Fennemore Craig, a notable player in the Am Law 200 list, has announced its strategic expansion into the Texas legal market by merging with San Antonio-based labor and employment boutique, Schmoyer Reinhard. This move integrates all 11 attorneys from Schmoyer Reinhard into Fennemore’s growing team, expanding the firm's office count to 23 nationwide.

The merger is a significant part of Fennemore’s broader growth strategy, aimed at bolstering areas where the firm has seen slower development compared to its overall success. According to CEO James Goodnow, while Fennemore has cultivated a robust labor and employment sector, it has not expanded at the same pace as other practice areas. The integration with Schmoyer Reinhard is set to enhance this sector significantly.

Schmoyer Reinhard brings to the table not only a team of specialized attorneys but also a lucrative client base of large, nationwide corporations, making the merger a beneficial deal for both parties. Shannon Schmoyer expressed enthusiasm about the merger, emphasizing the synergy between the two firms' client service capabilities. Christine Reinhard, co-founder of the boutique, also highlighted the technological advantages that a larger firm like Fennemore can offer, particularly in the innovative and ethical use of AI in legal practices.

The decision to enter the Texas market is not arbitrary. Goodnow pointed out that Texas has been on their radar as a top expansion location due to its rapid growth and relatively lower saturation of Am Law 200 firms, especially in cities like San Antonio. This strategic move positions Fennemore to tap into a burgeoning market that promises substantial growth opportunities and legal challenges.

With this merger, Fennemore not only strengthens its labor and employment practice but also cements its status as a national contender in the legal arena, indicating that the firm’s ambition to grow and innovate continues to drive its strategic decisions. This expansion into Texas underscores Fennemore’s commitment to adapting and thriving in dynamic legal landscapes, aiming to serve a broader spectrum of clients with enhanced capabilities and reach.