Herbert Smith Freehills (HSF) is a leading global law firm with headquarters in London, England, and Sydney, Australia. Formed in 2012 through the merger of Herbert Smith and Freehills, the firm has a rich history dating back to 1882 and 1852, respectively. As of 2024, HSF employs over 2,600 lawyers across 26 offices worldwide, including key financial centers in Asia, Australia, Europe, North America, and the Middle East.
Company Values
In October 2023, HSF redefined its employee value proposition with 'Life@HSF', introducing new core values:
Human:
Emphasizing collaboration, generosity, kindness, and respect for others' contributions.
Bold:
Encouraging innovative thinking and confident decision-making.
Outstanding:
Striving for excellence in all aspects of work.
These values guide the firm's culture and operations, reflecting its commitment to adapting to the evolving legal landscape and maintaining a supportive work environment.
Global Presence
HSF offers a comprehensive range of legal services across various sectors, including:
Capital Markets:
Advising on debt, equity, and equity-linked transactions globally.
Mergers and Acquisitions:
Guiding clients through complex M&A transactions.
Dispute Resolution:
Renowned for handling high-value and complex litigation cases.
Energy and Infrastructure:
Providing legal expertise in energy projects and infrastructure development.
The firm's international reach allows it to respect and respond creatively to local differences in all its markets.
Recent Developments
In November 2024, HSF announced a merger with U.S.-based law firm Kramer Levin, effective May 1, 2025. The combined entity, Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer, will rank among the top 20 global law firms by headcount, with over 2,700 lawyers across 25 offices worldwide. This strategic move aims to enhance the firm's presence in the U.S. market and strengthen its capabilities in key sectors such as M&A, private capital, antitrust, and national security.