Ice Miller LLP, an American Lawyer 200 law firm with offices in Indiana, Illinois and Washington, D.C., has agreed to combine with Schottenstein Zox and Dunn Co., LPA (“SZD”), the fourth-largest Columbus, Ohio-based law firm. The move will become effective Jan. 1 of next year.
The law firm combination will create a regional firm of 314 lawyers with offices in Indianapolis; Columbus; Chicago; Cleveland; DuPage County, Ill.; and Washington, D.C. The combined firm, which will operate as Ice Miller LLP, will rank among the 150 largest law firms in the United States.
Each firm has a successful track record. SZD is known for handling complex business transactions and high-stakes commercial litigation, and serves the legal needs of many governmental entities throughout Ohio. Ice Miller is recognized for municipal finance, employee benefits, private equity and other business transactions, as well as complex litigation, real estate and public affairs. Each firm offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, creditors’ rights and intellectual property.
“SZD is a preeminent firm with a stellar reputation. Its clients, culture and Midwestern roots are a great fit,” said Phil Bayt, Ice Miller’s chief managing partner, who will continue in that role after the effective date. “This combination just makes sense for our clients and the firm.”
“Joining with Ice Miller presents a terrific opportunity for the firm and for our clients. The combination creates a bigger platform and even deeper levels of service, knowledge and experience,” said Jim Davidson, the president of SZD. “As one firm, our clients will be surrounded by a team of truly incredible and devoted counselors and advocates with enough experience to tackle any of their legal issues.”
