Mallesons formalises split from King & Wood

The firm announced the beginning of its “new era” operating in Australia and Singapore

Mallesons formalises split from King & Wood

Mallesons has formalised its split from King & Wood, announcing the start of its “new era” today 30 March.

The firm will be operating as an independent firm in Australia and Singapore.

“We are grateful for the past 14 years in partnership with King & Wood and we wish them all the best for their future. This is an exciting new chapter for both firms”, said chair David Friedlander. “For us, as we move forward as Mallesons we have clarity and confidence in our future direction. We look forward to building on our 200 year history with a new strategic focus as an independent firm that offers agility and ingenuity when it matters most”.

Mallesons and King & Wood first announced the demerging in December 2025. They had partnered for 14 years, according to the AFR. King & Wood will concentrate on the China market, taking with it the Hong Kong, Japan and New York offices.

CEP Renae Lattey said in a statement published by the AFR that the split would make Mallesons the sole top-tier independent firm based in Australia. The firm’s roster currently consists of more than 1,200 lawyers across Australia and Singapore.

Lattey was reappointed CEP in September 2025.