Law Firms Cross the Pond In Unique Alliance

Rather than opt for a transatlantic merger, U.S. law firm Womble Carlyle Sandridge & Rice announced it will form a unique alliance with U.K. firm Bond Dickinson. The firms explained that they will forge close ties, pass work back and forth, jointly pitch clients, and send attorneys to work in each other’s offices. “A merger’s not necessary for our firms,” said Womble CEO Elizabeth Temple. “Because our cultures are both so open and transparent, we can do it with an alliance.” The deal is set for five years, with options to renew.