Eversheds Sutherland brings Irish Offices In-House

In Short: Eversheds Sutherland will integrate its Irish offices into its international LLP from 15 September, bringing 170 lawyers and staff across Dublin and Belfast into the core business. The move follows the breakdown of merger talks with William Fry and is part of a wider strategy to expand in high-growth, international markets.

Key Legal Points to Discuss in Applications & Interviews:

1. Full Integration Signals Strategic Pivot Post-William Fry Talks
   The failed merger with William Fry might have seemed like a setback, but Eversheds is now doubling down on its own-brand expansion in Ireland. By pulling its Irish team fully into Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP, the firm is creating a more streamlined international structure — and sending a message that it's serious about growing independently in key markets.
2. Ireland’s Importance in the EU Legal Market
   Ireland holds a unique position as the EU’s only English-speaking, common law jurisdiction, which is hugely attractive to U.S. and international clients — especially in financial services and tech. The fact that Eversheds already advises 8 of the top 15 listed Irish companies shows just how embedded the firm is. For candidates, it’s an opportunity to get involved in cross-border work that spans data, banking, IP, and regulatory advice.
3. Consolidation Across Europe Continues
   This move follows earlier integrations in Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands. The trend: Eversheds is consolidating its European presence under one LLP, likely to boost efficiency, offer unified services to multinational clients, and compete more aggressively with firms like DLA Piper or Norton Rose Fulbright. The Dublin and Belfast teams will now operate alongside the wider Eversheds International platform — a strong sign of investment in the pan-European legal market.

Why This Matters:
Ireland is becoming even more pivotal post-Brexit, especially for financial services, tech and life sciences firms needing EU access. For law students and grads, Eversheds’ investment in Ireland means greater opportunities for international secondments, exposure to top-tier cross-border deals, and a firm culture that values strategic growth — especially if you’re eyeing roles in TMT, life sciences or FS regulation.