What's Happening?
Minneapolis-based law firm Moss & Barnett, established in 1892, is set to merge with Cozen O’Connor, an international law firm headquartered in Philadelphia. The merger, effective January 1, aims to enhance Cozen O’Connor’s presence in the Midwest by
adding over 50 attorneys from Moss & Barnett. Cozen O’Connor, founded in 1970, is ranked 77th by The American Lawyer based on its 2024 gross revenue of $708 million. The merger is part of a broader trend of regional law firms consolidating to offer more comprehensive services. Key practice areas from Moss & Barnett include real estate, corporate, and intellectual property law.
Why It's Important?
This merger signifies a strategic expansion for Cozen O’Connor, allowing it to strengthen its service offerings in the Midwest, a region deemed strategically important for the firm and its clients. The integration of Moss & Barnett’s expertise in various legal fields will enhance Cozen O’Connor’s ability to meet client demands for depth and breadth in legal services. This move reflects a larger trend in the legal industry where firms are merging to remain competitive and provide a wider array of services, potentially impacting the legal landscape in Minneapolis and beyond.
What's Next?
Following the merger, Cozen O’Connor plans to relocate its Minneapolis office to Moss & Barnett’s current location, making it the firm’s fourth-largest office. The firm intends to seek new office space in Minneapolis to accommodate the expanded team. This merger may prompt other regional firms to consider similar consolidations to enhance their competitive edge and service capabilities.
