The combined firm will provide a global service to clients through seven offices in Asia, six in Europe and eight in the Americas, including a recently opened office in Brazil.

“This is a truly transformational event that makes Mayer Brown unique among global law firms,” observed that firm's Chairman, James D. Holzhauer.

“Our combination is an ideal strategic fit and offers enhanced global service to our multinational clients. JSM is the unquestioned leader among law firms in Asia, and the combination extends our capabilities geographically and broadens our exposure to the fastest growing economies in the world. The combined firm will have more than 1,000 lawyers in the United States, 500 in Europe and 300 in Asia," he added.

JSM is one of the oldest and largest law firms in Asia. It was established in 1863 in Hong Kong, and has full-service offices in Hong Kong, mainland China (Beijing, Guangzhou and Shanghai), Thailand (Bangkok) and Vietnam (Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City).

The combined firm will continue to be known as Mayer Brown outside of Asia. In Asia, it will be known as Mayer Brown JSM. The Asian offices will be managed by an Asia Board with Elaine Lo serving as Chairman of the Asia Board.