Ulmer & Greensfelder Merge to Form UB Greensfelder

Midwest law firms Ulmer & Berne and Greensfelder, Hemker & Gale have announced their plans to merge, forming a “super-regional” powerhouse with a combined total of 275 lawyers. The merger, set to take effect on February 1, 2023, aims to create a formidable entity known as UB Greensfelder.

The new firm will be a fusion of the St. Louis-based Greensfelder, boasting 135 lawyers, and the Cleveland-based Ulmer & Berne, contributing 140 legal professionals to the collaboration. According to a joint statement released on Tuesday, the merger is expected to position UB Greensfelder as a major player in the legal landscape, with more than $150 million in combined gross annual revenue. This financial standing is anticipated to secure a spot among the top 200 U.S. law firms by gross revenue, as ranked by the American Lawyer.

Scott Kadish, Ulmer’s managing partner, highlighted the strategic importance of the merger, stating, “A significant factor in moving forward with this combination was the prospect of an Am Law 200 profile and a broader platform.” Kadish emphasized that this expanded platform will play a crucial role in attracting, recruiting, and retaining high-performing and diverse lawyers.

The decision to merge comes amid a trend of industry consolidation that has gained momentum in 2023. Several significant U.S. law firm mergers have been announced or completed this year, demonstrating a commitment to growth and adaptability in a rapidly changing legal landscape. Notable among these is the planned merger between Shearman & Sterling and Allen & Overy, as well as strategic alliances between Maynard Cooper & Gale and Nexsen Pruet, and Holland & Knight and Waller Lansden Dortch & Davis.

UB Greensfelder’s formation is expected to fortify its position as a key player in the legal sector, with a diverse and talented team poised to offer comprehensive legal services across the Midwest and beyond. The merger’s official commencement on February 1 marks the beginning of a new chapter for both Ulmer & Berne and Greensfelder, Hemker & Gale, solidifying their commitment to excellence and client service in an ever-evolving legal landscape.

Source: Reuters