The Brief:
Ashurst and Perkins Coie partners voted overwhelmingly to approve their merger, creating a top 20 global firm by revenue.
The combined firm will have 3,000 lawyers, US$2.8bn in revenue and hubs in Sydney, London, New York and Seattle.
Ashurst and Perkins Coie have secured partner approval for their proposed merger, clearing the way for one of the biggest transatlantic tie-ups in Big Law.
Both partnerships voted overwhelmingly in favour.
The combined firm, Ashurst Perkins Coie, will field around 3,000 lawyers across 50+ offices with revenues of roughly US$2.8bn (A$3.9bn), placing it comfortably inside the global top 20 by revenue.
What they said
Ashurst global CEO Paul Jenkins, who will serve as co-CEO alongside Perkins Coie managing partner Bill Malley, said:
"This vote confirms the strong alignment between our firms and our joint ambition for the future. Through our extensive engagement with partners, our people, and clients since announcing our intention to combine, it has become clear that our two firms are a natural fit."
The backdrop
The deal hands Ashurst the US footprint it has long chased. Perkins Coie brings 1,060+ lawyers across 17 US offices, with deep roots in tech. Ashurst brings the global platform, with strength in energy, financial services and cross-border transactions.
Sydney is one of four flagship hubs alongside London, New York and Seattle.
While not every firm is eyeing the merger strategy, transatlantic combinations are the focus for those that do, following Allen & Overy's tie-up with Shearman & Sterling in 2024 and the formation of HSF Kramer last year.
The deal is expected to close Q3 2026.
Source: Ashurst