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.
Financials:
Kennedys breaches £400m revenue barrier as it eyes becoming a billion-dollar law firm
International specialist insurance firm Kennedys has posted record revenue of £428m, a 13% jump on last year’s results.
CMS boosts NQ solicitor pay in London to £120k
CMS has increased the salaries of its newly qualified (NQ) lawyers in London to £120,000, with regional offices and those in Scotland also seeing salary rises.
Harbottle pushes financials to new heights with revenue and PEP growth
The firm saw turnover rise by 3.7% during the 2024-25 financial year to reach £53.8m, up from last year’s £51.9m. PEP, meanwhile, rose 2% to £756,000 from the 2023-24 figure of £741,000.
Diversity & Inclusion:
Is Pride Month In the Room? Why Brands Are Quietly Abandoning LGBTQ Community This Year
The proposed 2025 federal budget includes $2.67 billion in cuts to programs that directly benefit LGBTQ+ people. Among the most concerning changes are the defunding of gender-affirming healthcare research, significant reductions in HIV/AIDS educational initiatives, the consolidation of HOPWA housing support, the elimination of over 270 LGBTQ+ health research grants, and the termination of justice programs addressing hate crimes.
Standing as a Defense to Claims Challenging Private Employers’ DEI Programs
“In this article, we examine the law of standing and cases addressing how standing principles apply in cases challenging DEI initiatives by private employers.”
Corporate Legal Departments Reevaluate Diversity Tracking Amid Rising Concerns
General Counsels (GCs) are taking a closer look at the legal and reputational risks tied to tracking diversity data, prompting a reassessment of existing practices and a careful balancing of the potential advantages against the associated challenges.
Office Openings & Closing:
Seyfarth Shaw Closes Shanghai Office Amid Strategic Restructuring Efforts
Seyfarth Shaw, an employment-focused law firm, has announced the closing of its Shanghai office, which launched in 2013.
Mergers & Alliances:
Norton Rose Fulbright is to merge its Australian and EMEA financial operations following partner approval, aiming to boost hiring power and align with recent global leadership changes.
Chilean tax boutique Matthei has joined Ontier’s local office, bringing a 12-person team led by Roland and Roger Matthei. The move comes amid rising demand for specialized tax advice in the region.
Crowell merges with life sciences boutique, opens Boston office
Crowell & Moring has merged with dealmaking boutique Faber Daeufer & Itrato, significantly boosting its life sciences and emerging companies capabilities.
HSF’s merger with Kramer Levin goes live
The merger of Anglo-Australian law firm Herbert Smith Freehills and US outfit Kramer Levin was finalised yesterday (1 June), in a landmark tie-up that has created a top 20 global firm by revenue.
Partnering with Legora to enhance legal services through AI innovation
Taylor Wessing has announced a partnership with Legora, the collaborative AI for lawyers, as part of its ongoing commitment to innovation and delivering outstanding client service.
Thai, Korean law firms forge strategic alliance in regional first
Thai law firm Kudun and Partners (KAP) and South Korean firm Jipyong have formed a landmark strategic alliance, marking the first full-scale legal collaboration between firms from Thailand and South Korea.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Simpson Thacher Boosts Secondaries Capabilities With London Partner Hire
Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP has announced that Joanne (“Jo”) Mak will be joining the firm as a partner in its London office. She joins from Kirkland & Ellis LLP, where she also served as a partner.
Addleshaw Goddard strengthens Finance Disputes team with high-profile hire
James Moss, former general counsel at the Information Commissioner’s Office, has joined Addleshaw Goddard from Bird & Bird to bolster the firm’s technology practice.
Reed Smith appoints leading financial crime partner in London
Reed Smith today announces the hire of Richard Kovalevsky KC as a partner in its Global Commercial Disputes Group and London office. Kovalevsky joins from Cohen & Gresser.
CM Murray hires employment disputes partner from Edwin Coe in London
UK employment and regulatory law specialist CM Murray has hired employment lawyer Emma Sangeelee from Edwin Coe to bolster its employment disputes practice.
A&L Goodbody appoints Kevin Murphy to lead Northern Ireland real estate team
A&L Goodbody has appointed Kevin Murphy as partner and head of its real estate department in Belfast. He joins from TLT.
The Americas
Spanish firm Ecija has announced the addition of Aldo Cornejo as a partner in its corporate and M&A practice in Lima. Cornejo joins after five years as a partner at Ontier.
Hernández & Cía hires new partner
Gerardo Guzmán, former director of Arbe Abogados, will join Hernández & Cía. as a partner as of June 1.
FisherBroyles Grows International Presence, Adds Three Attorneys in Mexico
Jesús García-Moncada, Rodrigo García-Moncada and Mario Facio Salazar Join Firm’s Mexico City Office. The trio join from law+dgtal.
US boutique DEMC hires luxury law partner from Holland & Knight
Luxury and brand lawyer Danielle Garno has joined US boutique law firm Daniel, Ebeling, Maccia & Cohen from Holland & Knight.
APAC
Malaysia’s Rahmat Lim strengthens disputes practice with new partner
Malaysian law firm Rahmat Lim & Partners has hired Aravind Kumarr. He joins from his own firm, Aravind.
Stephen Putnins, corporate/commercial partner, joins Sparke Helmore from Mills Oakley
Australian law firm Sparke Helmore has announced the addition of Stephen Putnins who joins from Mills Oakley.
A&O Shearman hires partner in Vietnam from local firm YKVN
Global law firm A&O Shearman has announced its recruitment of corporate/M&A expert Hai Nguyen as a partner in Ho Chi Minh City from Vietnamese law firm YKVN
Ashurst nabs Simmons partner to lead Asia employment practice
Global law firm Ashurst has appointed former Simmons & Simmons partner Clarence Ding as its new Asia head of employment, based in Singapore.
MoFo expands Tokyo team with PE hire from White & Case
U.S. law firm Morrison Foerster has strengthened its Tokyo office with the addition of M&A and private equity expert Naoya Shiota, who joins as a partner from rival White & Case.
HSF’s Tony Damian to co-lead Ashurst’s M&A group in Australia
Tony Damian has joined Ashurst to co-lead its M&A team in Australia, making the jump from Herbert Smith Freehills.
Tom Ara has left law firm DLA Piper for Weil, Gotshal & Manges’ L.A.-based entertainment, sports and media practice.
MoFo makes another Asia hire in a week, adds Gibson Dunn funds lawyer
MoFo hires the addition of private funds specialist Xuanyi Liu, who joins as a partner in Singapore from Gibson Dunn & Crutcher.
Jones Day partner moves to Pillsbury
Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman has hired energy and real estate finance transactions expert Katsumi Shirai as a partner in Tokyo from Jones Day.
EMEA
Orrick Loses Legal Talent to Rivals in Europe
Among those leaving are energy and infrastructure partner Foucaud Jaulin, who has joined CMS in France.
Akin Grows Investment Management Practice in Abu Dhabi with Addition of Skye Smith
Akin announced today that Skye Smith has joined the firm as a partner in its investment management practice. Smith joins from DLA Piper.
Taylor Wessing welcomes the arrival of partners Rob Hendriks and Michiel Boer who join from Simmons & Simmons.
DayOne Legal + Tax adds new Tax Partner
Peter Van Dijk joins DayOne Legal + Tax from Buren N.V.
In-House
New GC of Ruger Will Help Firearms Maker Resolve Suits Over King Soopers Shooting Spree
Sarah Colbert is taking the legal reins from 23-year company veteran Kevin Reid Sr.
Britvic GC rejoins Ocado to lead legal team
Mollie Stoker, who previously held the role of Deputy General Counsel at Ocado, will rejoin the company after a tenure at Britvic.
Music streaming giant Spotify names interim GC as permanent legal head
Spotify has appointed interim general counsel Kevan Choset to the GC role full time after he stepped up to replace Eve Konstan back in January.
InfraRed Capital Partners Ltd hires new Chief operating officer
James Abbott joins from John Laing where he was General Counsel.
Canada Life UK hires new Senior Legal Counsel
Emma Waters joins Canada Life UK as Senior Legal Counsel from Macfarlanes where she was a
Team Moves
Dechert adds four-lawyer Orrick finance team in London
Partners Sushila Nayak and James Jirtle have joined Dechert from Orrick.
Promotions & Appointments:
CMS appoints new LatAm chair and adds antitrust head in Mexico
International firm CMS has named Juan Carlos Escudero, former managing partner of its Highly Recommended Peruvian office CMS Grau, as the new chair of its Latin America operations. The appointment comes just a day before the firm also brought on a former of counsel from Elite firm Nader, Hayaux & Goebel to lead its antitrust practice in Mexico.
Linklaters Appoints George Casey as Chairman of the Americas
Linklaters is delighted to announce the appointment of George Casey as Chairman of the Americas.
Carney appoints diplomatic heavyweight Marc-André Blanchard to steer PMO
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced on Sunday that Marc-André Blanchard, an experienced diplomat and legal expert, will become his permanent chief of staff beginning in July.
Lander & Rogers elevates 44 senior lawyers in this year’s batch of promotions
Lander & Rogers shared that its new partners are the following:
Travers Smith promote nine to Partner
Names include James Barnard, Adam Burk, Jaryd Davidson, Elissavet Grout, Nick Glynn, Tom Margesson, Michael O’Brien Kelly, Richard Offord and Ella Sharpley.
Linklaters appoints Andrew Roberts as Chief Communications & Corporate Affairs Officer
Linklaters today announces the appointment of Andrew Roberts as Chief Communications & Corporate Affairs Officer. He joins from fashion and luxury goods company Burberry Group Plc.
The partners include:
Emily Coghlan, Michael D’Agostino, Gabby Herron-Cartwright, Tamanna Islam, Geoff Kerrigan, Madeleine Miller, Eunice Park, Li-Lian Yeo
Six join Moray & Agnew’s partnership in promotions round
The firm’s new partners are Alannah Dewing, Amanda Danti, Emma Petrie, Shaun Jackson, Erin Woodward and Julie Ngan.
DLA Piper confirms appointment of David Cameron as consultant
In his new role, the firm says Cameron will provide strategic guidance, particularly around geopolitical risk, leveraging his decades of experience in international affairs.
Technology & Innovation:
Taylor Wessing Joins Growing List of Law Firms Adopting Swedish AI Platform Firmwide
Taylor Wessing has rolled out the AI platform developed by Swedish company Legora across the firm, following a successful pilot involving more than 80 lawyers across multiple offices. The move aligns Taylor Wessing with other major firms—such as Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton, Goodwin Procter, Addleshaw Goddard, and Bird & Bird—that have also adopted the technology.
According to Holding Redlich, the rapid evolution of AI, cybersecurity, and privacy presents emerging legal risks for organizations, making it clear that a ‘set and forget’ approach is no longer viable.
Market Commentary:
Skadden Mulls Non-Equity Tier as Partner Pay Pressure Mounts
Skadden is considering adding a tier of salaried “partners” at the Wall Street law firm, following similar moves by several of its rivals.
Ropes & Gray Explores Nonequity Partnership Tier
Ropes & Gray, currently the world’s 8th largest law firm, is contemplating the introduction of a nonequity partner tier.
Cripps and Michelmores in tie-up talks
Southern England law firms Cripps and Michelmores are in the very early stages of merger talks which, if successful, would create a new legal firm with an annual revenue of around £100 million.
Financials:
Profits Swelled at Hughes Hubbard in 2024, With PEP Up 24%
Hughes Hubbard & Reed saw modest revenue growth in 2024, while profits per equity partner surged by 24.1%, driven by robust demand in litigation, aviation finance, and corporate transactions.
Starting law firm associate pay has been flat since 2023, NALP reports
The median base salary for first-year associates at U.S. law firms remained unchanged over the past two years, holding steady at $200,000, according to the National Association for Law Placement (NALP). This is despite some large firms increasing starting pay to $225,000. The figure reflects data from NALP’s biennial U.S. Associate Salary Survey, last conducted in January 2023 and again in January 2025.
Mattos Filho releases integrated report with 2024 results
Mattos Filho has published the second edition of its integrated report, Pulso, underscoring the firm’s ongoing commitment to transparency with clients, partners, and broader society. The report highlights a robust performance in 2024, with the firm achieving a 14% year-on-year revenue increase, reaching BRL 1.7 billion.
Diversity & Inclusion:
Gender Pay Gap Grows at Largest UK Firms
Recent gender pay gap reports from leading UK law firms—Freshfields, Linklaters, Clifford Chance, and Allen & Overy—reveal notable increases in median gender pay disparities over the past four years.
Goodwin Procter Cuts Recruiter Contract After EEOC Criticism
Goodwin Procter terminated a contract with a recruiting operation following its founder’s critical comments about the law firm’s response to a federal diversity probe.
Bar Standards Board announces about-face on diversity and inclusion proposal
The Bar Standards Board (BSB), which regulates barristers in England and Wales, has shelved a proposal to introduce a core duty requiring barristers to “act in a way that advances equality, diversity and inclusion” following claims it lacked clarity and would be unenforceable.
Office Openings & Closing:
Data Protection Commission opens new HQ in Dublin
Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan attended the official opening of the Data Protection Commission’s (DPC) new headquarters in Dublin yesterday.
Eversheds ditches Irish merger plans, and will go it alone instead
Eversheds Sutherland has decided to abandon its proposed merger with Irish law firm William Fry and will instead establish its own operations in Ireland. The firm plans to open new offices in Dublin and Belfast this September, aiming to launch with up to 20 partners as part of its international expansion strategy.
Taylor Wessing Expands into Shenzhen, Reshapes China Presence
In a move to strengthen its presence in China’s high-tech sector, Taylor Wessing will open a new office in Shenzhen by 2026.
KNM & Partners Expands Regional Presence with New Chandigarh Office
KNM & Partners has opened a new office in Chandigarh, marking a significant step in its regional expansion. The move aims to strengthen the firm’s legal service footprint across Punjab and Haryana.
Simmons & Simmons officially opens Riyadh office with disputes partner at helm
Simmons & Simmons has officially launched its Riyadh office, marking its expansion into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The office will be led by disputes partner Amer Al Amr, who brings over 25 years of legal experience in the country. First announced in January 2024, the office is now fully operational.
Mergers & Alliances:
Wolters Kluwer to acquire global legal software provider Brightflag
Wolters Kluwer Legal & Regulatory has announced its agreement to acquire Brightflag, a cloud-based provider of AI-powered legal spend and matter management software, for approximately €425 million in cash.
Pérez-Llorca furthers LatAm ambitions with landmark Colombia merger
Spanish law firm Pérez-Llorca is set to enter the Colombian legal market through a merger with leading local firm Gómez-Pinzón, marking the first such union between a top-tier Colombian firm and an Ibero-American counterpart.
Thomson Geer to nab Ashurst’s Canberra office in July
Ashurst has announced that its Canberra office will officially join Thomson Geer in early July 2025, marking a significant strategic move for both firms.
CMS establishes presence in Indian market with IndusLaw alliance
Global legal powerhouse CMS has announced that Indian law firm IndusLaw will join its network.
HSF, Kramer Levin complete combination into Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer
Herbert Smith Freehills and Kramer Levin have completed their combination into Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer as of 1 June.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Addleshaw Goddard strengthens Finance Disputes team with high-profile hire
International law firm Addleshaw Goddard has appointed experienced financial services disputes specialist James Southworth as a Partner in its Finance Disputes team. James joins from Eversheds.
Denise Hunt appointed to Northern Ireland Social Care Council
Barrister Denise Hunt BEM has been named a non-executive member of the Northern Ireland Social Care Council (NISCC).
Pillsbury adds Corporate Tech Partner Sarah Melaney
Pillsbury has recruited Sarah Melaney to join its London office. She joins from Withers.
Employment partner appointment at MFG Solicitors
Tim is a Partner within the nationally recognised Employment Team at mfg Solicitors LLP. He joined the firm after more than 20 years at George Green LLP.
Pinsent Masons hopes to bolster firm’s Aberdeen offering with new hires
Energy sector specialist Chris Sawyer has joined the firm’s corporate team from EnQuest while former Burness Paull director Gillian Harrington joins as a partner to lead the employment team.
Cadwalader strengthens London team with Crowley
Cadwalader has welcomed top infrastructure lawyer Rebecca Crowley as a partner in its London office. She joins from Latham and Watkins.
Shakespeare Martineau strengthens regulatory offering with partner hire
Shakespeare Martineau has hired Kamal Chauhan who joins the firm from Knights.
The Americas
EY legal heavyweight Monica Gogna leads team to Squire Patton Boggs
EY legal partner Monica Gogna is leading a five-lawyer team to join US law firm Squire Patton Boggs.
Global law firm Clifford Chance has bolstered its U.S. Funds & Investment Management practice with the addition of partner Charles (Chase) B. Tanenbaum, who joins from Kirkland & Ellis.
Simpson Picks Up Partners From Cravath, Kirkland and White & Case in Lateral Spree
Simpson Thacher & Bartlett has announced the addition of four new partners over the past week, Among them is Jana Hymowitz, an executive compensation partner who joins from Cravath, Swaine & Moore in New York.The firm also welcomed Anat Holtzman, a private funds partner from global investment firm Carlyle in Washington, D.C.; Fern Han, a finance partner focused on project, energy, and infrastructure transactions, from White & Case in Houston; and John Ilardo, a banking and credit partner from Kirkland & Ellis in Boston.
Gibson Dunn is pleased to announce that Andrew W. Cheng has rejoined the firm’s Los Angeles office as a partner in the Business Restructuring and Reorganization Practice Group and the Liability Management and Special Situations Practice Group. He joins after three years at Goodwin.
Winston & Strawn Welcomes Michael Kimberly as Co-Chair of the Appellate & Critical Motions Practice
Winston & Strawn LLP has announced that Michael Kimberly has joined its Washington, D.C. office as co-chair of the Appellate & Critical Motions Practice. He arrives from McDermott Will & Emery.
Leading M&A Lawyers Graham Robinson, Laura Knoll and Chadé Severin Join Kirkland & Ellis
Kirkland & Ellis has announced the addition of leading M&A attorneys Graham Robinson, Laura Knoll, and Chadé Severin as partners. The trio, who specialize in public company M&A with a strong focus on the biotechnology sector, join the firm from Skadden.
Texas Lawyer: O’Melveny Expands Energy Team in Houston With Bradley Practice Co-Chair
O’Melveny has announced that prominent Texas trial lawyer Meghan McElvy has joined the firm’s Houston office as a partner in its General Litigation Practice Group and Energy Industry Group. She joins from Bradley Arant Boult Cummings.
Freshfields Adds Silicon Valley M&A Partner From Debevoise
Freshfields has hired former Debevoise & Plimpton partner Aly Love as co-head of its U.S. Tech & Life Sciences M&A practice. She will be based in the firm’s Bay Area offices.
Morris Manning Exits Continue as Health Care Duo Jumps to Bradley Arant in Atlanta
Partners Michele Madison and George Reinhardt are the latest additions to Bradley’s two-year-old Atlanta office.
US boutique DEMC hires luxury law partner from Holland & Knight
Danielle Garno moves to sports and entertainment firm Daniel, Ebeling, Maccia & Cohen from Holland & Knight.
APAC
Addisons adds Brigid Clark as employment and workplace relations partner
Addisons, a Sydney-based full-service commercial law firm, has announced the appointment of Brigid Clark as a partner in its employment and workplace relations practice. She joins from Macpherson Kelley.
Penningtons adds banking expert from WongPartnership
UK law firm Penningtons Manches Cooper has further expanded its Singapore office with the hire of banking and finance partner Zhi Chao Chor from WongPartnership.
Anand Kumar Joins ADP Law Offices as Partner
Anand Kumar has joined ADP Law Offices as a partner, reflecting the firm’s strategic focus on deepening its expertise in corporate finance and regulatory advisory. He joins from Deloitte.
Leading Vietnamese lawyer Hai Nguyen joins A&O Shearman
A&O Shearman is pleased to announce the appointment of Hai Nguyen. Nguyen joins from YKVN.
EMEA
Greenberg Traurig and Simmons & Simmons make key partner hires in Saudi Arabia
Greenberg Traurig has hired Dr. Yazid AlMasoud as a partner in Riyadh from Z&Co., strengthening its public policy and regulatory offering. Simmons & Simmons has added Umera Ali as a partner from Dentons, where she led the Saudi banking practice.
Al Tamimi taps Clyde & Co for tax partner
Al Tamimi & Company has bolstered its tax practice in Dubai with the hire of Rachel Fox from Clyde & Co, where she led the Middle East tax team.
In-House
Brandon Barkhuff named as new NV Energy president and CEO
NV Energy announced that Brandon Barkhuff will succeed Cannon as the new president and CEO of the utility. Before stepping into the top executive role, Barkhuff served as general counsel.
Nil Loy Joins Feed the Children
Feed the Children has announced the appointment of Nil Loy as its new Chief Legal OfficerShe joins from Population Services International and HealthX Partners Incorporated, where she most recently served as General Counsel.
US nuclear power innovator Terrestrial Energy hires GC ahead of public listing
US nuclear reactor business Terrestrial Energy has hired Brian Romanzo as general counsel ahead of its transition to become a publicly-listed company.
Children’s book publishing giant Scholastic appoints first new GC in 17 years
The world’s largest children’s book publisher and distributor Scholastic has promoted Chris Lick to general counsel, replacing Andrew Hedden who is retiring from the role.
Team Moves
Kirkland & Ellis has announced the addition of 13 litigation partners, led by nationally recognized product liability and mass tort litigator Kristen Fournier, prominent trial lawyers Kim Bueno and Morty Dubin, and environmental and mass tort specialist John Ewald. They join from King & Spalding, along with nine additional partners across New York, Austin, Houston, and Los Angeles.
Paul Hastings Adds Preeminent 5-Partner Real Estate Team in Los Angeles
Paul Hastings has further strengthened its elite real estate practice with the addition of partners DJ Moore, Beth Gordie, Winston Stromberg, Benjamin Hanelin, and Lauren Paull in Los Angeles. The group joins from Latham & Watkins.
Pierson Ferdinand Continues Rapid Growth with Four Partner Appointments
PierFerd continues its strategic expansion with the addition of several experienced attorneys across key U.S. markets. Priscilla O. Arthus joins the firm’s Houston office from Polsinelli. In Florida, Nicole Llopis comes aboard from Wilson Elser Moskowitz Edelman & Dicker LLP. Thomas O’Grady joins as a Partner in Princeton, New Jersey from Goldberg Segalla LLP and Porzio, Bromberg & Newman. Additionally, Tom C. Vincent II strengthens the firm’s Cyber, Privacy & Technology and Banking and Financial Services practices, joining from full-service firm GableGotwals.
Pinsents snaps up IP team from Deloitte Legal
Pinsent Masons has strengthened it’s IP practice with the hire of a NINE strong team from Deloitte Legal in London; 3 partners, 1 legal director and 5 associates.
Promotions & Appointments:
K&L Gates Announces New Leadership Team
The firm has appointed Stacy Ackermann as its new Global Managing Partner and Rick Giovannelli as Co-Chair of the Management Committee.
Withers names private client disputes partner as new chair
Paul Hewitt to succeed Justine Markovitz at helm of private client powerhouse on 1 July 2025.
Technology & Innovation:
364,000 Impacted by Data Breach at LexisNexis Risk Solutions
LexisNexis Risk Solutions has disclosed a significant data breach affecting over 364,000 individuals. The breach occurred on December 25, 2024, but was not detected until April 1, 2025.
Inside Garrigues’ Plans to Diversify Its Income Through Its Digital Business g-digital
The law firm has also launched its own generative AI platform, Garrigues GAIA.
Herbert Smith Freehills releases free global AI tracker
Herbert Smith Freehills (HSF), a global law firm, has launched a new free AI-powered tool designed to help clients keep track of rapidly evolving artificial intelligence policies and regulations around the world.
AI integration in the legal sector
As O’Keeffe succinctly observes, “As the technology evolves, so must we. AI will never replace lawyers, but it will change what we do, how we do it…’
Market Commentary:
Hundreds of lawyers call for UK sanctions on Israel over Gaza war
Hundreds of UK-based and qualified lawyers, including former Supreme Court justices, have urged the UK government to take stronger action to help end the conflict in Gaza. In a letter addressed to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer on Monday, 828 legal professionals called for the government to use “all available means”—including reviewing trade relations with Israel and imposing sanctions and travel bans on Israeli ministers.
UK GCs say they will keep more work in-house as cost pressures bite
More than half of UK in-house lawyers plan to reduce reliance on external counsel over the next five years, according to Thomson Reuters’ 2025 State of the UK Legal Market report. The survey reveals that 54% of in-house legal teams expect to bring more work in-house, while only 35% of law firms anticipate this shift—highlighting a potential disconnect in expectations between clients and their legal service providers.
What’s Behind Eversheds’ Growth in Europe’s Benelux Region?
A regional approach, rather than a country-specific focus, has been instrumental to Eversheds’ growth in Europe’s Benelux countries
Financials:
As Dell Hits Groove, GC’s Pay Soars 63%
Pay for Dell Technologies General Counsel Richard Rothberg ballooned last year, thanks to stock grants the maker of computer hardware awards every three years.
Shoosmiths’ revenue grew by 6 percent to £206.7 million, Linklaters also reported record-breaking results with firm revenues exceeded £2 billion for the first time, and Weightmans with income surpassing £140 million for 2023/24.
Diversity & Inclusion:
Pathetic or Pragmatic? GCs Respond as Big Law Backtracks on DEI
Some GCs expressed concerns that if law firms won’t stand up for their own DEI policies, it bodes badly for their willingness to stand up for their clients.
Dentons law firm celebrates zero per cent gender pay gap
The Australia arm of global law firm Dentons has announced that it is the first large law firm in the country to obtain a zero per cent median gender pay gap.
Trump’s FCC leader threatens to kill mergers over DEI policies
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr told Bloomberg that he’s not inclined to approve deals involving companies with pro-diversity initiatives.
Office Openings & Closing:
Cleary to shutter Frankfurt office after 34 years
Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton is set to close its Frankfurt office in November, bringing an end to its presence in Germany’s business capital after 34 years.
Bird & Bird Middle East is growing with a new office in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
UAE’s Habib Al Mulla establishes Delhi foothold
UAE-based powerhouse Habib Al Mulla & Partners has launched its fifth international office in New Delhi, signaling a strategic move to capitalize on the expanding legal services corridor between India and the Gulf amid rising bilateral trade volumes.
Ex-A&O leaders launch consultancy for PE investment in law
Two former senior partners of the legacy UK Magic Circle firm Allen & Overy have launched a consultancy focused on advising private equity investors on opportunities within the legal sector.
Mergers & Alliances:
Ashurst’s Canberra office to join Thomson Geer
Global law firmAshurst and leading Australian firm Thomson Geer have announced that Ashurst’s Canberra office will transition to Thomson Geer. The office will officially become part of Thomson Geer in early July 2025.
The team making the move includes seven partners: Rob Andersen, Mathew Baldwin, Melanie McKean, Steve McKinney, Sarah Ross-Smith, Elissa Speight, and Angela Summersby.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Leading M&A dealmaker heads back to A&O Shearman
A&O Shearman is pleased to announce that leading dealmaker George Knighton is returning to the firm from Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom (UK) LLP.
Digital disputes heavyweight James Hyde joins Addleshaw Goddard
International law firm Addleshaw Goddard has further strengthened its commercial disputes team with the appointment of James Hyde as Partner in its Leeds office. Hyde joins from Eversheds Sutherland.
Norton Rose Fulbright hires arbitration partner from Howard Kennedy in London
Norton Rose Fulbright has hired arbitration partner Duncan Bagshaw as a partner from Howard Kennedy.
A&L Goodbody recruits Clare Cashin as construction partner
A&L Goodbody has appointed Clare Cashin as a partner in its construction and engineering practice. Cashin joins from Philip Lee.
The Americas
Weil Continues Growth in Corporate Practices, Adding Real Estate Partner Jessica Pillai
Jessica joins from Kirkland & Ellis LLP, where she was a partner in the Real Estate Practice Group.
Barley Snyder Adds Employee Benefits Attorney Nikolajs Gaikis to Lancaster Office
Prior to joining Barley Snyder, Gaikis served as an Honors Program Attorney with the IRS, Office of Chief Counsel in its Litigation & Advisory division where he litigated and advised on cases across a wide range of issues in the U.S. Tax Court.
Withers adds prominent tech litigator Jessica Nall in California
Jess joins Withers from Baker McKenzie
Paul Hastings Boosts Market-Leading Global Finance Practice on West Coast
Jeffrey Senac has joined the firm as a partner in Southern California from Latham & Watkins.
Sheppard Mullin Adds Securities Litigator In San Francisco
Partner Joshua Hess Deepens Firm’s Capabilities in Northern California. Hess joins from Dechertt.
Former White House Counsel Gregory Craig Joins Foley Hoag
Foley Hoag is pleased to announce that Gregory Craig, former White House Counsel for President Barack Obama, is joining the firm’s Washington, D.C. office.
Cooley Taps Lyndsey Kruzer as Employment Partner in Boston
Lyndsey Kruzer joins Cooley’s Boston office as a partner in the firm’s labor and employment practice and global litigation department. Kruzer joins from Choate.
APAC
The additions include Jennifer Ng from Davis Polk & Wardwell, Jenny Ho, also from Davis Polk, Xu Zheng from Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom, and Weina Guan from A&O Shearman.
Tony O’Malley Joins Kain Lawyers
Tony O’Malley, the former global head of PwC Legal, has joined Kain Lawyers, a boutique transactions firm in Australia, as a non-executive director.
HK firm Howse Williams welcomes TMT partner from K&L Gates
Hong Kong law firm Howse Williams has expanded its technology, media and telecommunications offering with the hire of Paul Haswell as a partner from U.S. law firm K&L Gates.
EMEA
Bird & Bird add Energy Partner in Amsterdam
Matthijs van Leeuwen joins Bird & Bird as a new partner in our Energy & Utilities team in Amsterdam.
Baker McKenzie Bolsters German M&A Team with Key Hire from Gibson Dunn
Baker McKenzie is bolstering its German M&A and private equity practice with the addition of Jan Schubert, a former partner at Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher. Schubert will join the firm’s Frankfurt office on June 1, enhancing its global M&A and corporate transactions expertise.
Alfonso Lamadrid Joins Latham’s Powerhouse Antitrust Practice in Brussels
Latham & Watkins LLP is pleased to announce that Alfonso Lamadrid will join the Brussels office as a partner in the Antitrust & Competition Practice and a member of the Litigation & Trial Department. Lamadrid joins from Garrigues.
In-House
Starling Strengthens Leadership Team with New General Counsel
Monica Risam has been named Group General Counsel, succeeding Matt Newman. A dual-qualified US and UK attorney with deep financial-services expertise, she joins Starling from Lombard International Group, where she served as Group General Counsel and Company Secretary.
US’s second largest bookstore chain Books-A-Million hires second GC in a year
US bookstore chain Books-A-Million has rehired Catherine Hogewood as general counsel, seven years after she previously held that position. Hogewood joins from Marsh McLennan.
Dentons construction lawyer joins Drake & Scull as general counsel
Ahmed El-Bayouk has been appointed general counsel and head of legal at the company as it embarks on a new chapter following a successful restructuring. He joins from Dentons’ Dubai office.
Team Moves
Reed Smith hires A&O Shearman trio across Singapore, Hong Kong
A&O Shearman’s joint Singapore managing partner, Tim Beech, has transitioned to the US firm along with newly promoted partner Regina Lui and an associate, strengthening its global corporate trust team.
Paul Hastings adds two more White & Case partners in energy and infrastructure push
M&A lawyer Stefan Mrozinski and projects lawyer Habeeb Rahman are the latest of seven partners the firm has hired for the practice across Abu Dhabi, Paris and London since the start of last month, six of them from White & Case.
4 major partners exit Paul, Weiss after Trump deal
The departures include Karen Dunn, Jeannie Rhee, Jessica Phillips, William Isaacson.
Promotions & Appointments:
Tríona Walsh has been promoted to of counsel specialising in insurance litigation, while Ed Kelly has been promoted to associate solicitor specialising in employment litigation.
Changes to Cabinet and Other Appointments
The Prime Minister of Singapore has announced his Cabinet line-up and other appointments.
Derville Rowland joins new EU authority for anti-money laundering
Derville Rowland, deputy governor for consumer and investor protection at the Central Bank of Ireland, has been appointed to the executive board of the EU’s newly-established Anti-Money Laundering Authority.
Technology & Innovation:
Theo Ai, an AI-powered litigation prediction platform, has secured a $4.2 million seed round just six months after announcing its $2.2 million pre-seed funding in November. The round was co-led by returning backer NextView Ventures and new investor Collide Capital.
German legaltech startup Noxtua snaps $92M to develop Europe’s sovereign AI
Noxtua, a German startup previously known as Xayn, is entering the market with an ambitious goal: to develop sovereign, domain-specific legal AI tailored to meet the rigorous standards of the German legal system.
Definely enters legal AI agent race with new contract review tool
Legal tech startup Definely has launched its own agentic AI product, marking the UK-founded company’s move into one of the most competitive frontiers in the legal AI space.
AI, art and the law: new frontiers in creativity and IP
AI’s growing role in art creation and curation raises some of the industry’s most important IP issues.
House of Lords demands more protection for copyright holders against AI
The UK government has been defeated for a third time in the House of Lords as it demands increased protection for copyright-protected works used by AI models.
Market Commentary:
Former UK prime minister David Cameron in talks to join DLA Piper
The talks, first reported by the Financial Times, could see Cameron take on an advisory role at the firm focused on geopolitical risk.
Sinn Féin bill would end Irish role in sale of Israeli bonds
Legislation banning the Central Bank of Ireland from facilitating the sale of Israeli bonds across the European Union has been proposed by Sinn Féin.
UAE litigants in London Commercial Courts hits record high, overtaking US, Russia and Switzerland
The UAE has become the second most active foreign jurisdiction in London’s Commercial Courts, according to a new report, overtaking the US, Russia, and Switzerland for the first time.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
John Small joins Marsh as head of private equity, M&A and transactional risk
Lawyer John Small has joined insurance broker and risk advisor Marsh as head of private equity, M&A, and transactional risk in Ireland.
Squire Patton Boggs appoints Jason O’Donnell to lead real estate practice
Mr. O’Donnell, who joins from A&L Goodbody, brings over ten years of experience advising on complex real estate transactions both in Ireland and internationally.
BCLP adds London partners from A&O Shearman, Taylor Wessing
Lerika Le Grange, with expertise in corporate finance, leveraged and acquisition finance, and litigation funding, has joined the firm from Taylor Wessing. At the same time, Simon Letherman, the longtime leader of legacy Shearman & Sterling’s London tax practice, has transitioned from A&O Shearman.
APAC
Simpson Thacher Hires Restructuring Partner as Dechert Closes China Offices
U.S. law firm Simpson Thacher & Bartlett has hired restructuring expert Daniel Margulies as a partner in its Hong Kong office from Dechert, which shuttered its office in the Chinese city last year.
Squire Patton Boggs Hires Private Equity Lawyer in Sydney
Private capital is growing quickly in Australia. SQB have hired James Nguyen from Allens.
Former KWM and PwC Legal Leader Tony O’Malley Joins Australian Transaction Boutique
Kain Lawyers have enhanced their Board with the appointment of Tony O’Malley as an independent Non-Executive Director, adding significant global expertise in business transformation and growth.
Alexander Danne will join the firm’s partnership from law firm Gilbert+Tobin, where he founded and led the firm’s energy and infrastructure team.
Addleshaws bolsters SG office with construction disputes hire from Eldan
UK law firm Addleshaw Goddard has named construction and commercial disputes lawyer Danna Er as partner in its Singapore office, joining from Singapore construction specialist Eldan Law.
EMEA
Linklaters Secures First German Addition for Compliance Advisory Arm
The former chief compliance officer at Vitesco Technologies is joining the firm’s Munich office as European director of its global non-legal services team.
Bird & Bird hires three new partners into international Corporate Group
International law firm Bird & Bird is advancing its ambitious growth strategy by appointing Dr. Sebastian Weller, Shahin Foroughian, and Matthijs van Leeuwen as partners in its global Corporate Group. Sebastian joined the Düsseldorf office on May 1, Shahin started in Singapore on May 5, and Matthijs is set to join the Amsterdam office on May 15.
The Americas
Morgan Lewis Financial Services Duo Jumps to Sidley Austin
Partners David Monteiro and Kristin Lee have joined the firm in Dallas and New York City, respectively.
Akin Adds Real Estate Funds, Infrastructure M&A Duo from Mayer Brown in Chicago
Wendy Dodson Gallegos and Jason Wagenmaker have joined Sidley Austin as partners in respective practices.
Clifford Chance Expands Energy, Infrastructure Finance Team in Houston
Former Cheniere Energy executive joins the firm’s Houston office, bringing deep LNG and energy transition financing experience.
Polsinelli Sports Practice Group Leader Moves to Barnes & Thornburg In Nashville
Tim Browne, a seasoned attorney with a background in sports and entertainment and a former NBA Vice President, has joined Barnes & Thornburg in Nashville.
Milbank Hires Cleary Partner to Boost Latin America Practice
Adam Brenneman, a New York-based banking and finance partner, has departed Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton after nearly 20 years to begin a new chapter at Milbank.
Sheppard Mullin Adds New CIO From Cadwalader
Sheppard Mullin, an Am Law 100 firm, has appointed David Lampert as its new Chief Information Officer in New York, succeeding Britton Choi. In his new role, Lampert will lead a 90-person team responsible for information governance and records, network infrastructure, support systems, software training, project management, and data operations.
Davis Wright Adds Longtime Knobbe Martens IP Duo In Seattle
Maria Anderson and Mauricio Uribe joined Davis Wright Tremaine as intellectual property partners in Seattle, the firm announced Wednesday.
Restructuring Partner Returns to A&O Shearman From Schulte
Ned Schodek, who spent nearly two decades at Shearman & Sterling before its merger with Allen & Overy, is now returning to A&O Shearman after serving as a partner at Schulte Roth & Zabel.
Cooley Recruits Former Troutman Pepper Fintech Practice Lead in New York
James Kim spent over three years at Troutman Pepper Locke, where he led the financial technology advisory group.
Alston & Bird Corporate Debt Finance Partner Jumps to Polsinelli in Dallas
Stacie Cargill, who joined Polsinelli as a partner in Dallas in the capital markets and commercial lending practice, sees opportunity to expand her practice and the firm’s by cross-selling Polsinelli clients.
Dorsey Taps Minneapolis Banking Industry Lawyer as New Managing Partner
Minneapolis partner Peter Nelson, set to become Dorsey & Whitney’s managing partner on July 1, is a policy committee member who played a key role in integrating the firm’s Dallas and Phoenix offices.
Polsinelli Onboards Real Estate Partner From Latham & Watkins in Los Angeles
Matthew Friedrich joined the firm following nearly three years at Latham & Watkins’ Los Angeles office.
Pierson Ferdinand Launches Latin America Practice
The practice will be headed by Miami-based arbitration partner Yine Rodríguez Pérez, one of over 130 attorneys who departed FisherBroyles to establish the new firm.
In-House
Johns Hopkins Hires Former White House Counsel for Biden as GC
Johns Hopkins University has appointed former White House Counsel Tiffany Wright to help address the complex legal challenges facing higher education.
Photoshop-maker Adobe taps streaming platform Roku for next legal chief
US software giant Adobe has appointed Louise Pentland as its chief legal officer, succeeding Gloria Chen, who served as interim legal head since late last year following the departure of former general counsel Dana Rao.
DLA Piper’s Former Singapore Office Head Leaves for In-House Role
In May of last year, Joseph Bauerschmidt stepped down as Singapore managing partner after nearly a decade but continued to play an active role in the firm’s corporate practice. He has now joined Digital Edge DC.
Team Moves
Reed Smith Takes Corporate Trust Team from A&O Shearman in Singapore, Hong Kong
The team is headed by Tim Beech, formerly a partner and co-head of A&O Shearman’s Singapore practice.
Ashurst Hires Two-Lawyer White-Collar Team from Eversheds Paris to Strengthen Cross-Border Practice
Partner Alexis Werl led Eversheds’ Paris white collar crime and investigations team, following a similar position at McDermott Will & Emery.
Sidley unveils triple partner raid on Weil in London private funds push
The group is led by Ed Gander, Weil’s global co-head of private funds and head of its London private funds practice. Joining him in the coming weeks will be partners Stephen Fox and Peter Boulle, also from Weil’s private funds team.
Financials:
Cooley’s London Leaders Optimistic Despite Exits, Shrinking Revenue
Despite a turbulent 2024, the firm’s London office remains ambitious as it marks its 10th anniversary.
Revenue Table: US Firms’ London Growth Continues at Pace
An analysis of 26 U.S. firms’ U.K. revenue reveals that most American firms are seeing double-digit growth in their London operations.
Promotions & Appointments:
Mason Hayes & Curran appoints three partners and seven of counsel
The business law firm has welcomed new partners: Andrew Gill in debt capital markets and financial services, Conor O’Leary in dispute resolution and built environment, and Micheál McCarthy in data and technology.
Nine appointments including five new partners at Hayes solicitors
Hayes Solicitors has appointed five new partners, three senior associates, and one associate. The new partners are Pamela Fitzpatrick and Gill Cotter in commercial and business, Michael Kelly in commercial litigation and dispute resolution, Fergal Mullins in healthcare, and Owen Burke in private client.
HSF names new executive partner for UK, EMEA ahead of Kramer merger
Jeremy Walden will assume leadership of the Anglo-Australian firm’s 270-partner UK and EMEA network starting June 1st.
Diversity & Inclusion:
Two centuries of the Law Society: from exclusion to inclusion
Law Society president Richard Atkinson writes that a diverse legal profession more accurately represents the society it serves.
Office Openings & Closing:
Sorrels Law is growing both its presence and leadership by opening a new office in the port city of Beaumont, Texas, led by seasoned maritime attorney David James.
Eckert Seamans Launches in NYC With 11-Lawyer Lateral Group
Pittsburgh-based Eckert Seamans is expanding into New York by bringing in 11 attorneys from Hawkins Parnell & Young.
Aussie firm Wotton Kearney to expand in SE Asia with Bangkok office
Australian law firm Wotton Kearney, specializing in insurance and risk, is planning to grow its footprint with a new office in Thailand—its second in Southeast Asia and eleventh globally.
U.S. law firm Fisher Phillips opens second international office in Tokyo
U.S. labour and employment law firm Fisher Phillips has opened a Tokyo office, marking its second international location after launching in Mexico in 2023.
Mergers & Alliances:
Morae Global Corporation Acquires Information Governance Platform Gimmal
Morae Global Corporation hopes to improve its information management tools and expand its technology offerings.
Anaqua Acquires UK-Based IP Management Services Provider RightHub
After acquiring RightHub, Anaqua plans to strengthen its presence in the EMEA region and broaden its legal management technology portfolio.
McDermott and Schulte, With Merger Vote Within Months, Plan for Top NY Office
The merged firm would boast one of the largest law offices in Manhattan, matching many Wall Street firms in terms of headcount.
Technology & Innovation:
Dentons Launches Internally Developed AI Tool DAISY Across Europe
The launch of DAISY marks the newest step in Dentons’ broader AI strategy for Europe.
Beyond the Logo: How AI Complicates Trademark Protection In the Digital Age
Nowadays, building brands just by offering a different product or service is no longer sustainable. New and improved features or benefits are rapidly outpaced by competitors. As a result, brands demonstrate their category leadership not through logical claims but by cultivating a unique persona—a distinct “ness” made up of specific traits and behaviors that create an exclusive brand essence hard for rivals to copy.
How an AI-First Law Firm in the UK Received Historic SRA Approval
Garfield.Law co-founder and CEO Philip Young discusses the firm’s milestone as the first AI-driven law firm to gain regulatory authorization, shares insights on the future of the legal industry, and explores the role of generative AI in the U.K. legal landscape.
Market Commentary:
The Successful Mediation of a Family Business Dispute
As with any mediation, the first question a skilled mediator should address is: what are the parties aiming to achieve? Are they working toward making the business successful, looking to facilitate a fair and orderly dissolution, or pursuing an intermediate goal—such as buying out a family member who no longer wants to be involved in the business?
Dutch and German Lawyers Sound Alarm Over Trump Pro Bono Deals with BigLaw
Regulators in the Netherlands and Germany are expressing concerns about U.S. law firms’ pro bono work for Trump, citing potential ripple effects and implications for legal independence in critical European markets.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
A&O Shearman Suffers Another Partner Departure as Paul Weiss Continues London Expansion
An analysis by Law.com last month revealed that A&O Shearman had seen the departure of 60 partners over the past eight months. They have experienced yet another defection as partner Nick Charlwood leaves the firm’s restructuring team to join Paul Weiss Rifkind Wharton & Garrison in London.
Linklaters Strengthens Leveraged Finance Team with Hires from Latham & Watkins, Paul Hastings
The partners are set to join the London office, following the firm’s addition of another partner in April. Peter Hayes and Angel Quek will join the firm to further bolster the Leveraged Finance practice.
US Firms Continue London Expansion in Latest London Hires
Akin has revealed two lateral hires just this week.
Paul Weiss Hits A&O Shearman for Second Partner Hire in 24 Hours
Paul Weiss Poaches Second Partner from A&O Shearman Within 24 Hours. They have recruited digital infrastructure partner Tom Levine.
Erc Walsh joins RDJ as real estate partner in Galway
RDJ has appointed Eric Walsh as a partner in the firm’s real estate and finance practice.
APAC
Asia Pacific Moves: HSF, Maddocks, Yoon & Yang and Wilson Sonsini Keep Markets Abuzz with New Hires
The Australian legal market remains active with ongoing lateral partner moves. Over in Asia, Yoon & Yang has recruited senior tax partners from a Big Six competitor, while Wilson Sonsini is taking steps to rebuild after recent partner departures.
Orrick Hires Another A&O Shearman Partner for Singapore Outfit
Energy and infrastructure specialist Adam Moncrieff has been brought as a partner from A&O Shearman. Moncrieff will relocate to Singapore from Vietnam. Orrick also brought on two additional energy and projects lawyers from A&O Shearman’s Jakarta office last year.
Third Australian Legal Regulator Leaves for Private Practice
Finance and investment regulator, Michael Hershan joins MintterEllison.
Jakarta: Former WCA managing partner joins ALTA Advocates
Kristo Molina, formerly the managing partner of Witara Cakra Advocates (WCA), White & Case’s erstwhile Indonesia association firm, has moved to local outfit ALTA Advocates as a partner in the capital markets practice.
Birds boosts SG corporate offering with hire from NRF
International law firm Bird & Bird has welcomed corporate lawyer Shahin Foroughian as a partner in Singapore from Norton Rose Fulbright, where he was a counsel.
HK: Wilson Sonsini welcomes capital markets partner from Davis Polk
U.S. law firm Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati has grown its corporate offering in Hong Kong with the hire of Yang Chu as a partner at Davis Polk & Wardwell.
Ropes expands PE offering in Hong Kong with hire from Freshies
U.S. law firm Ropes & Gray has welcomed private equity expert Richard Perks as a partner in its private equity practice in Hong Kong from Freshfields, where he had spent the entirety of his two-decade-long legal career.
EMEA
Kirkland Builds Luxembourg Capability with Partner Hire from Local Firm
Thibaut Partsch is set to join the firm’s London office, where they will concentrate on advising clients utilizing Luxembourg-based structures.
Paul Hastings Adds Another Key White & Case Partner to Abu Dhabi Team in Strategic Power Play
Paul Hastings is bolstering its energy and infrastructure practice in Abu Dhabi by hiring Ibaad Hakim the fourth partner from White & Case, following the recent departure of three of its London partners to Freshfields in a notable reshuffle of top-tier talent.
Greenberg Traurig and Simmons Hire Key Banking Partners in MidEast Shake-Up
Greenberg Traurig scooped up Alex Roussos a top banking partner from Dentons and three more capital markets lawyers are expected to join within weeks.
The Americas
Baker McKenzie Adds Dispute Muscle in Colombia
María Angélica Burgos de la Ossa has rejoined the firm as a partner after running her own boutique practice, while Sebastián Quintero has been elevated to partner.
Akin Adds Two Ex-Government Lawyers to DC International Trade Team
Matthew Borman and Eileen Albanese, both longtime veterans of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), joined Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld on Monday as part of the firm’s expansion of its international trade practice.
Polsinelli Adds Energy, Infrastructure Finance Partner in San Francisco
Robert Nelson Jr. joins the firm after five years at Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman.
Taft Adds Fintech Leader From Nelson Mullins in 2-Partner Move
Denver-based attorneys Richard B. Levin and Bobby Wenner come to Taft Stettinius & Hollister from Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough, where Levin served as chair of the fintech practice.
Foley Adds 2 Norton Rose Digital Infrastructure Partners in Chicago
The two newly appointed partners at Foley & Lardner, Daniel Farris and Joe McClendon, bring with them a practice that bridges the firm’s energy and infrastructure group with its innovative technology sector.
‘Serious About the Adoption of Legal Tech’: Former EY Law Leader Joins Dentons
Cornelius Grossmann served as the global managing partner of the legal practice at Big Four accounting firm EY for 13 years. He’s now at Dentons, the world’s largest law firm, as its first-ever global head of solutions development.
Sorrels Law Adds Trial Boutique Partner as Head of Commercial Litigation
Brian Baker, formerly a name partner at the trial firm Stacy Baker, has joined Sorrels Law as a partner and will head the firm’s commercial law practice.
Jones Walker Strengthens Construction, Restructuring Practices By Adding Two In Miami
Matt Maranges joined the firm as a partner on its construction team, and Nicole Grimal Helmstetter joined as a special counsel on the bankruptcy and restructuring team.
Sheppard Mullin Adds Health Care Partner From Polsinelli in Chicago
Linas Grikis joins Sheppard Mullin after more than 13 years at Polsinelli.
In-House
US pharma heavyweight Bristol Myers Squibb hires internally to fill GC vacancy
Cari Gallman is promoted to legal head role, replacing Sandra Leung who is retiring after 33 years at the company
US video games industry body ESA hires IP veteran to lead legal team
US video games industry body the Entertainment Software Association (ESA) has named Stan McCoy as its general counsel, replacing Gina Vetere who stepped down in January.
Team Moves
Taylor Wessing Snaps Up Pinsent Masons Team to Launch Paris Patent Practice
The team is headed by partner Jules Fabre, who joins from Pinsent Masons, where he previously led the intellectual property practice in Paris.
Baker McKenzie Hires Fintech Partner Duo in Washington From A&O Shearman
New partner Todd Beauchamp, who is joining the firm with Charles Weinstein, will take the lead of the fintech and payments practice. Meanwhile, Lawrence Lee, a partner since 2019, has been appointed to head the North America fintech M&A practice.
Saxton & Stump Adds Two Litigators From Kleinbard
Shohin Vance and Joshua Voss have both litigated electoral disputes in state and federal appellate courts.
Reed Smith Snags Greenberg Traurig Labor and Employment Co-Chair in 3-Partner Move
The three partners are joining Reed Smith’s Philadelphia office following a strong 2024 for the firm, which reported revenues exceeding $1.5 billion and a 11.4% increase in its bottom line.
The departures leave DLA Piper with no dedicated energy practice partner in Greater China. They include energy specialists Carolyn Dong, Neil Macdonald, and Russell Wilkinson from DLA Piper, and maritime disputes expert Andrew Rigden Green from Stephenson Harwood.
Financials:
King & Spalding Hits $100M Goal in London
According to firm chair Robert Hays, demand has “surged” since 2022 for international arbitration and disputes, along with finance and corporate matters.
Promotions & Appointments:
Ogier promotes finance lawyer Eoin Hamill to partner
Eoin Hamill has been promoted to partner in Ogier’s banking and finance team.
Chris Clarke and Rich Hawkins replace Shane Barber, who is stepping down as Bird & Bird Australia’s head of country and managing partner after a decade in the role.
Diversity & Inclusion:
McCarthy Tétrault’s New DEI Chief Says Firm ‘Unwavering’ in Its Commitment to Inclusion
Steeves Bujold has assumed the role of Chief Inclusion Officer at the firm following the departure of three senior Black lawyers, including his predecessor.
DEI, Immigration Policy Shifts Putting Legal, HR Teams to the Test
Nearly half of the 350 respondents to Littler Mendelson’s annual employer survey worry about prospective litigation over diversity, equity and inclusion—roughly double the percentage a year earlier.
Office Openings & Closing:
Australia’s Wotton Kearney to Open Second Asia Office in Thailand
The firm has secured private equity backing to support its expansion efforts.
Fieldfisher Plants Flag in Poland With Dual Office Launch and 25-Lawyer Team
The firm has secured private equity backing to support its expansion efforts.
American Labor Firm Fisher Philips Breaks Into Asia With Tokyo Launch
Fisher Phillips holds the 167th spot on the Global 200 list, with gross revenues totaling approximately $340 million.
Luxembourg Funds Lawyers form their own alternative legal services boutique
Alix van der Wielen, Benoit Dardenne, Benoit Kelecom, Christophe Balthazard, Olivier Wuidar, and Renaud Graas have joined forces to form LAB Partners, a Luxembourg Alternative Boutique legal company, following years of collaboration!
Mergers & Alliances:
McDermott and Schulte in Merger Talks
The proposed merger would result in a firm generating $2.8 billion in combined revenue, placing it among the top 20 in the Am Law 100, and employing over 1,600 lawyers.
Technology & Innovation:
India’s Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas Launches AI-Focused Law Research Centre
“India has a chance to lead in shaping ethical frameworks for AI and digital technology policy and regulation,” said Cyril Shroff, managing partner at CAM, whose endowment supported the establishment of the platform.
AI-Powered Legal Marketing Startup FirmPilot Announces $4.7 Million in New Funding
The new funding—led by Thomson Reuters Ventures and HubSpot Ventures—builds on a $5 million Series A round headed by Blumberg Capital in June 2024, and comes as the company broadens its focus beyond personal injury firms.
‘Dangerously Innovative’: Putting AI to Work at Firms and in the Courts
Attorneys and judges are becoming more comfortable using artificial intelligence to enhance efficiency and productivity.
Eminent AI Researcher Foresees an In-House Revolution
“We have a study showing that junior professionals tend to be less effective with AI than their senior counterparts because they lack a clear sense of what ‘good’ work looks like,” said Ethan Mollick, co-director of Generative AI Labs at the Wharton School. “They might receive a legal memo and think, ‘This is excellent!’ without realizing its flaws.”
Market Commentary:
The Importance of Change Management In Law Firms: Winning Lawyers’ Support for Behavioral Change
Law firms, traditionally grounded in precedent and resistant to disruption, often face challenges in managing change. However, in today’s fast-changing legal environment, embracing new technologies, workflows, and rising client demands is no longer a choice — it’s a necessity for staying competitive.
During a month when many countries spotlight mental health awareness, The Global Lawyer examines how members of the legal profession—long recognized as facing significant well-being challenges—can navigate these difficult times.
A former co-head of government investigations at Winston & Strawn has established a boutique firm with two former Skadden associates who resigned in protest at their firm’s unwillingness to speak out against President Donald Trump’s targeting of Big Law firms.
BCLP launches redundancy consultation
Transatlantic firm to cut around 8% of business services staff globally
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