Hogan Lovells-Cadwalader merger gets partner approval ahead of July go-live

Hogan Lovells' merger with Cadwalader is set to launch on 1 July after getting the green light from partners.

The combined firm will be home to 3,100 lawyers across 38 offices in 18 countries, and is expected to reach revenues of $3.6 billion.

Plans for the combination between international giant Hogan and Cadwalader, the oldest firm on Wall Street, were announced in December to the surprise of many - earlier reports suggested the New York firm was in talks to merge with US firm Alston Bird.

Strategy signals

For Hogan Lovells, the tie-up with storied finance and capital markets outfit Cadwalader deepens its New York presence, while Cadwalader will benefit from the scale of Hogan Lovells’ global platform, particularly in areas such as M&A, disputes and regulation.

The firms said New York will become the “fifth engine” of the new firm alongside London, Washington D.C., Germany, and FRIS (the region of France, Italy and Spain). They also emphasised Cadwalader’s presence in Charlotte as a key focus, with the new firm having the largest office of any major player in the financial centre.

Hogan Lovells’ current CEO Miguel Zaldivar will retain his position following the merger, as will the rest of the international firm’s leadership team.

Four Cadwalader partners will be appointed to the combined firm's 21-member management committee, and two will join a 13-seat board.

What they said

“We are creating a firm like no other, with the expertise to advise clients on their most complex work across the G20,” said Zaldivar.

“We have been on the road over the past few months speaking with clients, partners, associates, and business teams - and these conversations have emphatically affirmed the strategic thinking that inspired this combination.

“We see strong opportunities for growth, and clients have expressed enthusiasm and excitement for the combined firm’s expanded reach and depth.”

Cadwalader’s co-managing partner Patrick Quinn will become global managing partner for client and practice integration at the new firm.

He said the combination will improve the firm’s ability to attract top talent and invest in new technology.

“Our shared heritage of ambition, innovation, and commitment to our clients’ success provides us with a strong foundation to integrate our firms, and to continue building a legal platform that anticipates client needs.”