Partners at Allen & Overy and Shearman & Sterling have given their approval to the merger of the two firms, paving the way for a completed tie-up in 2024. The final tally showed a 99% approval rate, according to a firm spokesperson.

"This is a historic moment for both firms and our profession," Wim Dejonghe, senior partner at Allen & Overy, said in a statement. "We are delighted that our partners have voted so resoundingly in favor of this merger, which is a transformational step for the legal industry. We have long admired Shearman & Sterling for its outstanding reputation, talent and client base, and we are confident that together we will create a truly exceptional global firm that will serve our clients' needs in an increasingly complex and dynamic world."