Law firms merge to create legal giant

The deal, originally announced in August, sees the former head of the Leeds office, Jonathan Jones, take a seat on the global management board. He is one of five legacy Hammonds partners on the board of 13.

James Maiwurm, chairman and global chief executive officer of the newly enlarged firm, said: "This combination, which dramatically expands our global practice, ensures that Squire Sanders will keep stride with our clients, who we know need to stay a step ahead to take full advantage of opportunities and remain competitive in this era of rapid economic change."

Also on the board is Peter Crossley, the former managing partner of Hammonds, who has become Squire Sanders' managing partner for Europe.

Hammonds had strong roots in Yorkshire. It was founded as a one-man firm in Bradford in the late 19th century by Albert Hammond.