In a Time of Transition, Mayer Brown Looks to Its Trio of Leaders

Five years after its merger with Rowe & Maw made it one of the largest law firms in the world, Chicago-based Mayer, Brown, Rowe & Maw's controlling partners are rumored to be in a turf war for control, with the future of the firm resting in the hands of the London office's managing partner, Paul Maher. Meanwhile, at least 20 partner defections in New York, sagging profits in the New York and London offices, a controversial de-equitization of partners and a looming malpractice suit have rocked the firm.