Mega merger alert: Lathrop GPM and Hopkins Carley join forces, creating a 360-attorney legal giant

Lathrop GPM and Hopkins Carley have announced their strategic combination, effective October 1, 2024, creating a formidable national law firm with a combined total of 360 attorneys. The merger brings together Lathrop GPM, an AmLaw 200 firm, and Hopkins Carley, a leading Silicon Valley-based law firm known for its expertise in various legal domains.

This strategic combination will significantly reshape the legal landscape, merging Lathrop GPM’s extensive national footprint with Hopkins Carley’s strong regional presence in California.

Lathrop GPM’s Profile and Evolution

Lathrop GPM, established in 2001, has consistently been recognized for its broad range of legal services, which includes corporate, tax, business transactions, labor and employment, franchise law, litigation, intellectual property, private client services, real estate, and trusts and estates. With more than 360 attorneys and legal professionals distributed across 13 offices nationwide, the firm is a key player in the AmLaw 200. Known for its commitment to legal excellence and client service, Lathrop GPM has received accolades for its diversity and inclusion efforts, holding Mansfield Rule 5.0 Certification Plus status and being recognized with the Top Performer and Compass Award by the Leadership Council on Legal Diversity. Additionally, the firm is affiliated with Multilaw and Employment Law Alliance, providing it with global resources through more than 90 independent law firms across 100 countries.

Hopkins Carley’s Profile and Legacy

Founded in 1964, Hopkins Carley has built a distinguished reputation in the California legal market. The firm operates from its offices in San Jose and Redwood Shores and specializes in business litigation, intellectual property, real estate, employment, estate planning, and corporate, tax, and business transactions. With a client base that includes entrepreneurs, high-net-worth individuals, business owners, and midsize and public companies, Hopkins Carley is renowned for its high-quality legal services and deep expertise in Silicon Valley’s dynamic and diverse economy.

Strategic Significance of the Merger

The merger will create one of the largest full-service legal teams in the United States. By integrating 62 attorneys from Hopkins Carley, Lathrop GPM’s total attorney headcount will increase by approximately 25%, reaching a total of 360 attorneys. This merger is expected to bolster Lathrop GPM’s capabilities across multiple practice areas, including Private Client Services, Real Estate, and more. The addition of Hopkins Carley’s expertise will nearly double the size of Lathrop GPM’s real estate practice and enhance its strength in litigation, labor and employment, intellectual property, and corporate, tax, and business transactions.

Office Expansion and Geographical Reach

The inclusion of Hopkins Carley’s San Jose and Redwood Shores offices will significantly expand Lathrop GPM’s geographic footprint. The new offices will become the firm’s third and fourth largest locations, following its Kansas City and Minneapolis offices. This expansion will enhance Lathrop GPM’s national presence, providing it with a robust coast-to-coast reach and an increased capacity to serve clients with diverse business interests across the United States.

Enhanced Client Services and Future Prospects

The merger will expand and enhance Lathrop GPM’s client services, particularly for those with business dealings throughout the U.S. Clients will benefit from the firm’s strengthened California presence and broadened service offerings. This includes the integration of Hopkins Carley’s specialized practices in trust and estates, real estate, labor and employment, corporate and business litigation, and intellectual property.

Jennifer Johnson, Managing Shareholder for Hopkins Carley, expressed enthusiasm about the merger’s prospects, stating, “We are proud of our distinguished 60-year legacy in California and excited to enter a new partnership that increases the services our clients trust us to provide.” She highlighted that the merger will bring expanded practices, a coast-to-coast presence, and new technologies and innovations, positioning the firm to better serve its pioneering client base.

The merger of Lathrop GPM and Hopkins Carley represents a significant development in the legal industry, combining two highly respected firms to create a powerful national legal presence. The new Lathrop GPM will be well-positioned to leverage its expanded resources and expertise to deliver enhanced legal services and support to a diverse client base, while continuing to uphold its commitment to client service and community engagement.