On May 21, 2023, Allen & Overy and Shearman & Sterling announced they are merging into a fully integrated firm: Allen Overy Shearman Sterling – A&O Shearman for short.
Globally, A&O Shearman will have approximately 3,900 lawyers and approximately 800 Partners across 49 offices. In CEE, A&O is the only one present with offices in the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia, and Turkey (through its association with Gedik & Eraksoy). The firm also had a presence in Romania (through its association with RTPR, which ceased in March 2020) and in Russia (with the office winding down following Russia's invasion of Ukraine).
“This combination of two great firms is such an exciting step for us," Allen & Overy Senior Partner Wim Dejonghe commented. "Both firms have a history of excellence, and together we think A&O Shearman will be a firm unlike any other in the world.
"Client need for global elite firms has never been greater," Shearman & Sterling Senior Partner Adam Hakki added. "They are calling for integrated global legal solutions and advice: merging with Allen & Overy will dramatically accelerate our ability to meet their needs in an increasingly complex environment."
Simpson Thacher & Bartlett is advising Allen & Overy and Davis Polk & Wardwell is advising Shearman & Sterling on the merger.
Editor's Note: On October 13, 2023, A&O Senior Partner Wim Dejonghe announced that the partnerships of both Allen & Overy and Shearman & Sterling had voted in favor of merging to create A&O Shearman, "with a 99%+ majority in both firms."
"This is a historic moment for both firms and our profession," Dejonghe commented. "We are delighted that our partners have voted so resoundingly in favor of this merger, which is a transformational step for the legal industry."
