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Top 10 BigLaw market updates in 2024

There were several major moves across the BigLaw sector in 2024, such as international expansions, shock exits and mergers. Here, we wrap up the top 10 most-read market updates.

user iconLawyers Weekly 30 December 2024 Big Law
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10. Wotton + Kearney to expand into Singapore

International law firm Wotton + Kearney, which has nine offices across Australia and New Zealand, is set to open its 10th office in Singapore with two partners from a global rival as the BigLaw player sets its sights on the south-east Asian city-state as a global insurance hub.

9. Herbert Smith Freehills to merge with Kramer Levin

Global law firm Herbert Smith Freehills, which has five offices Down Under, is set to merge with US-based firm Kramer Levin, creating a firm with more than 2,700 lawyers and over $US2 billion in revenue, and making it “the largest global law firm in Australia”, it said.

8. Lander & Rogers chief executive to step down

After six years in the role, Lander & Rogers chief executive partner Genevieve Collins will step down at the end of the year, with a new chief executive named for 2025.

7. PwC sues lawyer over tax leaks scandal

In a major response to a claim for unpaid entitlements, PwC has filed its own action against a lawyer and former partner over his alleged involvement in the tax scandal that rocked the accounting giant.

6. KPMG cuts legal division, 30 jobs in major restructure

The big four firm has announced a restructure of its legal business less than a month after its $80 million consulting restructure.

5. HWL Ebsworth’s expulsion of capital partner amid IPO ‘invalid’

Major Australian firm HWL Ebsworth breached its partnership deed when it expelled a capital partner who was shut out of the failed IPO.

4. Hogan Lovells to exit Australia

Global law firm Hogan Lovells is set to exit the Australian market, having made the decision to close its last remaining office Down Under, in Sydney, which comprises almost 40 staff, including six partners.

3. HWL Ebsworth moves into new leadership model

HWL Ebsworth has formulated its new leadership structure after the tragic death of its managing partner, Juan Martinez, earlier this year.

2. SafeWork NSW ‘making enquiries’ into Corrs

Allegations of psychological hazards at BigLaw firm Corrs Chambers Westgarth have prompted inquiries from the workplace regulator in NSW.

1. Clifford Chance fires partner following serious misconduct allegations

Global law firm Clifford Chance has terminated one of its Perth-based partners following an internal investigation into allegations of serious misconduct.

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