For the seventh year in succession legal market researchers, Chambers Global, awarded Meritas the highest rated 'Elite' status in their annual rankings of Law Firm Networks.
Chambers outlines the exacting criteria for 'Elite' networks in their commentary for the 2021 guide:
"In the Elite category of the Leading Law Firm Networks section, the rankings focus on the most impressive independent law firm networks worldwide.
The chief criterion for a leading legal network, is that the member firms are independent of each other and any controlling entity. A law firm network's ranking in this section, is contingent on the rankings, and the ranking strength, of its member firms across the various Chambers Guides.
For the most part, the network should exist without relying on a central law firm. A strong law firm network positions itself as a cost-effective alternative to an international law firm with many international branches.
The networks considered demonstrate an added-value beyond the impressive membership statistics. This is established either through affirmative feedback from the members, or evidence provided in a submission document."
Swaab Managing Partner, Mary Digiglio said, "we're delighted to be a part of the Meritas global network of independent law firms. Swaab have been members since 2009 and, during that time, the network has provided our clients immediate access to trusted legal advisors in other countries and across Australia. It's also provided our lawyers with unique professional development opportunities and a global network of contacts."
About Meritas
Meritas is a global alliance of independent, market-leading law firms that provides legal services to companies looking to effectively capture opportunities and solve issues anywhere in the world. Clients benefit from local knowledge, collective strength and new efficiencies when they work with Meritas law firms. The personal attention and care they experience is part of Meritas' industry-first commitment to the utmost in quality of service and putting client priorities above all else. Founded in 1990, Meritas has member firms in 247 markets worldwide with nearly 8,000 dedicated, collaborative lawyers.
Member firms in Australia and New Zealand
- Martelli McKegg, Auckland https://www.meritas.org/firm/Martelli-McKegg-Auckland ]
- Bennett & Philp, Brisbane https://www.meritas.org/firm/Bennett-Philp-Lawyers-Brisbane
- DMAW Lawyers, Adelaide https://www.meritas.org/firm/DMAW-Lawyers-Adelaide
- Madgwicks, Melbourne https://www.meritas.org/firm/Madgwicks-Melbourne
- Swaab, Sydney https://www.meritas.org/firm/Swaab-Sydney
- Williams + Hughes, Perth https://www.meritas.org/firm/Williams-Hughes-Lawyers-Perth