Adam Griffiths

The UK-led business of Taylor Wessing, which includes the Irish office opened in 2021, is set to merge with US firm Winston & Strawn in May 2026.

The combined firm will include more than 1,400 lawyers, primarily in the US, the UK and Europe, but also in Latin America and the Middle East.

As part of the combination, Taylor Wessing in the Netherlands and Belgium will enter into an agreement with Winston Taylor to operate under the Winston Taylor brand.

Subject to approvals and a vote of the partners in each firm, the merger will unite two international firms with more than 400 years of combined history.

Steve D’Amore, chairman of Winston & Strawn, will continue as chairman of the combined firm.

“Once combined, we will have a London-headquartered partner that fulfils our long-held ambition to grow in the UK, while preserving the culture, agility, focus, and relentless client service that define Winston & Strawn,” Mr D’Amore said.

“This combination will establish an elite practice in the major commercial centres important to our clients. Winston Taylor will be positioned to lead on the most sophisticated litigation and transactions in the world’s most defining industries.”

Shane Gleghorn, managing partner of Taylor Wessing UK, will serve as managing partner of Europe and Middle East for Winston Taylor and will become a member of its executive committee.

Mr Gelghorn said: “In Winston & Strawn, Taylor Wessing UK will have a US partner that shares our vision, our values, and culture, and absolute focus on the highest levels of client service.

“By combining Winston & Strawn’s strength in the major hubs across the United States with our coverage of the key centres of London, Europe, and the Middle East we will have created a firm with the highest level of transatlantic capabilities in key practices and sectors.”