DLA Piper to merge with Australian ally DLA Phillips Fox

DLA Piper International has announced plans to merge with Australian best friend firm DLA Phillips Fox, pending a vote from their respective partnerships. The firms have been in an exclusive referral relationship since 2006, and have decided to take the step of full financial integration by 1 May, with DLA Phillips Fox becoming part of DLA Piper's international LLP. DLA Phillip Fox New Zealand will not be part of the arrangement, but will remain as an exclusive best friends referral firm. DLA Piper co-chief executive Sir Nigel Knowles said: "The cementing of the relationship between DLA Piper and DLA Phillips Fox is part of our global strategy and is an integral part in helping us become the world's leading business law firm. As part of our strategy we are committed to expansion within the G20 nations, and with Australia as the 14th-largest industrialised nation it provides excellent opportunities with its strong ties to some of the most rapidly growing economies in Asia." He added: "With the integration of DLA Phillips Fox, DLA Piper will be the world's largest business law firm, uniquely positioning our firm to serve the world's leading enterprises wherever they may conduct business."

DLA Piper to merge with Australian ally DLA Phillips Fox legalweek.com Fri, Jan 28, 2011