William Fry in Talks to Merge with Eversheds Sutherland Ireland
William Fry, one of Ireland’s leading corporate law firms, has confirmed it’s in discussions with senior representatives of Eversheds Sutherland Ireland about a potential merger. This comes amid increased deal-making activity across the legal sector.
Potential Merger Details
A proposed agreement would see Eversheds Sutherland Ireland’s partners and staff joining William Fry. The top-six Irish corporate law firm released a statement to The Irish Times on Thursday, confirming the ongoing negotiations.
“Any potential transaction remains subject to the approval of both partner groups and any applicable regulatory approvals,” the firm stated.
Firm Background
William Fry has a strong presence in the Irish market with 208 practising solicitor certificates at the end of last year, according to the Law Society. The firm employs approximately 500 people and is led by managing partner Stephen Keogh and chair Liam McCabe.
Eversheds Sutherland Ireland, ranked 14th among firms in the Republic, has 98 practising solicitor certificates and over 300 staff. Managing partner Alan Connell declined to comment on the potential merger.
Recent Merger Activity
This development follows several recent merger announcements in the Irish legal sector:
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ByrneWallace, Ireland’s eighth-largest law firm, agreed to merge with LK Shields in November, forming ByrneWallace Shields with 430 employees and 220 solicitors. This merger will take effect on January 1st, 2024.
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Flynn O’Driscoll announced its merger with Vincent & Beatty in November, creating a firm with a combined headcount of 140.
Trends in the Irish Legal Industry
Dublin’s corporate law services sector has witnessed increased consolidation in recent years. This trend is driven by several factors:
- Brexits’ impact
- The growing number of US multinationals in Ireland
- The strong growth of the Irish economy
In addition to these recent mergers, several foreign law firms have also merged with Irish legal players in recent years:
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Fieldfisher merged with McDowell Purcell in 2019
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Addleshaw Goddard acquired Eugene F Collins in early 2022
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Clark Hill has acquired several Irish firms, including O’Gradys Solicitors, Eames Solicitors, and HMVO Solicitors, in recent years.
Growth of In-House Counsel
This consolidation has occurred alongside a surge in demand for in-house counsel by both Irish corporates and multinational companies based in Ireland. In-house solicitors now make up over a quarter of the profession, with AIB as the largest private-sector employer of solicitors, the Chief State Solicitors’ Office, and the Central Bank of Ireland leading the way in the public sector.
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