AZB and Clifford Chance tie the knot

The world’s largest law firm Clifford Chance and leading Indian firm AZB & Partners on 14 January announced an agreement “to offer their combined experience to both Indian and international clients” through reciprocal referrals and expertise sharing.

While awaiting legislative change in India that is widely anticipated to one day permit foreign law firms to operate there under their own auspices, major international firms and Indian firms have used reciprocal arrangements, memoranda of understanding and similar structures to establish working relationships.

In the tie-up announcement, Clifford Chance senior partner Stuart Popham noted: “It is an increasing challenge for both Indian and international clients seeking cross-border advice that they still have to look outside the country to access the requisite experience, resources and expertise. This arrangement will allow our two firms to offer the best possible service within the current regulatory restrictions.”