Edwards Angell merges with Chicago's Wildman Harrold

The two firms confirmed today that they will combine on 1 October this year. The new firm, Edwards Wildman Palmer, will have 13 offices and around 650 lawyers.

“This is a transformative moment for both firms,” said Walter Reed, the managing partner of Edwards Angell. “In this competitive market, clients expect their preferred law firms to deliver a full range of legal services in a variety of geographies.

“This combination enhances our already-strong capabilities and establishes a solid foundation for continued growth.”

Reed will serve as the managing partner of Edwards Wildman Palmer while Robert Shuftan, managing partner of Wildman Harrold, will become deputy managing partner and chair of the firm’s strategic planning committee.

Earlier this year Edwards Angell  merged with Washington DC telecoms boutique Fleischman and Harding while its London office turnover grew by almost 50 per cent in 2010 (28 February 2011).