Second merger in a year for Wragges
BIRMINGHAM law firm Wragge Lawrence Graham & Co (WLG) and Gowlings, a Canadian law firm, are joining forces to create a new international law firm called Gowling WLG.
The new firm will take effect in January 2016.
Gowling WLG will have more than 1,400 lawyers and legal professionals operating from 18 locations across the UK, Canada, the UK, Europe, Asia and the Middle East.
WLG’s chief executive David Fennell said: “Clients’ legal issues are increasingly international so we want to put ourselves in the strongest position to meet that demand.
“Last year’s merger between Wragge & Co and Lawrence Graham was the first step. Now, with Gowlings – a top-quality firm we know well, admire, like and trust – we are ready to take the next step on our ambitious journey.”
Gowling WLG will provide clients with support in key sectors. These include advanced manufacturing, life sciences, power generation and distribution, projects and infrastructure, real estate, resources (mining, oil & gas), and technology and communications. It will also be home to an intellectual property practice.
Scott Jolliffe, Gowlings’ CEO and chairman, said: “Gowling WLG will be a true coming together of equals. As a result of this combination, we will be able to offer a broader range of services and a deeper pool of legal expertise in key sectors, delivered seamlessly across the world by people who care about their clients and doing the best possible job for them.”
WLG and Gowlings have worked together for a number of years, developing “relationships and rapport”.
