This month sees the launch of KLegal International, an association of law firms in a number of countries which is soon expected to total 50, forming one of the world's biggest law networks. KLegal International is a parallel organisation to KPMG International, the global professional services organisation.
Initially, six law firms will be the founders of a Swiss Verein (association agreement), with other legal practices preparing to join over the next few months where local law permits. The six firms are KPMG Legal (Australia), Fidal (France), Widgen, Spielmann, Metzler & Ries (Luxembourg), Steins Bisschop Meijburg & Co (Netherlands), KPMG Abogados (Spain) and KLegal (UK). KLegal International does not currently offer legal services in North America due to regulatory restrictions.
Jean-Louis Paul, Chairman, KLegal International said: 'Today's announcement is a vital step on the road to the creation of a thriving legal network. Membership of KLegal International requires the implementation of common standards and business models giving rise to a uniform quality of advice, which clients require on global assignments. KLegal International is also making significant investments in a cutting-edge global knowledge management system'.
He added: 'The move also represents the culmination of the long-standing development of law as a core service for KPMG outside North America. While member firms of KLegal International are separate and independent, they have good working relationships with their colleagues within KPMG. Clients increasingly demand multi-disciplinary solutions to business problems, particularly on global assignments.'
At this time, 1,800 lawyers in the worldwide firms are preparing to join KLegal International. An active recruitment campaign will look to increase expertise at all levels in each of the key areas, which correspond to KPMG's own core areas, including:
- Corporate and Commercial Law
- Banking and Financial Services Law
- Competition Law
- Employment/Labour Law
- Intellectual Property Law
- E-commerce
- Estates and Trusts
Jean-Louis Paul said: 'We are committed to becoming a truly integrated top tier law network specialising in those areas of law which complement the offerings of KPMG. We are confident that both students and experienced senior lawyers will see the multi-disciplinary approach as the way forward. We believe this approach will generate substantial growth, and will offer lawyers outstanding opportunities and a different career path from the traditional law firms'.
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