DLA Piper stands as one of the world's largest law firms, operating across more than 40 countries throughout the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific. The firm has established itself as a powerhouse in international legal services, with approximately 5,274 lawyers and generating revenue of $4.2 billion annually. What sets DLA Piper apart from many competitors is its truly global reach – the firm ranks third in the Am Law 200 and Global 200 rankings, making it one of the most influential legal practices on the planet.
The firm's origins trace back to 2005, when three established law firms merged: San Diego–based Gray Cary Ware & Freidenrich LLP, Baltimore-based Piper Rudnick LLP, and United Kingdom–based DLA LLP. This transatlantic merger created what was, at the time, one of the largest law firms globally and the biggest in the UK. The structure operates as a Swiss Verein, allowing multiple partnerships to function under a shared global network whilst maintaining local flexibility and expertise in each jurisdiction.
DLA Piper's service offerings span virtually every area of commercial law. The firm's core practice areas include corporate and finance, employment law, government affairs, intellectual property and technology, litigation and arbitration, real estate, and tax advisory services. Within these broad categories, the firm has developed particular expertise in sectors such as energy, financial services, technology, life sciences, and hospitality. This sector-focused approach allows the firm to provide specialized knowledge tailored to specific industries, rather than just general legal advice.
In the UK specifically, DLA Piper maintains multiple offices, with its London headquarters serving as a major hub for European operations. The firm has consistently been recognized for its work in areas such as banking and finance, where it advises on complex international transactions, and corporate M&A, where it handles some of the largest deals in the market. The firm's UK presence is particularly strong in advising on cross-border matters, where its international network provides seamless coordination across jurisdictions.
The firm has developed several notable initiatives that extend beyond traditional legal services. New Perimeter, launched in 2005, is DLA Piper's nonprofit affiliate providing long-term pro bono legal assistance in underserved regions worldwide. The firm also runs a Global Scholarships Program supporting law students from developing countries, providing mentoring, internships, training and career preparation. These programs reflect the firm's commitment to using its resources and expertise for broader social impact.
DLA Piper's approach to client service emphasizes innovation and practical solutions. The firm has invested heavily in legal technology and alternative service delivery models, recognizing that clients increasingly demand efficiency alongside expertise. This includes developing proprietary tools for contract management, regulatory compliance tracking, and deal management. The firm's innovation extends to its business model, with flexible fee arrangements and value-based pricing becoming increasingly common alongside traditional hourly billing.
The firm's client roster includes many Fortune 500 companies, government entities, and emerging growth companies. In recent years, DLA Piper has handled significant matters including advising on major infrastructure projects, complex regulatory investigations, and transformative M&A transactions. The firm's ability to mobilize resources across offices means it can staff large matters quickly whilst maintaining consistent quality standards.
For potential clients considering DLA Piper, the firm offers several contact methods. While specific email addresses and phone numbers vary by office and practice area, the main website provides comprehensive directories for reaching appropriate teams. The London office, located in the heart of the city's financial district, serves as the primary contact point for many UK and European matters. The firm maintains a 24/7 approach to client service, recognizing that legal needs often arise outside traditional business hours.
Recent developments at DLA Piper include continued geographic expansion and practice area growth. The firm has been particularly active in building its technology and life sciences capabilities, recognizing these as growth areas for legal services. Environmental, social and governance (ESG) advisory has also become a significant focus, with dedicated teams helping clients navigate increasing regulatory requirements and stakeholder expectations in this area.
