Ashurst Perkins Coie Merger: Detailed explanation of the landmark transatlantic merger between UK-based Ashurst and US firm Perkins Coie. Learn how this top-20 global law firm, Ashurst Perkins Coie, combines expertise in Technology, IP, and Litigation (Perkins Coie) with Energy, Infrastructure, and Financial Services (Ashurst) across 52 offices in 23 countries. Discover the strategic rationale for the $2.7 billion union, its focus on global growth, AI implementation, and continuity of leadership.
The announced combination of the UK-headquartered firm Ashurst and the US firm Perkins Coie marks a significant, high-value move in the global legal industry’s consolidation trend. The merger is set to create a new entity, Ashurst Perkins Coie, forming a Top-20 global law firm by revenue, with an estimated combined annual revenue of approximately US$2.7 billion and a global headcount of around 3,000 lawyers.
Strategic Rationale and Combined Strengths
This merger is described as a “combination of equals,” uniting two elite firms with highly complementary geographic footprints, sector expertise, and cultures, enabling the new firm to offer fully integrated global legal solutions.
Complementary Expertise and Sector Focus
The merger is fundamentally designed to create a multidisciplinary powerhouse by combining distinct, high-growth sector capabilities:
- Perkins Coie’s Strengths: Brings market leadership in the Technology sector, deep expertise in Intellectual Property (IP), Corporate Law, and Litigation, along with specialized practices in Privacy, Fintech, Environmental, and Life Sciences. Its US presence is central to its power.
- Ashurst’s Strengths: Contributes an established global presence, particular strength in complex cross-border transactions, and deep sector expertise in Energy & Infrastructure, Financial Services, and Real Estate.
The combined entity, Ashurst Perkins Coie, will therefore be uniquely positioned as a leading advisor across the key industries shaping the future global economy: Technology, Energy and Infrastructure, and Financial Services.
Expanded Global Footprint
The combination achieves a truly global scale that neither firm possessed individually:
- The merged firm will span 52 offices across 23 countries.
- It will operate with flagship hubs in key global financial and technological centers: Seattle (Perkins Coie’s home base), London (Ashurst’s home base), Sydney, and New York.
- This network ensures a significant presence in major business and regulatory centers across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Middle East, a crucial factor for serving multinational clients.
Focus on Innovation and AI
Both firms have demonstrated a recent commitment to investing in technology and AI systems. The merger is expected to accelerate this focus, positioning the combined firm as a technology pioneer in the legal industry. The substantial combined financial strength will be leveraged to invest in and harness AI to transform the practice of law and assist clients in implementing AI effectively.
Leadership, Governance, and Industry Context
Leadership Structure
The new firm, pending partner approval (expected to close in late 2026), will be led by a joint leadership team to ensure continuity and a unified vision:
- Global Co-CEOs: Paul Jenkins (current Ashurst Global CEO) and Bill Malley (current Perkins Coie Managing Partner).
- Co-Chairs: Karen Davies (current Ashurst Global Chair) and Brian Eiting (Perkins Coie Partner).
The firm has indicated the structure will be a “50-50” integration in all respects, including its board and leadership team, signaling a genuine pooling of resources and profits.
Broader Industry Trend
This transatlantic union is the latest example of accelerating global consolidation in the legal industry, a trend driven by client demand for seamlessly integrated cross-border services and the firms’ need for greater scale to compete in high-stakes, high-revenue markets. This move follows other significant transatlantic mergers, such as the 2023 creation of A&O Shearman (Allen & Overy and Shearman & Sterling).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Ashurst Perkins Coie Merger
What is the name of the combined law firm?
The new entity resulting from the merger will be called Ashurst Perkins Coie.
What is the size of the combined firm?
Ashurst Perkins Coie will be a Top-20 global law firm with a combined annual revenue of approximately US$2.7 billion and a headcount of about 3,000 lawyers across 52 offices in 23 countries.
What are the new firm’s primary areas of focus?
The merged firm will focus on Technology, Intellectual Property, Corporate, Litigation, Energy & Infrastructure, and Financial Services, leveraging the combined strengths of both legacy firms.
When is the merger expected to be completed?
The merger is subject to customary closing conditions, including a partner vote at both firms, and is expected to be completed in late 2026.
