Morgan Lewis Welcomes 54-Lawyer Team in Paris
Philadelphia-based law firm Morgan, Lewis & Bockius has announced a significant expansion in Paris, acquiring a 54-lawyer team from Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel. The move is set to take effect on January 1 and underscores Morgan Lewis’ strategic focus on strengthening its European presence.
Transition Ahead of Kramer Levin’s Merger
This high-profile acquisition comes as Kramer Levin prepares for its merger with global legal powerhouse Herbert Smith Freehills. Notably, Kramer Levin’s Paris office was excluded from the merger, creating an opportunity for Morgan Lewis to integrate the talented team into its fold.
Leadership and Expertise
Corporate partner Dana Anagnostou and private equity partner Sébastien Pontillo, co-leaders of Kramer Levin’s Paris office, will join Morgan Lewis as key figures in the transition. Anagnostou will assume leadership of Morgan Lewis’ Paris office alongside current head Sabine Smith-Vidal.
“We are excited to welcome such a talented and experienced group to Morgan Lewis,” said Smith-Vidal. “Their expertise will enhance our ability to serve clients in France and across the globe.”
Comprehensive Legal Capabilities
The new team brings a wealth of experience across various practice areas, including:
- Mergers and acquisitions (M&A)
- Private equity
- Banking and finance
- Compliance
- Litigation
- Employment law
With this integration, Morgan Lewis’ Paris office will grow to a total of 110 professionals, including 23 partners, further solidifying the firm’s multidisciplinary legal services.
A Legacy of Expansion
Kramer Levin’s Paris office has been a cornerstone of the firm since its establishment in 1999. The office was originally formed with 21 lawyers from Rogers & Wells, a New York firm that merged with London-based Clifford Chance in 2000. Now, this experienced team will become an integral part of Morgan Lewis’ global network.
Kramer Levin’s Future with Herbert Smith Freehills
Meanwhile, Kramer Levin and Herbert Smith Freehills are poised to hold partnership votes in February to finalize their merger. Announced in November, the merger aims to create a global firm with more than 2,700 lawyers. The combined entity will operate as Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer globally and as HSF Kramer in the United States.
“We wish our Paris colleagues the best in this next chapter,” said Paul Schoeman and Howard Spilko, co-managing partners of Kramer Levin, in a statement.
Strategic Implications
This acquisition marks a pivotal moment for Morgan Lewis as it strengthens its foothold in Europe while diversifying its legal services. It also reflects the evolving dynamics of the legal industry, with firms strategically realigning to meet global client demands.