Leading law firms announced tie-up and launched globally 

Eversheds Sutherland, created by the combination of leading law firms, Eversheds, headquartered in the UK, and Sutherland Asbill & Brennan LLP, based in the US, launches globally today under the name Eversheds Sutherland.

With more than 2,300 lawyers in 61 offices across 29 countries, Eversheds Sutherland ranks in the top 10 in UK listings and top 40 in US and global listings.

The two firms announced on 16th December 2016 that their respective partners had voted overwhelmingly to combine. Since then, both firms have been working closely to advance the shared goal of providing clients with quality, innovation and consistency in legal services delivery around the globe. Today, the combination is effective.

Eversheds Chief Executive, Bryan Hughes, commented:

“Establishing a truly global platform for our clients, including a strong presence in the US, has long been our number one strategic priority. I am delighted that, with the creation of Eversheds Sutherland, that vision finally becomes a reality. Sutherland shares completely our approach to the creation of meaningful long term relationships with clients to deliver the very highest levels of service. We are very much looking forward to working together, collaborating as equal partners to create a new and powerful offering in the legal sector.”

Sutherland Managing Partner, Mark Wasserman, commented:

“We are grateful for the overwhelmingly positive response we have received from our clients, partners and staff about the bright future ahead for Eversheds Sutherland. This new relationship, strengthens our core competencies and provides us the opportunity to expand our client services globally. Working together with our new colleagues worldwide, we are committed to delivering the benefits of this broadened international platform to our clients.”

Eversheds Managing Partner and CEO-Elect, Lee Ranson, commented:

“Since the partner vote, things have moved on apace which says a lot about the collaborative relationship that already exists between us. Our joint focus is clear – it’s all about client service both for existing arrangements and in enhancing our offering for those who could benefit. The reaction internally and externally so far could not have been better with the opportunities and work presented to us already sending us a clear message that our global platform and approach to quality, innovation and client service is highly compelling.”

Eversheds Sutherland will be led by joint CEOs as part of a six-strong global management team. Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP Managing Partner and CEO-Elect, Lee Ranson, and Eversheds Sutherland (US) LLP Managing Partner, Mark Wasserman, have been appointed as joint CEOs.

The other members of the global management team are: Keith Froud and Ian Gray from Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP and Victor Haley and Thomas Gick, until April 2017, to be followed by Cynthia Krus, from Eversheds Sutherland (US) LLP.

Eversheds Sutherland Ltd is overseen by a global Board of ten with equal representation from both firms.  From Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP: Keith Froud, Lee Ranson, Paul Smith, plus two rotating members from their international board and Regional Managing Partner team. From Eversheds Sutherland (US) LLP: Ben Clark, Thomas Gick until April, Cynthia Krus from April, Robert Pile, Eric Tresh, Mark Wasserman.

There are no significant internal structural changes anticipated within either firm and respective practice group heads are working together to co-lead client initiatives.

Source: Eversheds Sutherland

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