Herbert Smith Freehills

Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer LLP, better known as HSF Kramer, is a global law firm that traces its roots to two prestigious practices on opposite sides of the world. In 2012, the UK's Herbert Smith, a member of the elite Silver Circle, merged with Freehills, one of Australia's Big Six firms, creating a transcontinental powerhouse. The firm's dual headquarters sit in London and Sydney, and by 2024 it ranked as the 33rd largest law firm globally by revenue.

In a move that reshaped the legal landscape, Herbert Smith Freehills announced a merger with New York-based Kramer Levin, effective 1 May 2025. The combined entity, now operating as Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer, brings together deep expertise in corporate law, litigation, and regulatory matters across Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Americas. The merger reflects a broader trend of consolidation among top-tier firms seeking to serve clients on a truly global scale.

The firm's heritage is a story of two institutions with distinct identities. Herbert Smith, founded in 1882, built a reputation for commercial law and dispute resolution, while Freehills, established in 1852, was a cornerstone of Australian legal practice. Their union created a firm with over 5,000 lawyers across 30 offices, known for its work on major cross-border transactions and high-stakes disputes. The addition of Kramer Levin, a firm with a strong presence in New York and Paris, extends that reach into the world's largest legal market. [edit]