Mackrell International

Providing what clients and member law firms need worldwide through four decades

Mackrell International is one of the most experienced and respected legal networks in the world, connecting 4,500 lawyers across the globe. It consists of highly responsive, high calibre, independent law firms with deep local knowledge and strong international links. Firms are agile, cost effective and full-service so have the deep and broad expertise in all key industry sectors to service client needs.

The network also has a dynamic, ground-breaking AI Insights Group, specialists in IP, data and privacy, environmental and energy, technology, fraud and white-collar, as well as aviation, aerospace and maritime law.

Shawn van Heerden of Ramsay Webber in South Africa (Chair) and Keith Heddle (Managing Director), based in the UK, are key contacts.

The Mackrell International Difference

What really makes the difference in Mackrell International’s cross-border work is the strength of our personal and professional relationships.  These are connections and understandings forged and strengthened for almost four decades that make all the difference to clients.  That and shared values of legal excellence, cultural appreciation, mutual support and collaboration between members.

Global in its reach, local in its influence and understanding, the network has provided diverse and distinctive clients with a full range of legal services and sound business advice - from international blue-chips and expanding, entrepreneurial businesses, to Family Offices and HNWIs – whatever a client needs, wherever and whenever they need it.

Before joining, members are vetted and must pass a 3-tier due-diligence process prior to selection.  Many firms are run by Partners from ‘Big Law’ and by high calibre lawyers who favour independence; they are dynamic and often top-rated law firms in their countries.  Firms commit to supporting one another and our clients, to the highest standards of ethics, to cultural openness and to promoting diversity in all its forms.

Looking to the future

The network is also developing the next generation of lawyers with an active and engaged Emerging Leader programme across all continents, which includes in-person meetings, specific training and coaching and even a ‘Lawyer Exchange’ initiative.

We also actively support and encouraging women in the legal profession, our business professionals and our Managing Partners - and we are constantly evolving and adapting to tackle the ever-changing legal and business challenges of the 21st century.  Rather than just run Practice Groups, we also focus on Sector specialisations and insight groups, and smaller geographical and niche meetings where our members can really connect and collaborate.

Furthermore, we run a regular value-added and thought-leadership programme, bringing external experts and consultants to share insights on key themes like law firm management and optimisation, business development, recruitment and retention, people skills, resilience and AI.  This supports members’ growth and their ability as firms to manage the complex challenges of today.

The network continues to evolve, grow and connect its people and its clients as never before for the benefit of all.  For both fellow law firms and businesses seeking trusted, local and cross-border legal counsel (with a global mindset), Mackrell International may be just what you’re looking for.

Number of countries: 60

Number of jurisdictions: 95

Number of member firms: 92

Number of practice groups: 31

Number of lawyers: 4,500

Languages: All languages; English primary language.

Primary Practice Areas & Sector or Insight Groups:

• Antitrust & Competition
• Arbitration & Mediation
• AI - Artificial Intelligence
• Aviation, Aerospace & Defence
• Banking & Finance (including FinTech)
• Bankruptcy & Insolvency
• Blockchain & Digital Assets
• Cannabis & CBD
• Construction
• Employment
• Energy & Natural Resources
• Environmental
• Estates & Trusts
• Family
• Global Privacy & Data Protection
• Hospitality, Travel & Tourism
• Immigration
• Insurance
• Intellectual Property
• Litigation
• Maritime
• Mergers & Acquisitions
• Mining
• Real Estate
• Regulatory
• Securities Enforcement & Investigation
• Space
• Sports
• Tax
• Technology
• White Collar
• Worker’s Compensation