Markulf Behrendt, former Global Head of Employment at A&O Shearman, has launched in Mai 2026 Behrendt Legal Studio, a Hamburg-based employment law boutique built around an AI-native operating model and a fixed-fee approach. The former Big Law partner is betting on a leaner structure, direct senior-level involvement and technology to challenge established law firm economics.
The new firm, founded in May 2026, focuses on employer-side employment law, advising multinational groups, listed companies and mid-sized businesses on complex and cross-border workforce matters.
Behrendt spent more than two decades in international law firms, building a reputation in employment law and ultimately heading A&O Shearman’s global employment practice.
His latest move takes him in a different direction. Rather than joining another international platform or building a traditional partner-led boutique, Behrendt has opted for a technology-driven structure designed from the outset around artificial intelligence.
The firm describes itself as “AI-native”, meaning that AI is embedded into its workflows rather than added to an established law firm infrastructure. The technology is used to support processes including M&A due diligence, contract drafting and risk assessments, while strategic decisions and client advice remain under senior lawyer supervision.
The move comes as established law firms across the European market continue to invest heavily...
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