Page "Law firm" Paragraph 15

Mergers, acquisitions, division and reorganizations occur between law firms as in other businesses.

The specific books of business and specialization of attorneys as well as the professional ethical structures surrounding conflict of interest can lead to firms splitting up to pursue different clients or practices, or merging or recruiting experienced attorneys to acquire new clients or practice areas.

Results often vary between firms experiencing such transitions.

Firms that gain new practice areas or departments through recruiting or mergers that are more complex and demanding ( and typically more profitable ) may see the focus, organization and resources of the firm shift dramatically towards those new departments.

Conversely, firms may be merged among experienced attorneys as partners for purposes of shared financing and resources, while the different departments and practice areas within the new firm retain a significant degree of autonomy.