Rebecca Maslen-Stannage

The combination of the two firms has been approved by their respective partnerships and is expected to take place on 1 June 2025.

HSF Kramer will have around 2,700 lawyers, including 630 partners, across 26 offices and over $2 billion USD in revenue.

That includes an office in Belfast, where Herbert Smith Freehills has operated an “alternative legal services” (ALT) practice since 2011, employing over 200 lawyers, technologists, legal analysts and eDiscovery specialists.

Commenting on the merger, Rebecca Maslen-Stannage, chair and senior partner of Herbert Smith Freehills, said: “This combination is a historic and long-term commitment from both firms to pursue our future together as one combined firm, and this is just the beginning.

“We are excited about our shared vision and will build on our strong foundations around the globe.”

Justin D’Agostino, global CEO of Herbert Smith Freehills, added: “Today is an exciting day — a major milestone for our firms.

“HSF Kramer’s combined offering, global reach and scale means we will be able to deliver more effectively for our clients, whose needs are evolving rapidly in a complex environment.”

 Paul H. Schoeman and Howard T. Spilko, co-managing partners of Kramer Levin, said: “Joining forces with HSF is a unique opportunity that enables us to achieve our shared vision and potential for strategic growth in the US. This is a significant achievement for our combined firm.”