Freeman Mathis & Gary, LLP Strengthens Presence in Midwest by Merging with Franke Schultz & Mullen, P.C.

Freeman Mathis & Gary, LLP Expands in the Midwest

Freeman Mathis & Gary, LLP (FMG Law), an Am Law 200 national litigation firm, has taken a significant step in its strategic growth by integrating the talented attorneys from Franke Schultz & Mullen, P.C. (FSM). This merger, announced on July 8, 2026, marks an important moment for FMG Law as it expands its footprint in the Midwest, establishing new offices in Kansas City, St. Louis, and Springfield, Missouri.

The addition of the FSM team, which brings with it 28 attorneys and 20 staff members, greatly enhances FMG Law's operational capabilities and solidifies its presence in key markets throughout Missouri and Kansas. Notably, FSM has cultivated a respected reputation over its 30-year history, focusing on civil litigation and becoming a formidable player in areas such as tort and catastrophic liability, products liability, and professional liability. This merger not only strengthens FMG's litigation capacity but also broadens its overall expertise within the region.

Ben Mathis, managing partner at FMG Law, expressed enthusiasm regarding the collaboration, stating, "We are focused on strategic growth that strengthens our ability to serve clients where they need us most. With the addition of John Franke, John Schultz, and John Mullen's highly regarded team to FMG Law, we now possess an impressive group of trial attorneys that enhances our service offerings. Their ledgers of courtroom experience and the success record they maintain will reverberate positively across our firm and client base."

John Franke, a founding member of FSM, echoed Mathis's sentiments, emphasizing the benefits of joining FMG Law. He remarked, "We share a commitment to superior client service and proven trial excellence, and this combination allows us to continue delivering positive results while providing our existing clients access to greater resources and a national platform."

This merger demonstrates FMG Law’s ongoing focus on expanding into high-demand litigation markets. With this development, the firm is well-positioned to cater to its clients more effectively across the Midwest, which is increasingly vital in today’s legal landscape where client needs demand swift and accessible solutions. The new locations will provide clients in Missouri, Kansas, and southern Illinois enhanced legal capabilities, further solidifying FMG’s prominence in the regional market.

Freeman Mathis & Gary, LLP is recognized for its extensive reach with over 575 attorneys spread across 22 states in 40 offices nationwide. The firm specializes in representing insurers, corporations, and institutions in complex litigation matters, combining strategic counsel with trial experience across diverse industries.

Meanwhile, Franke Schultz & Mullen, P.C., rooted firmly in the Midwest, is celebrated for its dedication to trial advocacy, providing legal services across various litigation matters. Their approach ensures both local businesses and Fortune 500 companies receive practical, results-driven legal counsel.

In conclusion, the merger between Freeman Mathis & Gary, LLP and Franke Schultz & Mullen, P.C. signifies not just a remarkable expansion for FMG Law in the Midwest, but also reflects the firm's commitment to ensuring that its service quality evolves alongside its client needs. With this enhanced legal prowess, FMG Law is on a promising trajectory towards achieving its mission of offering comprehensive legal solutions across the region.