Ashurst

Ashurst is a leading global law firm headquartered in London, United Kingdom, with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1822 by William Henry Ashurst. Over its two-century legacy, the firm has evolved from a local practice into a multinational powerhouse, recognised as a member of the prestigious 'Silver Circle' of UK law firms. Ashurst provides comprehensive legal and advisory services to a diverse clientele, including local and international corporations, financial institutions, and government bodies across a wide array of sectors. Its core business encompasses complex cross-border transactions, disputes, and projects, offering world-class capability in areas such as corporate, banking and finance, and energy and infrastructure.

The firm's growth has been marked by strategic expansion and a commitment to innovation. Initially known as 'Ashurst Morris Crisp' for over 130 years, it significantly broadened its global footprint, particularly across Asia-Pacific, through a pivotal merger with Australian firm Blake Dawson in 2012. This expansion positioned Ashurst as a genuinely international player with 30-32 offices spanning 18-20 countries across Asia, Australia, Europe, the Middle East, and North America. In a significant development for its US presence, Ashurst announced in November 2025 its intent to combine with US firm Perkins Coie, creating a combined entity to be known as Ashurst Perkins Coie, poised to rank among the world's top 20 law firms by revenue. This strategic combination underscores Ashurst's dedication to meeting clients' needs on a global scale.

What sets Ashurst apart is its integrated approach, seamlessly blending traditional legal advice with innovative solutions through its Ashurst Advance division, which offers risk consulting and NewLaw services. The firm is celebrated for its progressive mindset, constantly striving to outpace change and deliver practical, commercial outcomes that go beyond mere legal issues. Key achievements include a decade of consecutive revenue growth, surpassing £1 billion in 2025 (from 2024 results), and an average profit per equity partner of £1.39 million in 2024. Ashurst was also the first global law firm to roll out Harvey, an AI solution for the legal sector, across its offices, and has been recognised as the 'Most Innovative Law Firm in APAC (headquartered outside APAC)' in 2024 and 2025. The firm's commitment to innovation and client-centric solutions drives its competitive edge.

Ashurst's leadership is steered by Global Chair Karen Davies, who was re-elected for a second term effective August 2025, and Global Chief Executive Officer Paul Jenkins, reappointed for a four-year term in late 2022. Both leaders are instrumental in driving the firm's strategic direction, emphasising collaboration, inclusion, and technological adoption. The firm's founders, like William Henry Ashurst, were historically active against injustice, supporting causes such as the Great Reform Bill and the abolition of slavery, reflecting an enduring commitment to societal impact. Today, Ashurst continues to foster a culture of diversity and inclusion, aiming to deliver unparalleled legal services by bringing together diverse and innovative professionals. Their long-standing history of social responsibility is woven into the firm's ethos.