#United States #Atlanta #Law Firm #Morris Manning #Taft

Taft and Morris, Manning & Martin Announce Merger

In a significant move within the legal landscape, Taft Stettinius & Hollister (Taft), one of the fastest-growing law firms in the United States, is set to merge with Morris, Manning & Martin (MMM), a reputable firm with extensive offices in Atlanta and Washington, D.C. This merger, slated to take effect on December 31, 2025, represents a strategic initiative for Taft to broaden its influence in the legal sector and solidify its position as a leading middle-market firm.

The combination will introduce over 100 lawyers to Taft’s roster and expand its service offerings significantly across the Southeast. This partnership is not just a simple merging of brands but a calculated step towards creating a formidable presence in the legal markets of Atlanta and D.C. After the merger, Taft will boast over 1,200 lawyers across 25 offices nationwide, with the combined revenue projections exceeding $1 billion.

Simon Malko, Managing Partner of Morris Manning, expressed enthusiasm about the merger, emphasizing the strong alignment in terms of culture and strategic vision. He remarked, “From our very first conversation, it was clear that Taft was the right match for our firm. We immediately connected on the things that matter the most—culture, core values, client service, and strategic vision.” With nearly half a century of service in the legal field, Morris Manning brings a wealth of experience in areas such as real estate, litigation, and corporate law. This merger will leverage that experience with Taft's innovative operational model to enhance client service across the United States.

Morris Manning is well-regarded within the Am Law 200 rankings, known for its dominance in sectors such as International Trade, Real Estate Investment, and Corporate Law. Notably, the firm has received numerous accolades, including top-tier rankings in the 2025 Chambers USA guide, and has even been designated as the #1 real estate law firm in Atlanta by The Daily Report. The accolades are a testament to the firm's commitment to providing sophisticated counsel across a variety of industries.

Starting in 2026, the newly formed entity will operate under a combined brand in Atlanta and Washington, D.C., as both firms embark on a smooth transition, enhancing Taft’s recognition in these major markets. Robert J. Hicks, Chairman and Managing Partner at Taft, before the merger, remarked on the positive attributes of Morris Manning, indicating their shared values and collaborative culture as strong reasons behind the merger. He stated, “We are excited to welcome this talented group of lawyers to Taft, who are representative of Morris Manning's excellent reputation. They share our client-driven approach and are dedicated lawyers embedded in the local legal community.”

This merger is part of Taft's broader expansion strategy, which has seen significant growth through various strategic partnerships in recent years. Earlier in 2025, Taft expanded into the Mountain West region by merging with Sherman & Howard, thereby solidifying its presence and increasing its lawyer count substantially. Furthermore, Taft's entry into the Southeast was marked by its merger with Mrachek Law, a litigation boutique in Florida.

As a firm with a history dating back to 1885, Taft has transformed significantly over the decades and has dedicated itself to building a comprehensive platform for client service nationwide. The firm is not only recognized for its growth but also for its commitment to modern practices, which have bolstered its status within the legal community, featuring in highly respected rankings such as Chambers USA and Super Lawyers.

In conclusion, the merger between Taft and Morris Manning signifies a robust trajectory towards enhancing legal services and expanding geographical coverage, setting the stage for both firms to excel and serve a wider range of clients effectively. Clients can expect an enriched legal experience with an array of expanded service offerings as both firms integrate their strengths and expertise moving forward.