Will Bingham lose its London managing partner? Merger talks said to spur possible exodus
Bingham McCutchen could lose London managing partner James Roome along with several other international partners if the firm pursues merger talks with Morgan, Lewis & Bockius, according to a published report.
Four former Bingham partners who asked for anonymity told the Am Law Daily (sub. req.) that Roome was in talks to leave the firm, and Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld was one of the suitors. Roome is co-chair of Bingham’s global financial restructuring group in London, which focuses on international insolvency and hedge-fund advisory work.
According to the story, “Roome is one of Bingham’s biggest rainmakers—one former partner called his potential defection a ‘huge economic loss’ for the firm—with a highly regarded practice representing bondholders in insolvency proceedings in the U.K. and continental Europe.” The story says there could be “a mass exodus” of lawyers from the London office if Roome leaves.
Though past coverage said Bingham has approached at least four law firms in its search for a merger partner, “Morgan Lewis has moved into the pole position for a potential deal,” the Am Law Daily says, relying on anonymous sources.
Prior coverage:
ABAJournal.com: “Bingham McCutchen reportedly has approached 4 major firms seeking a merger partner”
ABAJournal.com: “Did prior merger cause financial issues for Bingham?”
