Big Law had a boutique merger bonanza this week. Several firms in the Am Law 200 and beyond announced mergers with boutiques, citing a mix of fortune and strategy, the culmination of years-long talks, and even a desire to capitalize on economic headwinds that could slow competitors. Notably, none of the boutique mergers were among those in the Am Law 50.
Analysts say the boutique-combination momentum could continue this year, as mergers are expected to rise across industry segments in 2023, with smaller firms continuing to feel pressure to scale up and larger firms continuing to consolidate in the face of uncertainty.
