Cross border legal merger between Perkins Coie and Ashurst set to reshape global practice
updated on 18 November 2025
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A merger has been announced between US law firm Perkins Coie and British silver circle firm Ashurst LLP, establishing a transatlantic union that’s expected to generate more than £2 billion revenue and will result in a combined total of 3,000 lawyers across 52 offices in 23 countries.
The deal is estimated to be completed in autumn 2026 and will combine Perkin Coie’s technology, intellectual property, litigation and fintech expertise with Ashurst’s cross-border transaction, infrastructure and financial services prowess. Both firms have produced strong financial results over the last few years and enhanced their capabilities through industry-leading AI systems and technology. As a partnership, the new firm is poised to harness these elements and accelerate its growth.
This move follows similar strategic mergers that have shaped the legal landscape in recent years. This includes Herbert Smith Freehills’ merger with Kramer Levin earlier this year and the creation of A&O Shearman in 2023, following the merger of Allen & Overy and Shearman & Sterling.
Instead of having a head office, it’s been reported that the new firm will be based around multiple “flagship hubs” in key cities, such as London, Sydney and New York. The firms currently still operate independently as the merger awaits partner approval and standard closing conditions.
Reported by Legal Cheek, Perkins Coie operates a smaller trainee programme, offering its newly qualified solicitors (NQs) an impressive £180,000. Meanwhile, Ashurst offers 38 training contracts in London, with NQs earning £140,000. Details regarding future trainee intake figures and salaries are currently unknown.
Global chief executive of Ashurst, Paul Jenkins, said: "Our ambition for many years has been to grow in the US with the right partner: a firm with deep, trusted expertise that complements our own. We’ve now found that partner – Perkins Coie is an ambitious, forward-thinking law firm meeting its clients at the forefront of technological change."
Firm managing partner at Perkins Coie, Bill Malley, stated: “Together, we’ll combine resources and expertise to accelerate growth and set new standards for world-class legal service.”
