As the International Bar Association’s (IBA) 2025 Annual Conference kicks off this week in Toronto, Torys’ Managing Partner Matt Cockburn spoke to a report which highlights the growing significance and influence of independent law firms in cross-border legal work around the world.
“Independent firms have a vital role in the global legal market,” Matt told the Global Legal Post which covered the release of the report titled “Navigating Global Growth: A Playbook for Independent Law Firms”.
“Our ability to collaborate seamlessly across borders without the constraints of a single global structure allows us to deliver the right expertise for every client and every deal.”
The report was compiled by London-based consultancy MD Communications and draws on insights from law firms across 10 jurisdictions. It found that of the independent law firms surveyed as part of the study, 91% reported that “many of their international clients became repeat clients.” Additionally, 83% of firms reported that “up to a quarter of their referrals originated from IBA involvement.”
The report was also covered in the IBA Daily News.