The recently announced merger between US firm Squire, Sanders & Dempsey LLP and UK firm Hammonds LLP will create one of the world's largest law firms, Squire Sanders, and is the result of growing client demand for global expertise at the right price.

"The pace of the business world is accelerating. Clients expect their law firms to embrace change and seize opportunity, even in a challenging business climate," said Squire Sanders chair James J. Maiwurm.

"We hear our clients and know they consider cost-effective global counsel the norm, not the exception. The combination of our firms is designed for the times and positioned for the future. We will continue to seek bold solutions for clients wherever their business takes them, and we will do this in a collaborative fashion that makes us both an inviting place to work and a great choice for clients."

With approximately 1,275 lawyers in 37 offices and 17 countries, Squire Sanders will be among the top 25 global legal practices, based on the number of lawyers.

Hammonds managing partner Peter Crossley summed up the merger in a simpler manner: "We are delighted to report that clients' reactions reflect what we concluded after we began discussions with Squire Sanders. Simply put, we are better together," he said.

The combined legal practice will mean the firm has a strong presence in the UK, Continental Europe, Latin America, Asia and the United States.

The merger will take effect from 1 January 2011.