Womble Bond Dickinson and BDB Pitmans in talks over merger

In a statement announcing the possible move, the firms said: "Leading transatlantic law firm Womble Bond Dickinson and leading UK firm BDB Pitmans confirm that they are in early discussions around a potential merger.

"Both firms regularly review opportunities to advance the best interests of their clients and their respective firms."

It added: "Womble Bond Dickinson and BDB Pitmans are focused on where they see the greatest opportunities for a merged business, including those offered by complementary practice areas and office locations."

The firms said that discussions are “ongoing”.

Womble Bond Dickinson markets itself as a "transatlantic" law firm following a 2017 merger between UK-based Bond Dickinson LLP and US-based Womble Carlyle Sandridge & Rice, LLP. It has 23 offices in the US and a further 7 in the UK.

BDB Pitmans is the smaller of the two firms and has offices in London, Cambridge, Reading and Southampton.

Adam Carey