The integration period following the merger of Herbert Smith Freehills and Kramer Levin, which culminated in the formation of Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer (HSF Kramer) in June 2025, is nearing completion. A significant milestone in this process has been the establishment of a unified pay structure, addressing one of the primary challenges inherent in such large-scale combinations.
The merger was driven by strategic objectives: Herbert Smith Freehills aimed to strengthen its presence in the United States, while Kramer Levin sought to expand its international reach. The combined firm now boasts approximately 2,700 lawyers, including around 630 partners, across 26 offices worldwide, with revenues exceeding US$2 billion. ([hsfkramer.com](https://www.hsfkramer.com/en_US/news/2025-04/hsf-and-kramer-levin-approve-combination-to-form-global-legal-powerhouse?utm_source=openai))
In the first fiscal year post-merger, HSF Kramer reported revenues of US$2.407 billion and profits of US$850.8 million, resulting in a profit per equity partner (PEP) of US$2.05 million. These figures surpassed initial synergy targets set at the time of the merger. ([pointblank.law](https://www.pointblank.law/p/hsf-kramer-beats-its-own-targets-in-first-year-since-merger?utm_source=openai))
A key component of the integration has been the harmonization of compensation structures. Notably, the firm increased the salaries of its newly qualified associates in London to £145,000, up from £135,000, effective July 1, 2026. This adjustment positions HSF Kramer competitively within the market, reflecting its commitment to attracting and retaining top legal talent. ([ajosolicitors.co.uk](https://ajosolicitors.co.uk/hsf-kramer-pushes-nq-solicitor-pay-to-145k/?utm_source=openai))
The successful integration of pay structures and the firm’s strong financial performance underscore the effectiveness of the merger. HSF Kramer continues to focus on strategic growth areas, including energy, private capital, class actions, and artificial intelligence, aiming to leverage its expanded capabilities to better serve a global client base. ([theblueprintbrief.com](https://theblueprintbrief.com/articles/how-has-hsf-kramer-performed-since-its-merger-1/?utm_source=openai))