Lovells is beginning the process of closing down its Chicago office ahead of the firm’s May 1 merger with Hogan & Hartson. The decision, which still has to be approved by Lovells’ partners, was made by the management team of Lovells, though Hogan & Hartson has been informed of it.

In a statement Tuesday, Lovells managing partner David Harris said the decision to shut down the office came after reviewing the seven-partner office’s finances.