In the latest transatlantic merger between City law firms, top-10 international firm Norton Rose Fulbright announced today that it is combining with Bull Housser of British Columbia, Canada.

The combination will operate under the Norton Rose Fulbright name. It will add 92 lawyers, based in Vancouver and Shanghai, to Norton Rose Fulbright's headcount of 3,800 in 50 cities worldwide. 

The firms said they have complementary strengths and offer market leading capability in energy, mining, infrastructure, financial services, real estate, shipping, ports, life sciences and healthcare, and technology.

Peter Martyr, chief executive of Norton Rose Fulbright, said: 'We are one of the fastest-growing law firms in the world and in just over five years, have established a presence in Australia, Canada, South and North Africa, Latin America and Central Asia.

'The combination with Bull Housser, following our recent establishment of an office in San Francisco reinforces our growing Pacific Rim practice.'

Janet Grove, managing partner of Bull Housser, said: 'We have enjoyed good relationships with Norton Rose Fulbright over many years and believe that Norton Rose Fulbright reflects an approach to service, and has a culture of diversity and excellence, that is well-aligned with our own.

'Bull Housser’s move to Norton Rose Fulbright’s global platform delivers three key advantages for clients: innovative service offerings, improved efficiencies through advanced technology and systems and access to leading legal advisers around the globe.'

Following the merger Charles Hurdon will continue as Canadian managing partner for Norton Rose Fulbright and Grove will remain the managing partner of the Vancouver office.

Vancouver will retain its full range of legal services, the firm said.