Michael Best & Friedrich announced the merger in May 2001. The combined firm, which now totals over 100 lawyers, relocated from 77 W. Wacker Dr. downtown.

Richard Schuham, EVP, and Lisa Davidson, corporate managing director, of Julien J. Studley Inc., negotiated for the expanded law firm in the transaction. The owner of 401 N. Michigan, Equitable Life Assurance Society, was represented by Mark Gunderson of Jones Lang LaSalle.

According to Schuham, this is one of the first major leases in Downtown Chicago this year that has occurred as a result of M&A activity. "We expect to see substantial additional shifting among the larger law practices throughout the year in Chicago," he says.Law Firm Merger Results in Sizable Relocation LeaseTwo prominent local law firms, which merged recently, relocate and expand to take prime space on Chicago's Magnificent Mile.Bonnie GrotaCHICAGO-The merger of two Chicago area law firms, Michael Best & Friedrich and Schwartz & Freeman, has resulted in a new office lease for 66,400 sf at 401 N. Michigan Ave. on the Magnificent Mile. The deal included 29,400 sf of expansion space. All together, Michael Best & Friedrich has gained 55 attorneys from Schwartz & Freeman. The firm will continue to operate under the Michael Best & Friedrich name.

Michael Best & Friedrich announced the merger in May 2001. The combined firm, which now totals over 100 lawyers, relocated from 77 W. Wacker Dr. downtown.

Richard Schuham, EVP, and Lisa Davidson, corporate managing director, of Julien J. Studley Inc., negotiated for the expanded law firm in the transaction. The owner of 401 N. Michigan, Equitable Life Assurance Society, was represented by Mark Gunderson of Jones Lang LaSalle.

According to Schuham, this is one of the first major leases in Downtown Chicago this year that has occurred as a result of M&A activity. "We expect to see substantial additional shifting among the larger law practices throughout the year in Chicago," he says.