Financial News Explores UK Firms’ Renewed Push Into the US Legal Market

Financial News has published a detailed analysis by Zoe Hu examining how the Magic Circle and other leading UK firms are accelerating their expansion efforts in the US - now viewed as essential to competing on a global scale. The article outlines the recent surge in high-profile lateral hires, new offices, and strategic mergers, all aimed at strengthening transatlantic platforms in the world’s most lucrative legal market.

The piece highlights how firms that once resisted the US market are now making significant investments across New York, Washington, Silicon Valley, Boston, Houston and beyond. From A&O Shearman’s landmark merger to Freshfields’ multi-year build-out and Clifford Chance’s rapidly growing New York bench, the article captures how UK firms are reshaping their strategies to compete with elite US rivals.

Macrae’s Rose Corbett, Managing Director in New York, provides insight into the momentum behind these moves, noting how practice-area depth, client connectivity and strategic hiring remain central to long-term success in the US. Her commentary underscores the broader theme of the article: firms must be bold, intentional and long-term in their approach if they want to gain meaningful ground.

Read the full article from Zoe Hu for Financial News here.

Please note: A subscription may be required to access the full article.

For more insights, connect directly with Rose Corbett or reach out to our team at Macrae here.