Husch, Blackwell talk merger

St. Louis-based Husch & Eppenberger LLC and Kansas City-based Blackwell Sanders LLP could have a merger decision by Dec. 31, according to a news release.

“Merger discussions are in their early stages, but our intentions are serious, and the prospects for this strategic combination are exciting,” Blackwell Chairman David A. Fenley said in the release.

“As with any merger talks, nothing is final until the deal is signed,” Fenley added.

The firms would combine their strategic strengths – Husch’s litigation practice and Blackwell’s corporate practice – for a “compelling fit,” said Husch Management Committee Chairman Joseph P. Conran in the release.

As of Sept. 1, Blackwell had 330 attorneys firmwide, and Husch had 300.

The combined firm would have 630 attorneys, 16 offices and anticipated revenues of $255 million, making it a Top 100 firm in the country, according to the release.

As of May, Blackwell is the largest law firm in the Springfield area, with 23 attorneys, and Husch ranks No. 5, with 18 attorneys, according to Springfield Business Journal’s list of Area’s Largest Law Firms.