Bryan Cave LLP and Berwin Leighton Paisner (BLP) confirmed today that they are in discussions regarding a combination to form a global and fully integrated law firm with 32 offices in 12 countries and a platform of 1500 lawyers.
Clients would have access to legal advice and solutions across the US, Europe, the Middle East and Asia markets, including in many of the world’s leading cities. The merged firm would offer clients a range of internationally integrated capabilities, including one of the most active global M&A practices, the world’s leading Real Estate and Hospitality Sector business, one of the largest and best international Financial Services businesses, and a strong international Litigation and Corporate Risk business.
The joint firm would combine both firms’ internationally recognized leadership in client-focused innovation. Following a combination, clients of both firms would benefit from a wide range of new and innovative service models and products.
“We will seamlessly provide counsel to clients across the globe, deliver client service at a new level and use technology and innovation to redefine efficiency in the practice of law,” said Therese Pritchard, Chair of Bryan Cave. “If we combine we will operate without regard to geographic boundaries. Our firm would be one of only a handful of global firms operating in a one-firm structure with more than 500 lawyers in both the US and internationally.”
“Our two firms share a strong commitment to innovation in the interests of our clients. We also have an unusually strong cultural fit with a mutual focus on collaboration across our businesses in the interests of deep and lasting client relationships,” commented Lisa Mayhew, Managing Partner of Berwin Leighton Paisner (BLP). “It is encouraging for the potential firm that BLP and Bryan Cave both have this complementary heritage, but crucially also share the same ambitions for the future.”
The transaction is not final and is subject to, among other things, the resolution of any conflict issues and approval by partners at both firms later this year. No additional comment will be made until that time.
Bryan Cave LLP (bryancave.com) is a global law firm with more than 900 highly skilled lawyers in 26 offices in North America, Europe and Asia. The firm represents publicly held multinational corporations, large and mid-sized privately held companies, emerging companies, nonprofit and community organizations, government entities, and individuals. With a foundation based on enduring client relationships, deep and diverse legal experience, industry-shaping innovation and a collaborative culture, Bryan Cave’s transaction, litigation and regulatory practices serve clients in key business and financial markets. The firm also offers a range of process improvement and project management services to corporate legal departments through its BCXponent consulting division and Practice Economics, Client Technology and Accelerated Review teams.
Berwin Leighton Paisner (BLP) (www.blplaw.com) is an international law firm with 14 offices across the world focused on client-led innovation. It provides a range of innovative solutions to clients including: Managed Legal Services; Visualisation; Streamline process mapping; and a wide range of practice innovations to its name such as Litigation Financial Forensic Services and High Net Worth Residential and Family Asset Protection services.
Source: www.bryancave.com
