Silver Circle Explained

The Silver Circle refers to a group of law firms in the United Kingdom that are seen as prestigious and influential, although slightly smaller in size and global reach compared to the magic circle firms. While the definition of the silver circle may vary, these firms are typically known for their high-quality legal services and significant presence in the UK legal market. Here are some law firms commonly associated with the silver circle:

Ashurst: It is an international law firm with its headquarters in London. It has a strong reputation in finance, corporate, and dispute resolution matters. Ashurst has a notable presence in Europe, Asia, and Australia.

Herbert Smith Freehills: It is a global law firm formed through a merger between UK-based Herbert Smith and Australian firm Freehills. The firm is recognised for its expertise in various practice areas, including corporate, finance, disputes, and projects.

Macfarlanes: It is a London-based law firm known for its corporate and private client work. It serves a range of clients, including multinational corporations, financial institutions, and high-net-worth individuals.

Travers Smith: It is a full-service law firm based in London, known for its commercial, corporate, and finance practices. It primarily serves clients in the financial services, private equity, and technology sectors.

Weil, Gotshal & Manges: It is an international law firm with offices in London and other major cities worldwide. The firm is recognised for its corporate, private equity, and restructuring practices.

These firms are often considered to be a step below the magic circle firms in terms of size and global reach. However, they still maintain a strong reputation and handle substantial transactions and legal matters for domestic and international clients. The term "silver circle" is not officially defined, and the composition of the firms included may vary depending on different perspectives and interpretations within the legal industry.