For as long as I can remember there has been talk of when or whether SJ Berwin would try to put together a merger with a US law firm. For a firm with a thrusting US-style culture and a tempting European footprint for an international suitor, it isn’t hard to see why some have viewed its end-game as a transformative cross-border merger. Some partners are well disposed to such a move, though opinions have always varied internally.
Previously, however, the firm has steadfastly denied that it was intent on such a move. It’s not denying it anymore. As best as can be divined, the current focus is on whether to shift its strategy towards seriously seeking out a US deal. As part of this there are an informal group of firms that have been identified as potential partners, including Goodwin Procter and Orrick Herrington & Sutcliffe. Another firm cited as a potential match is New York’s Proskauer Rose. Previously, O’Melveny & Myers’ name has been attached to the firm, though not with much to back it up.
