Joining Firms Expand Capabilities in Southeast


March 1, 2007

RALEIGH, N.C. and RICHMOND, Va.– Williams Mullen, Virginia's third largest law firm, and Maupin Taylor, P.A., of North Carolina announced today that they have merged.

The new firm is now one of the largest in the Southeast with 300 attorneys, and staff combined is 700 employees. The firm's offices are located in Raleigh, Research Triangle Park and Wilmington, N.C.; Charlottesville, Newport News, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Richmond, Tysons Corner, and Virginia Beach Va.; Washington, D.C.; and London.

"We are very pleased to move forward with this strategic merger," said Joey Smith, chairman and CEO of Williams Mullen. "It is a key step toward our goal to offer additional capabilities and resources to our clients and provides the necessary geographic footprint to differentiate ourselves as a regional firm."

The name of the firm remains Williams Mullen, although North Carolina offices will operate under the name Williams Mullen Maupin Taylor for a transition period. Joey Smith is continuing as chairman and CEO of the merged entity.

Both are full-service law firms providing legal advice in areas such as labor and employment, corporate finance and securities, litigation, tax, government relations and more for clients in industries such as financial services, health care, transportation, technology, insurance, and real estate and development. Williams Mullen and Maupin Taylor attorneys have also served as state and local judges, state legislators, as well as Virginia and North Carolina bar association officials.

In addition to their similar practice areas, Williams Mullen and Maupin Taylor share a history of strong community involvement. Attorneys at each firm are encouraged to serve their communities, beyond the practice of law. Both firms participate in their area United Way campaigns and support numerous business and community organizations. Williams Mullen attorneys and staff hold leadership positions on the boards and committees of a wide array of non-profit organizations and colleges and universities. They also maintain their own funding entity, the Williams Mullen Charitable Foundation.


For more information, please contact:

Jessica Haese
Two James Center
1021 East Cary Street
Richmond, VA 23219
Phone: (804) 783-6527
Fax: (804) 783-6507
jhaese@williamsmullen.com