Making legal news this week, two International law firms are reportedly in merger talks, DLA Piper partners vote for remuneration change and one firm was praised for diversity support.
Two well-known international law firms are
reported to be in merger talks. UK-based Berwin Leighton Paisner (BLP) and Greenberg Traurig based in the US would both reap benefits from a tie-up with BLP having lower international coverage while the Americans have limited capacity in London’s financial centre. BLP has been seeking a merger partner since Lisa Mayhew succeeded Neville Eisenberg as managing partner.
Global partners of DLA Piper have voted in favour of changing the firm’s remuneration structure. Partners from Asia-Pacific together with those in Europe, the Middle East and Africa said yes to a points-based system and an increased bonus pool. The change also means that new partners would need to build their practice before enjoying the same remuneration as longer-term partners. There is also a new mini-lockstep. The moves were approved by 94 per cent of the international LLP partners.
Herbert Smith Freehills has attracted praise from the LGBTIQ community after becoming the first corporate partner to support the MELT Festival in Brisbane.
“Our colleagues at the firm are enlightened thinkers, passionate citizens and wonderful collaborators,” said performing arts producer and artistic director of MELT Queer Fest Adam Gardnier.
“This partnership is very special for both Brisbane Powerhouse and Herbert Smith Freehills.
“It shows how interesting corporate sponsorship can really be, with face to face connections between artists, partners, employees and clients.”
