Squire Sanders Hammonds’ parent expands Down Under

THE US parent of UK law firm Squire Sanders Hammonds is to expand its global presence with a move into Australia.

Squire, Sanders & Dempsey, a top 25 global legal practice, is finalising talks with the majority of the partners from the Western Australia firm that has operated under the Minter Ellison brand for more than two decades.

Squire Sanders plans to use the Perth-based firm as a means of expanding both into Australia and to strengthen its presence in the fast growing Asia Pacific region.

Squire Sanders chairman and global chief executive officer, James J Maiwurm, said: “The potential combination of Squire Sanders and partners from Minter Ellison Perth would add to our capabilities and developing practice in Asia, with Perth providing a key hub for services to the region’s growing economies.

“We are attracted to the Minter Ellison Perth partners because of their strong domestic practices and outstanding energy and resources component, which will complement and strengthen Squire Sanders’ existing practices and expertise.

“The enhanced practice will enable the combined firm to strengthen relationships with clients in Japan and China, where Squire Sanders has strong offices, and with clients and opportunities in Africa, and the rest of South East Asia.”

Squire Sanders was one of the first US-based law firms to move into Asia, opening its Tokyo office in 1955. The global legal practice also has offices in Beijing, Shanghai and Hong Kong.

The merger is subject to a Squire Sanders partner vote expected to conclude later this month.