London-based law firm Ashurst and U.S.-based Perkins Coie have announced their intention to merge, forming a global legal entity named Ashurst Perkins Coie. This combination is set to create a firm with approximately 3,000 lawyers and projected revenues of $2.7 billion, positioning it among the top 20 law firms worldwide. The merger is pending partner approval and, if sanctioned, is expected to be finalized by late 2026. The combined firm will operate through 52 offices in 23 countries. ([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/legal/legalindustry/law-firms-ashurst-perkins-coie-agree-merger-create-global-top-20-outfit-2025-11-17/?utm_source=openai))
Perkins Coie, headquartered in Seattle, is recognized for its strong presence in the technology sector, providing corporate, litigation, and intellectual property services to clients such as Google, Microsoft, Intel, Meta, and Amazon. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Perkins_Coie?utm_source=openai)) Ashurst, with its established global footprint, offers expertise in complex cross-border transactions and has a significant presence in the energy, infrastructure, financial services, and real estate sectors. ([prnewswire.com](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/perkins-coie-and-ashurst-announce-intent-to-combine-into-a-top-20-global-law-firm–ashurst-perkins-coie–with-a-focus-on-tech-energy-and-infrastructure-and-financial-services-302617090.html?utm_source=openai))
The leadership of the new firm will be shared by Paul Jenkins and Bill Malley as global co-CEOs. Jenkins emphasized the strategic nature of the merger, stating, “Our ambition for many years has been to grow in the U.S. with the right partner.” Malley highlighted the complementary aspects of the merger, noting that “Ashurst complements our geographic reach,” and underscored the importance of delivering “trusted legal guidance seamlessly across borders.” ([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/legal/legalindustry/law-firms-ashurst-perkins-coie-agree-merger-create-global-top-20-outfit-2025-11-17/?utm_source=openai))
This merger reflects a broader trend of transatlantic law firm consolidations aimed at enhancing global reach and competitiveness. Recent examples include the tie-ups between Herbert Smith Freehills and Kramer Levin, as well as Allen & Overy and Shearman & Sterling. ([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/legal/legalindustry/law-firms-ashurst-perkins-coie-agree-merger-create-global-top-20-outfit-2025-11-17/?utm_source=openai))
Both firms have demonstrated strong financial performance in recent years, investing in technology and artificial intelligence to enhance their advisory capabilities. The combined firm aims to leverage these investments to transform the practice of law and assist clients in implementing AI effectively. ([prnewswire.com](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/perkins-coie-and-ashurst-announce-intent-to-combine-into-a-top-20-global-law-firm–ashurst-perkins-coie–with-a-focus-on-tech-energy-and-infrastructure-and-financial-services-302617090.html?utm_source=openai))
The proposed merger is subject to customary closing conditions, including a vote of the partners at each firm. If approved, the combined entity will be well-positioned to serve clients across key industries shaping the global economy, including technology, energy and infrastructure, and financial services. ([prnewswire.com](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/perkins-coie-and-ashurst-announce-intent-to-combine-into-a-top-20-global-law-firm–ashurst-perkins-coie–with-a-focus-on-tech-energy-and-infrastructure-and-financial-services-302617090.html?utm_source=openai))