Herbert Smith Freehills
Herbert Smith Freehills
Herbert Smith Freehills is a prominent multinational law firm that has significantly impacted the legal industry through its global presence and comprehensive service offerings. Formed from a merger between two leading entities, the firm represents a union of deep legal expertise and extensive geographical reach.
Historical Background
Herbert Smith Freehills was established on October 1, 2012, through the merger of the British law firm Herbert Smith LLP and the Australian firm Freehills. The merger was a strategic move to enhance the firms' capabilities, enabling them to offer a broader range of legal services across different markets.
- Herbert Smith LLP: Founded in 1882 by Norman Herbert Smith, the firm developed a strong reputation within the UK as a leader in high-stakes litigation and corporate law.
- Freehills: With its roots in Australia, Freehills was already a prominent force in the Asia-Pacific region, known for its prowess in corporate law, dispute resolution, and intellectual property.
Global Presence
Herbert Smith Freehills operates on a global scale, with offices spanning across Europe, Asia, Australia, the Middle East, and the United States. The firm is recognized for its ability to deliver high-quality legal services across multiple jurisdictions, making it a preferred choice for multinational corporations, financial institutions, and governmental bodies.
Areas of Expertise
The firm's services cover a wide array of legal fields, including but not limited to:
- Corporate Law: Providing strategic advice on mergers and acquisitions, capital markets, and corporate governance.
- Dispute Resolution: Renowned for handling complex litigation and arbitration cases, often involving cross-border elements.
- Finance: Advising on banking and financial transactions, including project finance and asset management.
- Employment Law: Offering comprehensive employment and industrial relations services.
- Intellectual Property: Protecting clients' intellectual assets through effective IP strategies and litigation.
Recent Developments
In 2025, Herbert Smith Freehills merged with the American law firm Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel to form Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer. This merger further expanded the firm's reach, particularly enhancing its capabilities in the United States market, making it one of the world's largest law firms by revenue and number of lawyers.
Academic and Professional Influence
Herbert Smith Freehills holds a prominent place in the academic realm as well, with partnerships and scholarships tied to institutions such as the University of Sydney. These initiatives reflect the firm's commitment to fostering the next generation of legal professionals.