Partner vote clears path for Winston Taylor launch

Winston & Strawn and Taylor Wessing’s UK-led business have formally approved their proposed merger, clearing the way to launch the combined firm Winston Taylor.

The merger, announced in December, will create a transatlantic law firm with more than 1,400 lawyers across the US, UK, Europe, the Middle East and Latin America, spanning 20 offices globally.

All votes in

Taylor Wessing the Netherlands and Belgium have also voted to operate under the Winston Taylor brand, with full integration expected over time, subject to regulatory approvals.

The combined firm has agreed a cooperation and referral arrangement with the legacy Taylor Wessing verein, including the German business, to maintain continuity for clients.

The firm is expected to launch officially in May 2026 following a period of partner-led integration.

What they said

“The decisive, overwhelming support from our partnerships reflects a shared passion and commitment to meeting our clients’ desire for a unified team across the Atlantic—one that delivers unparalleled advice and capability in the areas that matter most to them,” said Steve D’Amore, chairman of Winston, who will continue as chairman of the combined firm.

“This combination creates a transatlantic law firm in the major hubs of innovation and capital in the US, Europe, and the Middle East,” added Shane Gleghorn, managing partner of Taylor Wessing UK, who will serve as managing partner of Europe and Middle East for Winston Taylor and will become a member of its Executive Committee.

He added that the partners voted in favour of the combination because “both firms have an absolute commitment to achieving our clients’ objectives and that focus will be the foundation of our shared success”.