Ashurst and Perkins Coie to Merge, Forming a Global Legal Powerhouse

London-based Ashurst and US. firm Perkins Coie announced on Monday that they have agreed to merge, forming a combined practice of around 3,000 lawyers and generating $2.7 billion in revenue -- placing the new entity among the world’s top 20 law firms.

Perkins Coie, one of several firms that successfully challenged executive orders issued by U.S. President Donald Trump targeting them for perceived political associations, will join forces with Ashurst under the new name Ashurst Perkins Coie.

Ashurst’s global CEO Paul Jenkins told Reuters that merger talks began in February and were driven by a shared long-term vision. “From the outset, our conversations have focused on the future -- not just the next few years, but the decade ahead and beyond,” he said.

Perkins Coie managing partner Bill Malley said Ashurst expands the firm’s international footprint, adding that the merger strengthens their ability to provide seamless cross-border legal support. He noted the combined firm will be exceptionally positioned to serve clients across sectors such as technology, financial services, energy, and infrastructure.

Jenkins and Malley will serve as global co-CEOs of the merged firm, which will have 52 offices spanning 23 countries. Jenkins said there are currently no plans to add new locations.

The deal reflects a growing wave of transatlantic law-firm consolidation, following recent agreements such as Herbert Smith Freehills’ tie-up with Kramer Levin and the 2023 merger of Allen & Overy with Shearman & Sterling.

The merger remains subject to partner approval at both firms and, if approved, is expected to be finalized in late 2026.

Perkins Coie -- which represented Hillary Clinton’s 2016 presidential campaign -- was targeted earlier this year by a Trump executive order suspending security clearances for its employees and limiting their access to federal facilities and contracts. A federal judge overturned the order in May, though the administration is appealing. Similar orders issued against WilmerHale, Jenner & Block and Susman Godfrey were also invalidated.

For any enquiries please fill out this form, or contact info@thelawreporters.com and  Follow  The Law Reporters on WhatsApp Channels