knight in Dallas
Holland & Knight has strengthened its Texas litigation practice by adding Clayton Falls as a partner in its Dallas office. Falls joins from K&L Gates.
Adams, Duerk & Kamenstein LLP Deepens Litigation Bench with Dual Partner Hire
Los Angeles-based firm Adams, Duerk & Kamenstein LLP (ADK) has welcomed two new partners, Anthony Pacheco and M. Anthony (Tony) Brown, both of whom are former federal prosecutors.
EMEA
Hogan Lovells strengthens IP capabilities with Paris hires
Alexandre Rudoni and Andrea Dufaure have joined the firm’s Paris office as partners, arriving from A&O Shearman.
Weil to Welcome Ning-Ly Seng as New Antitrust Partner in Paris
International law firm Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP has announced that Ning-Ly Seng will join the firm as a partner to lead its Paris Antitrust practice, bringing her team with her. She joins from Peltier Juvigny Marpeau & Associés.
DLA’s former Middle East disputes head goes solo
Henry Quinlan has departed DLA Piper in Dubai, where he led the Middle East litigation, arbitration, and investigations practice for nearly ten years, to pursue a full-time role as an independent arbitrator.
Ampersand bolsters patent litigation team with Klaka partner hire
Munich-based IP boutique Ampersand is set to bolster its patent litigation practice with the addition of Stefan Eck, who will be joining as a partner from Klaka. He will be accompanied by associate Maximilian Reif.
CMS strengthens team with two UPC and SEP litigators from Klaka and Freshfields
CMS Hasche Sigle, the German arm of international law firm CMS, has added two new partners to its ranks. Stephan Dorn joins from Freshfields, while Constantin Kurtz arrives from Klaka.
APAC
Four partners leave Indonesia’s GHP to launch new firm Corra Legal
Yohanes Masengi, Mohamad Kadri, Nur Eka Pradata, and Dirgantara Adi Nugroho, formerly partners of Indonesian law firm Corra Legal, have exited to establish a new Jakarta-based law firm called Corra Legal
PRC’s Haiwen expands cap markets practice in HK with ex-Linklaters duo
PRC law firm Haiwen & Partners has expanded its capital markets practice in Hong Kong with the addition of two former Linklaters lawyers: partner Sherry Cui and counsel Leeza Lee.
CRS beefs up Singapore team with Mishcon disputes duo
Charles Russell Speechlys (CRS) has bolstered its rapidly expanding Singapore office with the addition of commercial dispute resolution specialists Henry Winter and Gavin Margetson, both former partners at Mishcon de Reya.
Duane Morris hires from Bird & Bird in Singapore
Akshay Kishore has left Bird & Bird to become the new head of India disputes at the Singapore arm of US-headquartered firm Duane Morris.
In-House
CapVest hires new General Counsel
Peter Schaffer joins CapVest as General Counsel. He joins from Oakley Capital, where he served as Head of Legal.
PAI Partners Appoints Pimco Lawyer as First General Counsel
Susannah Lindenberg joins PAI Partners as GC after a year at Pimco.
Promotions & Appointments:
Travers Smith promotes 9 to partner
Promotions are as follows:
James Barnard, Adam Burk, Jaryd Davidson, Elissavet Grout, Nick Glynn, Tom Margesson, Michael O’Brien Kelly, Richard Offord and Ella Sharpley.
Baker McKenzie completes 2025 partner promotions with 41-strong international round
Baker McKenzie has promoted 41 new partners across its international network in its annual summer promotions, adding to the 18 partners appointed in North and Latin America earlier this January.This year’s total of 59 promotions represents the smallest group in the past decade, a period during which the firm has typically promoted more than 80 partners annually.
IP specialist Fish & Richardson promotes chief legal risk officer to GC role
Elham Dehbozorgi is replacing Roger Feldman, who is retiring after more than two decades at the firm.
Ian Denham takes over as Moray & Agnew’s new national and NSW managing partner
Ian Denham will step into the roles of national managing partner and NSW managing partner at Moray & Agnew, effective 1 July, succeeding Geoff Connellan.
A member of the firm’s national executive, Denham has been a partner at Moray & Agnew since 2003.
Fieldfisher appoints Barry Fagan as head of public and regulatory team
Fieldfisher Ireland has named Barry Fagan as the new head of its public and regulatory department. A partner at the firm since 2017, Mr Fagan will assume the role on 1 July 2025.
MKB Law appoints Kelly Shaw as head of family law
Belfast-based MKB Law has appointed Kelly Shaw as its new head of family law, succeeding director Anne Marie Kelly who has retired.
Darren Maher picked as Matheson’s next managing partner
Matheson partners have unanimously elected Darren Maher to succeed Michael Jackson as managing partner next year.
Mergers & Alliances:
McDermott, Schulte agree $2.8bn merger
Chicago-based McDermott Will & Emery and New York firm Schulte Roth & Zabel have agreed to merge, forming a combined entity that will rank among the top 20 U.S. law firms by revenue.
Office Openings & Closing:
US law firm Michelman & Robinson launches in London
US law firm Michelman & Robinson has opened an office in London and plans to hire a “significant number” of lawyers as it makes its European debut.
Addleshaw Goddard opens Abu Dhabi office
International law firm Addleshaw Goddard today announced it has opened an office in Abu Dhabi after securing a licence to operate in the UAE capital.
Arbitration-focused Peter & Kim opens Perth office to expand Oz presence
International arbitration specialist firm Peter & Kim has opened a new office in Perth, Western Australia, marking its latest expansion as it strengthens its presence across the Asia-Pacific region.
PCL Lawyers opens Adelaide office
PCL Lawyers has announced the opening of its new Adelaide office, as part of the firm’s strategy to strengthen its presence in South Australia and build lasting relationships with the local legal community, businesses, and residents.
Akin announced today that it has obtained a license from the Ministry of Justice of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), marking the final approval needed to launch its Riyadh office. The new office is scheduled to open later this summer.
Financials:
Stephenson Harwood PEP Hits £1M, Posts Record Revenue Growth
Stephenson Harwood has broken through the £300 million revenue mark for the first time.
Firms must reveal profit and loss figures from 2027
Starting in April 2027, every law firm structured as a limited company or LLP will be required to disclose profit and loss figures, under new government measures aimed at tackling fraud.
The Biggest Partner Compensation Gap In Biglaw
Am Law 100 firms leaped to a 12.3-to-1 equity partner pay ratio on average last year, according to ALM survey data.
Shoosmiths smashes £1m PEP milestone – hands out £3.5m in bonuses
Shoosmiths has surpassed the £1 million profit per equity partner (PEP) threshold for the first time, following an outstanding performance in FY25. PEP jumped 30% to hit seven figures, with net profit increasing 16% to £76.6 million. Revenue grew 5% to £217.2 million. To celebrate this achievement, the firm is awarding a £3.5 million bonus pool to its 1,300 eligible employees, equivalent to 5% of their salaries next month.
Technology & Innovation:
New research explores judicial attitudes to AI
Researchers from Ireland and the United States have released findings from a series of focus group discussions with senior UK judges on the use of AI in the courtroom.
Dentons Partners with AI Venture Studio AXL
Global law firm Dentons has entered into a strategic partnership with AXL, a Canada-based group specializing in creating and launching AI companies, aiming to deliver exponential value to clients through innovation.
Diversity & Inclusion:
UK legal regulator introduces updated diversity toolkit to boost talent retention in large firms
The toolkit recommends actions to improve retention rates, including confidential feedback mechanisms and a senior leader-sponsored equity, diversity, and inclusion committee that addresses staff concerns like work allocation regularly.
Mastercard Stakeholders Reject Anti-DEI Proposal
At its annual meeting on June 24, 2025, Mastercard delivered a clear message as stakeholders overwhelmingly voted down an anti-DEI proposal submitted by the conservative shareholder activist group, the National Centre for Public Policy Research.
‘We’re all nervous right now’ – how a subdued Pride month got caught in the DEI backlash
Amid a Pride Month that has been more ‘fraught’ than ever, Alex Ryan and Amy Ulliott spoke to LGBTQ+ lawyers about the current state of the legal profession in the wake of the Supreme Court ruling on the definition of ‘woman’ and Trump’s crackdown on DEI.
Market Commentary:
Why Are Cleary, Goodwin Procter and Other Top Law Firms Abandoning Frankfurt?
“In Frankfurt there’s not enough to go around anymore,” said Ina Steidl, senior partner at legal recruiter Schollmeyer & Steidl. “The big transactions used to be there but it’s not the case nowadays, so at some point U.S. firms decide it isn’t worth keeping an office open.”
It’s also difficult for American firms who expect to bill New York rates in a German market where the economy has been struggling for years.
Perkins Coie Confirms Layoffs Following Fallout From Trump-Linked Executive Order
Perkins Coie lays off 5% of staff, citing operational strategy, amid lingering effects of Trump-era executive order and internal morale concerns.
The beginner’s guide to law firm mergers – a managing partner’s perspective
Following the addition of two former law firm managing partners to 3Kites, Paul Longhurst draws on their extensive experience to develop a checklist for firms exploring a potential merger.
How lawyers can turn climate ambitions into enforceable action
As the climate crisis accelerates amid growing investor scrutiny and evolving regulations, companies can no longer rely on vague pledges. To meet the moment, they must develop transition plans that are not only credible but legally binding, transforming ambition into enforceable action.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Sullivan & Cromwell makes rare London lateral with hire of high-profile A&O Shearman partner
A&O Shearman global financial services regulatory co-head and financial institutions sector lead Barnabas Reynolds has left the firm to join Sullivan & Cromwell.
HSF Kramer hires partner from Ashurst to head up real estate disputes team
Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer has hired real estate lawyer Alison Hardy from Ashurst to head up the newly merged firm’s real estate dispute resolution practice.
Global law firm Greenberg Traurig, LLP has announced the addition of Chris Buck as a shareholder in its London Private Equity Practice. He joins from his role as general counsel and head of operations at Spheres, a European private investment firm.
Baker McKenzie has hired an investment funds partner in London
Baker McKenzie has hired investment funds partner Nick Benson into its London office from Latham & Watkins. He joins from Weil.
Lavelle Partners hires Paul McCutcheon as partner and head of housing
Lavelle Partners LLP has appointed Paul McCutcheon as a partner and head of housing within the firm’s property team. He joins from RDJ.
Mason Hayes & Curran welcomes charity law partner Ursula McMahon
Mason Hayes & Curran has appointed Ursula McMahon as a partner in its charity and not-for-profit team. She joins from Matheson.
NatWest Group’s Tracy Watkinson announced as global firm Kennedys’ first chief operating officer
Global firm Kennedys has announced that Tracy Watkinson, NatWest Group’s former chief operating officer of finance, will be its first chief operating officer.
The Americas
Brian Rose and Allison Pearce join Troutman Pepper Locke from Porter Hedges.
Cooley Taps Adam Longenbach as Debt Finance Partner in New York
Adam Longenbach joined Cooley as a partner in its debt finance practice in New York. He joins from Paul Weiss.
Latham & Watkins Poised to Hire Wachtell Deals Star Podolsky
Latham & Watkins is set to hire Wachtell Lipton Rosen & Katz dealmaker Zach Podolsky, a major coup for Latham’s global mergers and acquisitions practice.
Fisher Phillips Welcomes James Holt in Pittsburgh
James Holt joins Fisher Phillips from Reed Smith with extensive first-chair litigation experience and a formidable reputation in the Pittsburgh legal community.
Kathryn Inman, who served as general counsel for the Florida Office of the Attorney General since 2022, has joined Holland & Knight’s Tallahassee office as a member of the Public Policy & Regulation Group.
Akin makes second double partner hire in Chicago from Mayer Brown
The incoming duo include M&A partner Joshua La Vigne and investment management partner Jessica Pan, from Mayer Brown.
EMEA
McDermott hires Herbert Smith Freehills partner for Paris IP practice
Frédéric Chevallier has joined McDermott’s IP team in Paris as a partner. He moved from Herbert Smith Freehills.
Norton Rose Fulbright bolsters its real estate offering with two new partners in Paris
Global law firm Norton Rose Fulbright has announced that David Lacaze and Isabelle Augais have joined as partners in its real estate team in Paris. They join from Herbert Smith Freehills.
White-collar defence partner returns to K&L Gates
Global law firm K&L Gates announced on Tuesday (17 June) the hire of former Alston & Bird partner Isabelle De Smedt
Geradin Partners debuts in Germany with high-profile hires
The German expansion will be spearheaded by two leading antitrust partners: Thomas Höppner, who joins from Hausfeld, and Thomas Funke, who comes from Osborne Clarke.
APAC
Boyle joins White & Case from Bird & Bird, where he was a partner.
Withers expands Singapore disputes practice with key hire from Simmons & Simmons
Withers has enhanced its dispute resolution capabilities in Asia by appointing Mohammed Reza as partner and head of international arbitration at Withers KhattarWong, its affiliated practice in Singapore. Reza joins after a decade at Simmons & Simmons.
Stephenson Harwood hires CC counsel for HK restructuring team
Stephenson Harwood hires Alvin Cheung as a partner to enhance its Hong Kong restructuring and insolvency practice, from Clifford Chance.
PRC firm Jia Yuan bolsters cap markets practice with hire from Davis Polk
PRC law firm Jia Yuan Law Offices has hired Jennifer Ng as a partner in Beijing and Hong Kong from Davis Polk & Wardwell.
Singapore’s Oon & Bazul welcomes back shipping lawyer as partner
Singapore-based law firm Oon & Bazul has hired Fazlina Sapuan as a partner in its shipping and international trade practice. She joins from being legal counsel at Scandinavian dry bulk operator Western Bulk.
Japan’s Isshiki bolsters life sciences practice with senior hire
Isshiki & Partners hired Hiromi Furushima as a partner. He previously served as director of international legal at Alnylam Pharmaceuticals.
Duane Morris Singapore hires former Birds partner to head India disputes
Duane Morris & Selvam has appointed Akshay Kishore as director and head of its India dispute resolution practice from Bird & Bird.
In-House
SaskCentral hire new General Counsel
Suzanne Anton joins SasksCentral as General Counsel and Corporate Secretary.
VEON Appoints Vitaly Shmakov as Acting General Counsel
VEON Ltd., a global digital operator, appointed Vitaly Shmakov as the Acting General Counsel, based in VEON’s headquarters in the Dubai International Financial Center.
Team Moves
White and Williams LLP is pleased to announce the addition of four Partners and two Counsel to the Firm. The Firm welcomes as Partners Bonita K. Black, James P. Carlon, Michael JW Rennock, and Clara Krivoy.
Promotions & Appointments:
Australian Law News – King & Wood Mallesons Promote Four Partners
Joining the KWM Australia partnership are:
Reed Smith appoints Valvanis to lead Princeton office
Diane Bettino stepped down after 11 years as office managing partner. In a June 16 press release, the firm named financial services group member Nicholas Valvanis as her successor.
SNG & Partners announces promotions across Leadership positions
Anju Gandhi has been made a Senior Partner (Head of Banking & Finance), and Sadhav Mishra has been elevated as Senior Partner (Head of Real Estate). Aditya Vikram Dua has been appointed as the Head of Financial Services. In addition, Samreen Paloba has been promoted as a Partner, and Nishtha Arora has been promoted as an Associate Partner.
Deloitte Ireland strengthens leadership team with nine partner promotions
Two new equity partners promoted at Weightmans
The addition of Catriona Wolfenden and Jane Price increases the firm’s total equity partnership strength to 45, with the total partner count currently standing at 267.
Mergers & Alliances:
Former ZICO Cambodia firm Sok Siphana in Kinstellar tie-up
European law firm Kinstellar has expanded its presence in Southeast Asia after announcing a tie-up with a new firm in Cambodia called Sok Siphana Sethalay in association with Kinstellar Southeast Asia.
Conflicts, weak brand drive KPMG-ZICO Law merger to end
The much-touted merger between KPMG and the ZICO Law network has largely collapsed, around two-and-a-half years after the Big Four consulting firm expanded its legal arm across Southeast Asia.
Office Openings & Closing:
Goodwin to exit Frankfurt and shutter German real estate business
US firm Goodwin Procter is planning to scale back its German operations by ‘winding down’ its German real estate practice and shutting its Frankfurt office later this year, the second US firm in the past month to announce retrenchment plans in the city.
Financials:
Browne Jacobson’s revenue hits record £137m after 16% growth
Browne Jacobson has rung in this year’s UK financial reporting season, announcing it grew turnover by 16% in the year to 30 April to a record high of £137m
How UK Lawyer Pay Rates Are Reshaping the Legal Job Market
CMS has raised its London NQ salary to £120k, up from £110k, which means they’re now on par with Simmons & Simmons and Travers Smith. DLA Piper NQs are now looking at £130k and Ashurst used to pay its London NQs £125k, but as of May 1, that’s jumped to £140k putting them on a par with Macfarlanes.
Revenue Per Lawyer Rankings: The US Firms Outpacing the Pack
Law.com International’s new analysis of revenue per lawyer (RPL) in the UK legal market shows a striking trend: US-headquartered firms continue to lead the pack by a significant margin.
Record year for Leeds law firm as turnover tops £20m for the first time
Blacks Solicitors, a Leeds-based law firm, has reported a record financial year with turnover passing the £20m mark for the first time.
Technology & Innovation:
Consilio Acquires AI Research Lab TrueLaw to Advance Legal AI Capabilities
Consilio’s acquisition of TrueLaw boosts its legal AI offerings, including proprietary LLMs and narrative analysis, amid broader industry shifts.
DISCO Brings Gen-AI-Powered Auto Review to the EU, UK
DISCO announced the launch of its generative AI automated review tool in the European Union and the United Kingdom, bringing the powerful eDiscovery technology to tens of thousands of law firms and corporations across Europe.
The Role of AI and Autonomous Driving in Reducing Transportation Litigation Risk
As pressure mounts, the industry is turning to technology—specifically autonomous systems and AI-assisted driving tools.
Diversity & Inclusion:
New diversity toolkit to help larger firms retain talent
Dr Sam De Silva, global co-head of the commercial practice group at international firm CMS, and chair of the Society’s ethnic solicitors network, said the new guide is designed to help firms retain and advance minority ethnic diverse talent, and stay ahead in a competitive legal market.
ADR: An Urgent Need for More Competition and Greater Diversity
What are the benefits of alternative dispute resolution (ADR)? Ostensibly, flexibility, efficiency, equitable solutions, speed, and cost all favour the use of ADR. Still, the process faces a significant challenge: A lack of diversity among its practitioners, decision-makers and the number of available platforms. These deficiencies present implications not only for fairness and legitimacy but also for the quality and accessibility of justice.
Corporate Legal Departments Reevaluate Diversity Tracking Amid Rising Concerns
The practice of tracking diversity metrics for outside counsel has come under scrutiny. Jennifer McIver, a legal operations consultant at Wolters Kluwer, pointed out that the focus is shifting from the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) to assessing whether the risks associated with tracking these metrics are justified.
Market Commentary:
LMEs: The Restructuring Tool That Can Make or Break Client Relationships | Law.com
Partners say using the American-style restructuring process too aggressively can jeopardise future mandates from lenders.
Trump Deals Revealed Deep Tensions Between Corporate and Litigation Departments
Corporate departments, eager to preserve federal access and contracts, are at odds with litigators who fear reputational damage and erosion of ethical norms. This clash signals deeper disruption: firms must now choose between preserving business ties to power or defending core professional principles.
Why Boutique Law Firms Are Strategically Positioned to Serve Entrepreneurial Clients
Their smaller scale fosters stronger personal relationships, nimble decision-making, and customised solutions—critical for startups and high-growth ventures navigating legal and business pivots. For entrepreneurs, that means smarter alignment with strategic goals, better value, and a partner who moves at their pace and scale.
Can Legal Services Corp. Survive the Chopping Block Again?
President Donald Trump seeks to slash continuing funding for The Legal Services Corporation, which provides grants to nonprofit legal aid groups nationwide.
The World’s Highest-Grossing Law Firm Is Investing in Mass Torts Defense.
Kirkland & Ellis, already at a staggering $8.8 billion in revenue and $9 million PEP, is building its defence capability against high-stakes, multi-district litigation, following the pandemic-era slowdown which gave way to renewed litigation momentum, prompting top firms to invest in deep benches and sophisticated legal strategies.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
White & Case boosts City private equity practice with hire of Ropes Hall of Famer
White & Case has ramped up its private equity capabilities in London with the hire of leading partner Helen Croke from Ropes & Gray.
Hausfeld hires competition partner from Scott+Scott in London
Litigation boutique Hausfeld has hired competition lawyer Belinda Hollway from Scott+Scott to bolster its class actions bench in London.
EMEA
Gibson Dunn drives Dubai growth with funds hire
Gibson Dunn & Crutcher has boosted its Middle East offerings with the hire of Carolyn Abram, who joins the firm’s investment funds team in Dubai as a partner. She joins from Morgan Lewis.
Paul Hastings LLP announced the continued expansion of its international energy and infrastructure with the hires of Stefan Mrozinski and projects lawyer Habeeb Rahman as partners in Abu Dhabi. Both join from White & Case LLP.
APAC
Former Disney and Star India General Counsel Mihir Rale has joined Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas as a Partner (Co-Head – Digital | TMT).
JSA corporate lead Khan joins CAM after one-year stint
Star dealmaker Iqbal Khan has joined Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas (CAM) as a partner in its corporate practice after spending just one year leading J. Sagar Associates’ national corporate/M&A practice.
India’s CAM hires BofA compliance chief as regulatory practice head
Indian law firm Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas (CAM) has appointed Nishith Mehta, a senior executive from Bank of America (BofA), as its new head of financial regulatory and compliance.
The Americas
Seven Willkie Farr Partners Exit for Cooley After Trump Deal
Seven partners left Willkie Farr & Gallagher, one of the nine firms that made a deal with President Donald Trump, to join Cooley’s litigation department in San Francisco. The seven are Simona Agnolucci, Ben Hur, Joshua Anderson, Tiffany Lin, Jonathan Patchen, Michael Rome and Eduardo Santacana.
Lewis Brisbois is pleased to welcome Partners Jesse Zirillo, Samantha Cavalier, Gabrielle Carbonara, and Bridget Sasson. The team join from Dickie, McCamey & Chilcote
Frost Brown Todd Bolsters Labor and Employment Practice with Addition of Partner Elizabeth La Rocca
Frost Brown Todd welcomes new Partner Elizabeth La Rocca. She joins from Foster LLP.
Leading Private Equity Partner Carolyn Vardi Joins Kirkland & Ellis
Kirkland & Ellis announced today that Carolyn Vardi has joined the Firm as a partner in the Corporate Practice Group. Carolyn joins from Ropes and Gray.
Leading Commercial Real Estate Finance and Capital Markets Partner Rejoins Kilpatrick in Atlanta
Kilpatrick announced today the addition of Bob Stupar, partner, to its Real Estate Finance and Capital Markets Team in the firm’s growing Corporate Department. He joins from Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner.
Pérez-Llorca adds disputes partners in Mexico from Jones Day
Elite firm Pérez-Llorca (Mexico) has added firepower to its disputes offering by hiring a partner and of counsel from Jones Day’s Highly Recommended Mexico City office to its senior rank.
Alberto Sepúlveda joins White & Case as a partner in Mexico City
Global law firm White & Case LLP has expanded its Global Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) Practice with the addition of Alberto Sepúlveda as a partner.Sepúlveda was previously the General Counsel, Corporate Secretary and Head of Legal and Corporate Security at Wal-Mart de Mexico
Paul Hastings Strengthens Premier Private Equity Platform With Two-Partner Team
Christopher Zochowski and Bradley Noojin have joined the firm as partners. Zochowski and Noojin come to the firm from A&O Shearman
Former Sotheby’s chair joins Withers to head art advisory practice in New York
Former Sotheby’s chair and president for the Americas Mari-Claudia Jiménez has joined UK law firm Withers as a partner and head of its newly formed art and advisory practice in New York.
In-House
Robot chef-maker Circus Group hires GC from German defence tech company Helsing
German AI food service business Circus Group has hired Sasha Borovik as general counsel ahead of the company’s push into the defence industry. Borovik joins from defence business Helsing, where he was GC and compliance director.
Promotions & Appointments:
Dorsey Names Seth Goertz as Head of Cybersecurity Practice
International law firm Dorsey & Whitney LLP announced that it has launched a Cybersecurity Practice Group with Phoenix Partner Seth Goertz as the group’s Chair.
Baker McKenzie elects Sunny Mann as Global Chair
Baker McKenzie has announced the election of Partner Sunny Mann as the firm’s new Global Chair, succeeding Milton Cheng in the role. Mann is based in London and is the global chair of Baker McKenzie’s International Trade Practice Group
TLT names financial services head as new senior partner
TLT has elected its head of financial services, Andrew Lyon, as its new senior partner. Lyon will begin his three-year term on 1 January 2026 and succeed Sasha Butterworth, who has served as senior partner since 2022.
Mergers & Alliances:
Foot Anstey Expands Outside England with New Merger
Foot Anstey, a law firm headquartered in England, has merged with McKees, a commercial law firm located in Belfast, Northern Ireland, marking its initial expansion outside of England. Announced on June 9, 2025, this strategic partnership enables Foot Anstey to access Northern Ireland’s expanding professional services market and broaden its presence throughout Britain and Ireland.
Kinstellar builds in Asia with Cambodia launch
European law firm Kinstellar has entered the Cambodian market by partnering with two local firms—Sok Siphana & Associates and Sethalay Law Office—under a new brand, Sok Siphana Sethalay in association with Kinstellar Southeast Asia. This move follows its 2024 joint venture in Vietnam with Asia Counsel and aligns with its strategy to build a top-tier legal network in emerging markets. The combined firm, led by Vanseka Sok, includes around 30 lawyers offering corporate and commercial services. Kinstellar, which recently expanded into Vienna and absorbed Noerr’s Central and Eastern European operations, continues to strengthen its Southeast Asian presence.
“New chapter ahead” as JCP Solicitors announces merger with fellow law firm
JCP Solicitors, based in South Wales, is set to merge with Port Talbot firm Howe & Spender on 11 August 2025, creating an £11 million legal business aimed at boosting regional growth and investment. The merger will enhance JCP’s presence in Port Talbot, expanding its services to private and commercial clients while retaining Howe & Spender’s experienced team. Ian Spender will join JCP’s Lifetime Planning team as a director, and the move opens up opportunities for future roles, including apprenticeships and trainee positions. The merger supports JCP’s wider growth strategy across South Wales and reflects both firms’ commitment to community-focused legal services and regional regeneration.
Malaysian law firm Lee & Poh grows following merger
Malaysian law firm Lee & Poh Partnership has expanded after merging with the dispute resolution team of Tuang Chu & Co (TCC), creating a strengthened legal practice with 25 lawyers.
Office Openings & Closing:
Goodwin to scrap Frankfurt office and German real estate team
Goodwin Procter has revealed it will shut down its Frankfurt office and wind down its German real estate practice later this year.
UK Top 100 firm Ward Hadaway launches Birmingham office and names Joanna Lee-Mills as Equity Partner
Ward Hadaway, a UK Top 100 law firm, has opened a new office in Birmingham, its first outside the North of England and first new location in over a decade. The firm has also appointed Joanna Lee Mills, a Colmore BID Board Director, as an Equity Partner to lead the expansion. The Birmingham office, based in Chamberlain Square, is part of the firm’s strategy to double its turnover over the next ten years and marks a significant commitment to the Midlands. Ward Hadaway plans to grow its team in the region to meet rising demand for legal services across housing, employment, and community development.
Foot Anstey Expands Outside England with New Merger
Foot Anstey, a law firm headquartered in England, has merged with McKees, a commercial law firm located in Belfast, Northern Ireland, marking its initial expansion outside of England. Announced on June 9, 2025, this strategic partnership enables Foot Anstey to access Northern Ireland’s expanding professional services market and broaden its presence throughout Britain and Ireland.
Aitken Partners expands to Brisbane
Aitken Partners has officially expanded its presence to Brisbane with the opening of a new branch.
Financials:
DLA Piper, CMS, Ashurst hike NQ pay
A trio of firms – CMS, DLA Piper and Ashurst – have raised pay for their newly qualified lawyers, signalling the continued importance of junior lawyers in the battle for talent. CMS has upped its London NQ salary to £120k, DLA Piper to £130k and Ashurst to £140k.
DLA Piper has announced a pay rise for its junior lawyers, with newly qualified solicitors in London set to earn £130,000 from September following an 18 percent increase. Those based in regional offices will see their salaries rise by 9.3 percent to £82,000. Trainee solicitors are also receiving a boost, with London trainees earning £52,000 in their first year and £57,000 in their second. Outside London, trainee pay will rise to £35,500 in year one and £39,000 in year two.
Ashurst hikes NQ solicitor pay to £140k
Ashurst has announced a pay rise for its newly qualified associates, with salaries increasing from £125,000 to £140,000, representing a boost of £15,000 or 12 percent. This change brings Ashurst in line with firms such as Baker McKenzie, Hogan Lovells, and Macfarlanes, and places it ahead of Herbert Smith Freehills, where NQs earn £135,000. Trainee solicitors at Ashurst will also see improved pay, with first-year salaries rising to £57,000 and second-year pay increasing to £62,000, up from £52,000 and £57,000 respectively.
CMS has increased the salaries of its newly qualified solicitors, raising the London base pay from £110,000 to £120,000 starting June 2025. The firm has also boosted NQ salaries across its regional offices, with Manchester, Sheffield, and Liverpool now offering £68,000, up from £62,000; Scotland’s pay rising to £68,000 from £60,000; and Bristol’s increasing to £76,500 from £70,000. This adjustment positions CMS alongside firms like Travers Smith and Simmons & Simmons, both paying £120,000 for London NQs, and places it above firms such as Taylor Wessing, which offers £115,000.
Technology & Innovation:
A New Era of Legal Drafting and Review: Introducing the AI Associate from DraftWise
DraftWise AI Associate, a drafting agent that, from a simple request, can draft, review, and markup contracts using precedent-based insights and firm-endorsed language to deliver higher-quality contracts more efficiently than ever before.
Paladin Partners with 30 Law Schools to Create Pro Bono Platform for Students
Paladin, the leading legal technology company powering pro bono engagement across law firms, in-house legal teams, and legal services organizations, is thrilled to announce the launch of a pro bono platform designed specifically for law schools and their students.
Diversity & Inclusion:
“Magic Circle” Firms Remove Pride Logos Following Trump’s Criticism of DEI
Several leading City law firms, including Ashurst, Baker McKenzie, DLA Piper, Freshfields, and Linklaters, have removed rainbow-themed Pride logos from social media this year following pressure from Donald Trump’s executive order targeting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. The firms, all with major US operations, have scaled back Pride support amid warnings from the Trump administration that DEI policies may be discriminatory. Only Slaughter & May continues to display Pride logos, likely due to its smaller US presence. Other professional services firms like PwC have also reduced their Pride visibility.
Big Law Secondment Program Opens Doors for Young African Lawyers
The International Lawyers for Africa (ILFA) secondment program has supported over 300 African lawyers since 2006, placing them in global law firms’ London and Dubai offices for hands-on legal experience. Participants, like Silver Kayondo of Uganda’s Ortus Advocates, gain exposure to international legal work—Kayondo notably contributed to projects for Meta while at White & Case. ILFA alumni include Jennifer Chimanga and Kayode Oladipo, now leaders at Clifford Chance, and the program is supported by firms such as Freshfields, Clifford Chance, White & Case, Hogan Lovells, Debevoise & Plimpton, and Latham & Watkins.
Kirkland Replaces Inclusion Leader and Trims DEI Team
Kirkland & Ellis has made major shifts within its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) leadership, reportedly dismissing its global inclusion director, Joi Bourgeois, and several other DEI staff members in recent months. Grace Geronimo, formerly associate director of firmwide inclusion, has stepped into the top DEI role. According to sources familiar with the changes, the restructuring is part of a broader internal reorganisation that began before the U.S. election. However, the timing aligns with former President Donald Trump’s increased scrutiny of law firms’ DEI efforts, prompting a noticeable shift in Kirkland’s external messaging on inclusion.
Keker Recommits to Diversity Fellowships, Deepening Opposition to Trump Administration Aims
“Our Diversity Scholarship program is lawful, anti-discriminatory, and aligned with our core values and professional ethics,” said Keker van Nest managing partner Laurie Carr Mims, who’s previously spoken out against the president’s assault on law firms.
Law fellowship program Skadden Foundation eliminates racial justice references from applications
The foundation, which is funded by US-headquartered firm Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom LLP, had last year required program applicants to address “the role of public interest work in addressing systemic racism” and describe the intended impact of their projects on racial equity in the US. The question has since been removed from current application materials.
Market Commentary:
The Largest 50 Firms by UK Revenue: US Firms Continue to Capture Market Share
Chicago-founded behemoth Kirkland & Ellis is on course to become the largest law firm by U.K. revenue, according to the latest table by Law.com International.
GCs Hunt for New Talent Pools as Supply of Law Firm Associates Wanes
Thomson Reuters’ research highlights the decline in associates (from 44.5% in 2005-2009 to 40.2% in 2020-2024) and equity partners (from 31.2% to 27.8% over the same period), signalling the need for GCs to explore new approaches to developing in-house legal talent.
Two in Five UK In-House Lawyers Have CEO Aspirations
The research, conducted by Pinsent Masons, found that 39% of the in-house lawyers surveyed said they would like to be a CEO later in their career—while 61% did not.
Fides have extensive experience in helping clients find the right talent within the highly competitive Private Equity-focused legal market. In this article, we provide insights gained firsthand from our searches, coupled with an analysis of the data we’ve gathered on lateral hires in the year to date. We offer a view on how law firms can best position themselves to secure the right talent and take their practice forward.
As discussed in our previous article, the London Private Equity market is at the forefront of the competition for market share among leading firms, with US firms aggressively expanding their presence. They have consistently recruited top-tier talent from both UK firms and international competitors. The appeal of US firms is most clearly demonstrated by the offer of significantly higher compensation, at times exceeding £2 million per annum, and surpassing the PEP of many UK counterparts.
Firms such as Kirkland & Ellis, Latham & Watkins, Sidley Austin, McDermott Will & Emery, and Gibson Dunn have strategically bolstered their Corporate and Finance teams with key hires, thereby solidifying their market presence. In total, US firms have made 11 Private Equity Partner hires in London this year. Their influence is also evident in revenue generation, with US firms outperforming their UK counterparts in revenue per lawyer. Of these 11 hires, only 3 came from UK firms, and for the most part, we have witnessed experienced partners trading one US firm for another, underscoring the dominant position of these platforms.
In contrast, UK law firms have largely adopted a more selective approach to lateral hiring, prioritising strategic additions over aggressive expansion. Clifford Chance is the exception. Nine lateral partner hires were made by British-headquartered firms in London, with four of these made by Clifford Chance in the first quarter. Five of these nine hires were from US law firms, with three being “first day” Counsel to Partner hires. This demonstrates how UK firms often target emerging talent when hiring from US firms, avoiding the high cost of more established partners.
Both Clifford Chance and A&O Shearman have made significant hires from US firms in the Private Equity space, demonstrating that UK-headquartered platforms can and do compete for more senior hires. The two magic circle firms have both attracted senior Private Equity lawyers from elite US firm Skadden this year, with the firm losing four Private Equity-focused lawyers to British firms without making any lateral Private Equity hires in the last five months.
As discussed in our previous article, Spencer Baylin, Clifford Chance’s head of Private Equity, explains that one of the key elements differentiating Clifford Chance from US firms is its full-service offering across the region. Bruce Embley joined the firm from Skadden, having previously served as co-head of Freshfields’ global M&A practice. George Knighton, whose practice focuses on both private and public M&A as well as Private Equity transactions, became a partner at A&O in 2008 and has returned to the firm after five years with Skadden.
While UK firms maintain strong relationships with domestic and European clients, they face increasing challenges in competing with the financial incentives offered by US firms. UK firms have built a reputation for excellence in specialised sectors that align with their ‘brand’. However, retaining top Private Equity talent has become increasingly difficult as US firms continue to attract high-profile partners who are seeking to ‘trade up’ to a longer equity runway.
It may seem that UK law firms are consistently losing out, but that’s not the entire truth. Maintaining an effective billing rate that attracts a US law firm while remaining profitable is not as straightforward as one might think. Firstly, there is a significant disparity in associate pay standards, which can be around 40%. Another important factor to consider is the substantial difference in rates within the market. The European market, in particular, has struggled to keep pace, with London being one of the few global hubs able to leverage rates nearly equivalent to those in New York. Additionally, competition for instructions among the top firms is fierce and heavily relationship-driven in the private equity sector. A search we recently completed on behalf of a leading US law firm serves as testament to this, with the firm seeking targeted references from work givers to ensure that the hire could effect meaningful changes through portable relationships.
The basis of this search centred on capability and relationships rather than a focus on output, which, in this case, was impressive but less of a driving force behind the hire. Fides is currently running a variety of searches in this area, including in London, Germany, the Netherlands, and elsewhere. One is a leadership position for a top 20 firm in London, while the other represents a jurisdiction opportunity for a top 10 UK firm in Germany. Traditional portability is not the motivation for these searches. The emphasis is more on alignment, existing practice health, and aspirations for growth in the future, particularly in years 2 and 3 of the new hire’s tenure with the firm.
In contrast, Fides is also operating on a Private Capital mandate in London for a rising US law firm that is more focused on transferability, the relativity of rates, and success in years one and two. This client offers generous rewards, with 50% of the compensation linked to performance. The base draw is appealing, but partners receive half their income as a fixed profit award, while the other half depends on year-end performance. This model can lead to significant financial gains but may also cause fluctuations in earnings. These varied approaches to partner recruitment reflect the footprint and strategies of individual firms.
In conversations held with candidates regarding these searches, lawyers have explained that growth in this highly competitive market is hard-earned, and a new platform must provide the right support to enable a successful transition. Additional capabilities in areas such as antitrust, tax support, and leveraged finance have been cited as important factors when it comes to providing a holistic Private Equity service to clients.
It is therefore crucial for firms to consider their current strengths and intended areas for growth when approaching the talent market. A focused approach to selecting candidates with the right experience will create synergies for both the platform they join and the potential for an increase in their billings. This presents both challenges and opportunities when making a partner hire.
Overall, US firms have been more proactive in lateral hiring, particularly regarding senior partners. They can leverage financial incentives and global market positioning to attract top Private Equity talent. UK firms, however, continue to make hires at all levels. We have learnt that all firms can find the right talent in this space, provided there is a coherent strategy that utilises the strengths of the existing platform, matched with the skills and ambition of the right candidate.
Moves Tracker, compiled by Fides Search:
| Name | From | To | City | Month |
| Christopher Maxwell | Morris, Manning & Martin | Reed Smith | Atlanta | Jan-25 |
| Elliot Franklin | Morris, Manning & Martin | Reed Smith | Atlanta | Jan-25 |
| Larkin Ellzey | Morris, Manning & Martin | Reed Smith | Atlanta | Jan-25 |
| Nick Foreste | Morris, Manning & Martin | Reed Smith | Atlanta | Jan-25 |
| Kurt Lyn | Kirkland & Ellis | Greenber Traurig | Austin, Texas | Jan-25 |
| Daniel Cowan | Ropes & Gray | Mintz Levin | Boston | Jan-25 |
| Pierre-Olivier Mahieu | A&O Shearman | Jones Day | Brussels | Jan-25 |
| Alexander Schwartz | Kirkland & Ellis | Sheppard Mullin | Chicago | Jan-25 |
| Mark A. Harris | Winston & Strawn | Harris Corporate Law | Chicago | Jan-25 |
| Thomas Matteson | Kirkland & Ellis | Haynes & Boon | Dallas, Texas | Jan-25 |
| Srikant C V | Khaitan & Co | Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co | Delhi | Jan-25 |
| Dr Oliver Duys LL.M | Orrick | Herbert Smith Freehills | Dusseldorf | Jan-25 |
| Nicolas Capelli | Kramer Levin | Morgan Lewis | France | Jan-25 |
| Michiel Huizinga | A&O Shearman | Jones Day | Frankfurt | Jan-25 |
| Dr. Maximilian Menges | EY | Hogan Lovells | Hamburg | Jan-25 |
| Dr. Jan Philipp Feigen | EY | Hogan Lovells | Hamburg | Jan-25 |
| Xiaoxi Lin | Linklaters | Morrison Foerster | Hong Kong | Jan-25 |
| Daniel Wayte | Orrick | Akin | London | Jan-25 |
| Bruce Embley | Skadden | Clifford Chance | London | Jan-25 |
| James Grimwood | Goodwin Procter | Debevoise & Plimpton | London | Jan-25 |
| Geoff O’Dea | Goodwin Procter | Fried Frank | London | Jan-25 |
| Hugh O’Sullivan | Kirkland & Ellis | Goodwin | London | Jan-25 |
| Jamal Tuhin | Dechert | Norton Rose Fulbright | London | Jan-25 |
| Victoria Jew | Pinsent Masons | Squire Patton Bohs | Manchester | Jan-25 |
| Achille Calio Marincola | Legance | Pavia e Ansaldo | Milan | Jan-25 |
| Florian Hirschmann | Goodwin | Ashurst | Munich | Jan-25 |
| Dr. Philipp Strümpell | EY | Hogan Lovells | Munich | Jan-25 |
| David Huthmacher | Hogan Lovells | Willkie Farr & Gallagher | Munich | Jan-25 |
| David Grimes | McDermott | Alston & Bird | New York | Jan-25 |
| Stephen Koval | Arnold & Porter | Blank Rome | New York | Jan-25 |
| Zachary Jacobs | Kramer Levin | Haynes & Boone | New York | Jan-25 |
| David Harris | Paul Weiss | Ropes & Gray | New York | Jan-25 |
| Patrick Greeley | Fried Frank | Sidley Austin | New York | Jan-25 |
| Patrick Rowe | McDermott | Alston & Bird | New York | Jan-25 |
| Bernard Ayache | Ayache Salama | Mayer Brown | Paris | Jan-25 |
| Alexandre Omaggio | Kramer Levin | Morgan Lewis | Paris | Jan-25 |
| Alexandra Lewis | Goodwin Procter | KHP | San Francisco | Jan-25 |
| Pat Franke | Lane Powell | Ballard Spahr | Seattle | Jan-25 |
| Timothy Goh | Dechert | Hogan Lovells | Singapore | Jan-25 |
| Siew Kam Boon | Dechert | Hogan Lovells | Singapore | Jan-25 |
| Abhishek Krishnan | Goodwin Procter | Hillhouse Investment | Singapore | Jan-25 |
| Scott Jalowayski | Gibson Dunn | Morrison Foerster | Singapore | Jan-25 |
| James Wood | Hogan Lovells | Jones Day | Sydney | Jan-25 |
| Matt Goulding | Freshfields | Latham & Watkins | Boston | Feb-25 |
| Adam G. Arnett | Mayer Brown | Norton Rose Fulbright | Chicago | Feb-25 |
| John-Paul Haskins | Greenberg Traurig | Perkins Coie | Dallas | Feb-25 |
| Stuart J. Chasanoff | Dorsey & Whitney | Vedder Price | Dallas | Feb-25 |
| Shinong Wang | Kirkland & Ellis | EQT | Hong Kong | Feb-25 |
| Emma Ghaffari | Skadden | Clifford Chance | London | Feb-25 |
| Patirck Scott | KKR | Clifford Chance | London | Feb-25 |
| Nicholas Tomlinson | Gibson Dunn | Dechert | London | Feb-25 |
| Alex McCarney | Skadden | Eversheds Sutherland | London | Feb-25 |
| Philip Watkins | Withers Worldwide | Fieldfisher | London | Feb-25 |
| James Brownstein | O’Melveny & Myers | Kirkland & Ellis | Los Angeles | Feb-25 |
| Enrique Conde | Holland & Knight | Sidley Austin | Miami | Feb-25 |
| Alessandro Seganfreddo | White & Case | Hogan Lovells | Milan | Feb-25 |
| Michael Malfetonne | Locke Lord | Sheppard Mullin Richter & Hampton | New York | Feb-25 |
| Andrew Colosimo | Fried Frank | Sidley Austin | New York | Feb-25 |
| Alex Kaufman | Paul Hastings | Mintz Levin | Palo Alto | Feb-25 |
| Gwenaël Kropfinger | Addleshaw Goddard | Proskauer | Paris | Feb-25 |
| Brian Burke | Cooley LLP | DLA Piper | Reston, Virginia | Feb-25 |
| Amit Singh | Dentons | Mintz Levin | San Diego | Feb-25 |
| Charles Bogle | Hogan Lovells | Jones Day | Sydney | Feb-25 |
| Evita Ferreira | Goodmans | Brookfield | Toronto | Feb-25 |
| Kemal Hawa | Greenberg Traurig | Kirkland & Ellis | Washington | Feb-25 |
| Chris Turek | Greenberg Traurig | Kirkland & Ellis | Washington | Feb-25 |
| Alan M. Noskow | King & Spalding | Paul Hastings | Washington | Feb-25 |
| Andrew Walker | DLA Piper | Bestige Holdings | Austin, Texas | Mar-25 |
| Neil Vohra | Kirkland & Ellis | DLA Piper | Chicago | Mar-25 |
| Amar Ovinca | Ice Miller | Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP | Chicago | Mar-25 |
| Annie Lewis | Blackstone | Clifford Chance | London | Mar-25 |
| Sylvain Dhennin | Hogan Lovells | Proskauer | London | Mar-25 |
| Jeremy Dennison | Livingbridge | Travers Smith | London | Mar-25 |
| Frances Dales | Kirkland & Ellis | Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP | Los Angeles | Mar-25 |
| Gregory C. Cage | Goodwin | Massumi + Consoli | New York | Mar-25 |
| Benjamin Kozinn | Schulte Roth & Zabel | McDermott Will & Emery | New York | Mar-25 |
| Andrew Alin | Wilmer Hale | Simpson Thacher & Bartlett | New York | Mar-25 |
| Erwan Heurtel | Mayer Brown | Gowling WLG | Paris | Mar-25 |
| Jad Slim | White & Case | Addleshaw Goddard | Riyadh | Mar-25 |
| Patrick J. Sandor | Wilkie Farr | Goodwin | San Francisco | Mar-25 |
| Henrik Nobel | Advokatfirman Lindahl | Bird & Bird | Stockholm | Mar-25 |
| Fancisco Tassi | Nacre Capital | Zang, Bergel & Viñes | Argentina | Apr-25 |
| Andrew Wool | Polsinelli | Kirkland & Ellis | Chicago | Apr-25 |
| Victor Chen | Goodwin | Loeb & Loeb | Hong Kong | Apr-25 |
| Joseph Dennis | Herbert Smith Freehills | Dechert | London | Apr-25 |
| Simon Saitowitz | Ropes & Gray | Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP | London | Apr-25 |
| George Kazakov | White & Case | Paul Hastings | London to Abu Dhabi | Apr-25 |
| Deepak Nanda | Gibson Dunn | Sidley Austin | Los Angeles | Apr-25 |
| Stanislav Kalminsky | Goodwin | Winston & Strawn | Los Angeles | Apr-25 |
| Michael Amalfe | Kirkland & Ellis | Goodwin | New York | Apr-25 |
| James Lee | Proskauer | Morrison Foerster | New York | Apr-25 |
| David Perkins | Cravath Swaine & Moore LLP | Sidley Austin | New York | Apr-25 |
| Tom Pollard | Ward Hadaway | Hill Dickinson | Newcastle | Apr-25 |
| Xavier Petet | White & Case | Paul Hastings | Paris | Apr-25 |
| Daniel Lopez | Orrick | Wilkie Farr | San Francisco | Apr-25 |
| Brendan Wykes | Kain Lawyers | Mills Oakley | Sydney | Apr-25 |
| Pieter Paul Terpstra | DLA Piper | Eversheds Sutherland | Amsterdam | May-25 |
| Craig Samuel | Hartman, Simons & Wood | Carlton Fields | Atlanta | May-25 |
| Jason P. Wagenmaker | Mayer Brown | Akin Gump | Chicago | May-25 |
| Brian Robertson | McGuireWoods | Barnes & Thornburg LLP | Dallas | May-25 |
| Stefan Mrozinski | White & Case | Paul Hastings | Dubai | May-25 |
| John Small | Willis Towers Watson | Marsh | Dublin | May-25 |
| Sebastian Weller | ADVANT Beiten | Bird & Bird | Düsseldorf | May-25 |
| Richard Perks | Freshfields | Ropes & Gray | Hong Kong | May-25 |
| George Knighton | Skadden | A&O Shearman | London | May-25 |
| Daniel Weston | CMS | McDermott Will & Emery | London | May-25 |
| Jamie Burgess | CMS | McDermott Will & Emery | London | May-25 |
| Damon Fisher | Kirkland & Ellis | Lane 42 | Los Angeles | May-25 |
| Giorgio Fantacchiotti | Linklaters | FIVERS Studio Legale e Tributario | Milan | May-25 |
| Fabio Niccoli | Ashurst | LMS Studio Legale | Milan | May-25 |
| Jim McKnight | Mintz Levin | Spiro Harrison & Nelson LLC | New Jersey | May-25 |
| David Kreisler | DLA Piper | Mayer Brown | New York | May-25 |
| Michael Zaino | Egan Nelson | Ice Miller | New York | May-25 |
| Amanda Matello | Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan | Cassels Brock & Blackwell | Ontario | May-25 |
| Adam Bloom | Wilson Sonsini | Cooley | Palo Alto | May-25 |
| Anne Croteau | McGuireWoods | Morning Star Law Group | Raleigh, North Carolina | May-25 |
| Helen Garner | Cripps | Birketts | Sevenoaks | May-25 |
| Salim Somjee | Cripps | Birketts | Sevenoaks | May-25 |
| James Nguyen | Allens | Squire Patton Boggs | Sydney | May-25 |
| Niro Ananda | Clayton Utz | King & Wood | Sydney | May-25 |
| Adam Levin | Dechert | Adam Levin Advisors | Tel Aviv | May-25 |
| Marcin Schulz | Linklaters | Addleshaw Goddard | Warsaw | May-25 |
| Rafal Stroinski | B2RLaw | Fieldfisher Poland | Warsaw | May-25 |
| Christopher Hagan | Perkins Coie | Dorsey & Whitney | Washington | May-25 |
This article explores the drivers behind recent lateral partner hires in the London legal market with a lens on Private Equity and why the high rate of partner hires in this space seems set to continue. In addition, a case study of one UK firm’s positioning in the market highlights how London-headquartered firms can remain competitive in the face of aggressive US expansion.
In recent years, lateral moves within the private equity space have stimulated partner hires and stoked competition between firms, and we have seen record-breaking numbers of partners transition to a new home. January and February this year were no exception, with this period seeing the greatest number of partner moves in the London legal market since at least 2006. Private Equity continues to act as a catalyst, with 22 of the 155 partners moving within this time frame, counting Private Equity houses among their key clients.
US firms have made significant inroads into the London legal market by leveraging connections with their Private Equity clients. As a result, seventy percent of the Legal 500’s ranked firms for high-value Private Equity deals are now US firms based in London. However, the flow of private capital-focused partners from US to UK firms was reversed in January and February. Besides Fladgate, which hired a nine-partner team from disintegrating firm Memery Crystal, Clifford Chance emerged as the most acquisitive team with six partner hires in the first two months of the year, including significant acquisitions from elite US firms.
Four of these lawyers set to call the Magic Circle law firm home are Private Equity focused. Bruce Embley and Emma Ghaffari joined from Skadden, whilst Patrick Scott and Angharad Lewis left in-house roles at US private equity firms KKR and Blackstone, respectively. This reverse of broader market trends also corresponds with a change in the narrative for Clifford Chance’s fortunes regarding Private Equity lateral hires. The firm lost London Private Equity head Chris Sullivan, a Clifford Chance lifer, to Paul Weiss in December 2023. This announcement was shortly followed by his likely candidate for succession, Oliver Marcuse. In the face of this, Bruce Embley joining along with Emma Ghaffari is a particularly notable victory for Clifford Chance. Bruce was previously co-head of Freshfields’ Global M&A practice before decamping to Skadden in 2020.
According to Spencer Baylin, Clifford Chance’s new head of Private Equity, one of the key elements differentiating Clifford Chance from US firms is its full-service offering throughout the region, alongside a more economical business model. Baylin quoted in June last year: “There is no correlation between how much you pay partners and the service they provide to clients. What’s important to me is providing excellent service to clients, which means full service to clients when they need it, for value for money, at the right quality.” A coherent strategy and a commitment to functional and regional strengths backed up by targeted lateral hires is a formula that has arguably allowed Clifford Chance to prosper in a hotly contested market. Another recent accomplishment was Clifford Chance winning a place on the private capital panel for EQT last year. The firm is the only remaining UK law firm ranked tier 1 by Legal 500 for high-value private equity deals in London for 2025.
The battle for dominance in London is far from decided, as several factors point towards continued competition and shifting partnerships. As Private Equity portfolio companies continue to grow amidst increased scrutiny from regulators and growing deal flow, they are continuing to build out their in-house legal teams, adding more pressure on talent in the sector. At the same time, Hervé Ekué, managing partner of A&O Shearman, opined this month that “we haven’t reached the top” with regards to pay in the London legal market, indicating continued demand for the correct skill set – and high remuneration packages could further entice lawyers into making a move.
The private equity market performed well in 2024, and key actors appear cautiously optimistic about 2025, underpinning demand for relevant legal skills. Amsterdam-headquartered CVC saw €830 million after-tax profits, a 36% rise on last year. CVC predicts exits or realisations through trade sales, flotations, and other transactions will materialise “at or slightly above” the €13.1 billion realised in 2024. More bullish outlooks can be seen elsewhere, as in January, Nordic Capital announced the final close of the Nordic Capital Evolution II fund at €2 billion after an original target of €1.4 billion. Off the back of this success, the firm is now aiming for a flagship fund at €10 billion. Apollo and Advent, Private Equity houses with a significant presence in London, are both aiming to raise $25 billion for their new flagship vehicles.
One alleviating factor in this high-stakes talent contest may be that junior lawyers have paid attention to the continued success of the private equity sector and the high salaries on offer. There has been a notable decline in the interest of equity capital markets pathways at law firms and a corresponding increase in demand for private equity seats. According to the Financial Times, as reported by partners, one of the most sought-after areas of Clifford Chance for young solicitors is now Private Equity. Of course, it will take some time for the pipeline of new talent to impact at the partner level, leaving a finite pool to draw from.
As the latest figures for law firm partner moves demonstrate, demand and competition for the best talent remains high. Factors such as increased demand from in-house private equity teams exacerbate the issue, though the talent pool may adjust in years to come. In the near term, the continued strength of the private equity market and bullish hiring strategies of US law firms look set to drive lateral partner hires. However, the narrative of US dominance within the Private Equity sector has been challenged, and Clifford Chance may provide a model for other firms headquartered in London to gain ground. Considering the recent high turnover, the number of teams that have yet to move has diminished, increasing the challenge for those looking to acquire. The private equity market is undoubtedly one to watch when it comes to understanding the future of the London legal industry.
We look forward to further developments in the next eight months.
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