The 10-year marriage between Linklaters and Allen & Gledhill seems to be under threat after Allen & Overy revealed it had entered into “preliminary talks” with the Singaporean firm over a possible joint law venture (JLV).

“The strategic intent behind the talks is to establish whether a combination is possible which would enhance the market leading positions of both Allen & Overy and Allen & Gledhill in the Asia Pacific region and enhance Singapore’s position as a regional hub for high value legal services,” an official statement released by Allen & Overy said.

Allen & Gledhill’s JLV with Linklaters was formed shortly after the Singapore government introduced the scheme in 2000, well before QFLPs were allowed.  Allen & Overy was previously in a JLV with local firm Shook Lin & Bok. ALB

Other related stories:

• Watson Farley launches joint law venture with Singapore firm
• Singapore: JLV to give Duane Morris 'credible' presence in Singapore