This month, leading law firms have made waves with strategic expansions, significant hires, and involvement in one of the year’s largest private equity deals. Here’s a look at some of the top legal stories from this month.
Top Law Firms Lead $14.5 Billion Nord Anglia Education Takeover
A $14.5 billion acquisition of Nord Anglia Education by a consortium led by EQT, Neuberger Berman, and CPP Investments is reshaping global private equity. Key legal advisors include Latham & Watkins, representing the sellers, Cravath, Swaine & Moore advising Neuberger Berman, and Ropes & Gray and Debevoise & Plimpton, which are advising EQT on key deal aspects.
Read more here.
Clifford Chance Expands in Houston and Bolsters Private Equity in New York
Clifford Chance committed $20 million to open a Houston office, underlining the city's value as an energy hub. In New York, the firm reinforced its private equity team with two new partners, advancing its U.S. expansion strategy.
Latham & Watkins Launches AI Training Academy for Associates
Latham & Watkins launched an academy to train associates in artificial intelligence, focusing on legal tech skills, automation, and ethical AI use to support modern client needs.
Read more here.
Mayer Brown Adds Private Credit Partner in Washington, D.C.
Mayer Brown strengthened its private credit practice with a new partner in Washington, D.C., enhancing its expertise as demand for financing solutions grows.
White & Case Expands M&A and Private Equity Teams in Australia
White & Case added two partners from Allen & Overy Shearman to its Australian offices, expanding its M&A and private equity offerings amid rising Asia-Pacific deal activity. Aaron Kenavan and Jamie Palmer will join the firm in Sydney.
New Partnership Pay Model Introduced at A&O Shearman (3-Level Lockstep Pay)
A&O Shearman recently unveiled a new partner pay model that categorises its approximately 800 partners into three distinct levels: entry, core, and super. According to an insider, the move to a full equity partnership has been "welcomed" by those at the firm, especially the junior level.
Kennedys Refreshes Leadership as Senior Partner Steps Down
Kennedys is set to refresh its leadership as senior partner Nick Thomas stands down. Read more about the transition here.
Freshfields Lures Willkie Partner to Lead NY Private Equity Practice
Freshfields has successfully recruited Willkie partner Claire James to lead its private equity practice in New York, strengthening its position in this competitive market.
Paul Hastings Welcomes New Capital Markets Partners
Paul Hastings announced the addition of capital markets lawyers Scott Chase from Goodwin and Kerry Johnson from DLA Piper as partners in its Boston and Chicago offices, respectively. This move aims to enhance the firm's capabilities in the capital markets space.
Davis Polk Sets New £70k Salary Record for Trainee Solicitors in London
Davis Polk has set a new salary record for trainee solicitors in London, offering £70,000. This move reflects the increasing competition for top legal talent in the city. Find out more here.
Best Law Firms in Australia and New Zealand for 2024
The top law firms in Australia and New Zealand were recognized for their excellence in M&A, litigation, and environmental law. Check out the winners here..
Latin American Wealth Drives Growth for Miami Lawyers
Miami’s legal market is booming with Latin American wealth, increasing demand for legal expertise in private wealth, real estate, and corporate law. Read more here.
