Dickinson Wright PLLC, a Michigan-based law firm with over 250 lawyers, announced its merger with Aylesworth LLP, a Canadian law firm based in Toronto. Dickinson Wright combined with an established local firm in Toronto, Aylesworth, to boost its existing Ontario affiliate from the current six lawyers who are focused on gaming law to about 30 lawyers who will handle various areas of practice such as general corporate, litigation, finance, real estate, and trusts and estates work. Aylesworth has been operating for more than 150 years and has a solid track record as a law firm in Toronto. The merger took effect on January 1, 2011.
William T. Burgess, Chief Executive Officer of Dickinson Wright PLLC, revealed that the merger talks have been in the work over the past several months until the deal was sealed in January 1, 2011. Burgess noted that Dickinson’s interest was fueled by Aylesworth’s reputation in the legal industry of Canada. “The Aylesworth firm, like Dickinson Wright, brings more than a century of professional excellence, and we are thrilled to have the Aylesworth lawyers join our existing team of accomplished lawyers in Ontario. We are highly aligned in our commitment to superior client service, professionalism, and broadening the areas of expertise that we offer to our expanding client base.” Burgess added that the merger would have a big impact on its current Ontario operations with the addition of Aylesworth’s expertise. “Adding the Aylesworth professionals gives a full-service component to our affiliate in Ontario and strengthens our service capabilities in the region. The Aylesworth team brings in-depth knowledge in a number of practice areas and industry sectors and we are thrilled to be adding their experience and strengths to our own.”
Eric Kay, Managing Partner of Aylesworth LLP, expressed his excitement over the recent merger. He said that his colleagues at Aylesworth are all delighted to work with Dickinson Wright. “This is an exciting move for all of us. Dickinson Wright offers a unique value proposition for talented, like-minded professionals; access to resources and expertise across the United States and Toronto, combined with an entrepreneurial spirit and approach to the marketplace. It’s a great fit for our clients and our people.”