While the Steel Hector merger gave the Cleveland-based firm a gateway to Latin America, the merger with Hammonds provides the firm with a network of offices throughout Europe.

After more than two months of talks, London-based Hammonds agreed to merge with Squire effective Jan. 1, 2011. The new firm will have 1,275 lawyers in 37 offices in 17 countries and become a significant player in the international arena. In the United States, the firm will retain the Squire Sanders & Dempsey name.