It has been a tumultuous start to the new millennium for Germany’s legal market. A surging economy and a rush of M&A deals at the turn of the century saw it swamped by international law firms eager to get a piece of the action.

By the end of 2001, more than 20 foreign firms had set up camp in Europe’s largest economy with the magic circle leading the charge, either merging their way to the top or cementing premier alliances in their bid for pole position.