Ashurst and Perkins Coie to complete mega-merger
Ashurst has announced its plan to merge with US law firm Perkins Coie, creating a new global legal powerhouse: Ashurst Perkins Coie.
“Perkins Coie is an ambitious and forward-thinking law firm serving clients at the forefront of technological change. At a time of rapid transformation and strategic complexity, we are excited by this unique opportunity to launch a truly differentiated global law firm for our clients and our team,” Paul Jenkins (pictured), Global Chief Executive, Ashurst, said.
A new global giant: Ashurst Perkins Coie
The combined firm will bring together 6,500 professionals, including 3,000 lawyers, and will generate $2.7 billion in annual revenue. It will operate across 52 offices in 23 countries, with key hubs in Seattle, London, Sydney and New York, and a strong presence in major global business centres such as Brussels, Dubai, Frankfurt, Hong Kong, Paris, Seoul, Shenzhen, Singapore and Tokyo.
Ashurst Perkins Coie will be led by Bill Malley and Paul Jenkins as co-global managing partners, ensuring continuity of leadership as the combined firm enters its next phase of growth. Karen Davies (Ashurst) and Brian Eiting (Perkins Coie) will serve as co-chairs of the combined firm. Mark Birnbaum, current chairman of the Perkins Coie Executive Committee, whose regular term ends at the end of 2025, will remain in office until closing.
Expansion
Ashurst has spent years seeking the right partner to strengthen its footprint in the United States. Previous attempts were hindered by several factors, including a high-profile political episode: former US President Donald Trump issued an executive order targeting Perkins Coie for its involvement in past investigations. Courts ultimately blocked the measure, ruling it unconstitutional and politically motivated.
Market performance and sector strength
In Spain, Ashurst reported €33 million in revenue in 2024, a 17.86% increase over 2023 (€20 million), with an average revenue per partner of €2.36 million, according to Iberian Lawyer’s ranking of the top 50 firms by turnover.
Perkins Coie brings deep experience in the technology sector, as well as strong capabilities in corporate law, litigation, intellectual property, privacy, fintech, environmental law and life sciences. Ashurst contributes renowned expertise in cross-border transactions, with sectoral strength in energy and infrastructure, financial services and real estate.
A shared vision
“Ashurst brings a global platform that complements our reach and recognised strength in the energy, infrastructure and financial services sectors. The firm shares our ambition to build an organisation defined by ingenuity and collaboration. Together, we will combine our expertise to accelerate growth and set new standards for world-class legal services,” said Bill Malley, Managing Partner of Perkins Coie.
