DLA Piper LLP is one of the largest and most recognized law firms in the world. It provides legal services to companies, governments, financial institutions, and nonprofit organizations across many industries. The firm operates in the global legal services sector and maintains offices in more than 40 countries.
DLA Piper was formally created in 2005 through a major international merger. At that time, many businesses were expanding across borders and needed legal partners who could support them in multiple regions. Traditional law firms often worked only within one country. DLA Piper’s founders saw an opportunity to build a firm that could serve clients on a truly global scale. Their goal was to combine strong local knowledge with international reach. Today, the firm works as a global network under a Swiss Verein structure, which allows member firms to operate locally while sharing a common brand and standards.
Founders & Leadership
DLA Piper LLP does not have a single founder. Instead, it was formed through the merger of well-established law firms. The main partners in the 2005 merger were DLA LLP in the United Kingdom and Piper Rudnick Gray Cary in the United States. These firms brought together decades of legal experience and strong regional reputations. The leaders behind the merger believed that the future of legal services depended on cross-border cooperation. They wanted to create a firm that could compete with top law firms in both Europe and North America while expanding into Asia, the Middle East, and other growing markets.
Today, the firm is led by Global Co-Chief Executive Officers Frank Ryan and Charles Severs. They oversee the firm’s strategy, growth, and daily operations. Another key leader is Jon Hayes, who serves as Global Co-Chair and Senior Partner. Together, this leadership team focuses on strengthening client relationships, improving internal systems, and guiding the firm’s long-term vision.
Rise & Growth Journey
The turning point in DLA Piper LLP’s history came in 2005 with its transatlantic merger. This move created one of the first large law firms with a strong presence on both sides of the Atlantic. In 2008, the merger with Gray Cary further expanded the firm’s reach in California and Asia.
These expansions helped DLA Piper grow quickly, but they also created challenges. Lawyers from different countries had different working styles, legal systems, and business cultures. The firm invested heavily in training, communication, and shared technology to create a unified organization.
During the global financial crisis of 2008–2009, DLA Piper supported banks, corporations, and investors facing major legal and regulatory problems. Its ability to handle complex international cases strengthened its reputation. In later years, the firm played a key role in technology deals, energy projects, and infrastructure developments around the world. Step by step, DLA Piper built a strong global brand based on reliability and scale.
Products & Services
DLA Piper offers professional legal services rather than physical products. Its main practice areas include corporate law, mergers and acquisitions, banking and finance, litigation, employment law, real estate, intellectual property, regulatory compliance, and tax.
One of the firm’s greatest strengths is its ability to manage cross-border work. For example, when a company in the United States acquires a business in Europe and Asia, DLA Piper can coordinate lawyers in each region. This integrated approach helps clients save time and reduce legal risks. The firm also supports startups and fast-growing companies. It helps them raise capital, protect their inventions, and prepare for public listings. Governments and public institutions use DLA Piper for policy advice, infrastructure projects, and international agreements.
Achievements & Impact
DLA Piper consistently ranks among the world’s largest law firms by revenue and number of lawyers. In 2024, the firm reported global revenue of more than $4.2 billion, making it the first law firm to cross the $4 billion mark. The firm employs thousands of lawyers and staff in over 90 offices worldwide. Many legal directories and industry publications regularly recognize DLA Piper for excellence in corporate law, litigation, and international work.
Its impact goes beyond business success. In the United States, the firm supports companies that create jobs and develop new technologies. Globally, it helps clients follow legal and ethical standards in complex markets. DLA Piper is also known for its strong commitment to pro bono work. Its lawyers provide free legal services to refugees, charities, veterans, and underserved communities. Each year, the firm contributes hundreds of thousands of hours to public service projects.
Culture & Values
DLA Piper promotes values such as integrity, teamwork, respect, and responsibility. The firm encourages lawyers to collaborate across borders and share knowledge freely.
Diversity and inclusion are central to its workplace culture. The firm runs leadership programs for women and minority lawyers and supports equal opportunity in hiring and promotion. It also focuses on employee well-being through flexible working arrangements and mental health initiatives. For clients, DLA Piper emphasizes clear communication, practical advice, and long-term partnerships. Many global corporations remain loyal to the firm because of its consistent service and international coverage.
Looking ahead, DLA Piper plans to continue expanding in fast-growing regions such as Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. It is also strengthening its presence in sectors like technology, renewable energy, healthcare, and life sciences.
The firm invests in digital tools and secure data systems to improve efficiency and client service. These technologies help lawyers manage large volumes of information and deliver faster results. Sustainability is another important priority. DLA Piper has announced goals to reduce its environmental impact and support clients working on climate-related projects and clean energy initiatives. In the long term, the firm aims to remain a trusted legal partner in an increasingly complex global economy.
