Matheson has been ranked number one in The Lawyer EMEA European 100 2026, topping the list of the continent’s leading independent law firms.
This year’s ranking introduces a revised methodology, assessing firms across a broader set of measures including growth, productivity and the strength of their talent base, rather than scale alone.
For Matheson, this reflects sustained performance over a prolonged period and a deliberate approach to how the firm is structured and operates – encompassing the work it undertakes, its delivery model, and team design.
This recognition is grounded in the trust placed in Matheson by clients on sophisticated, business-critical mandates, and the judgement and commitment of our people in delivering them.
It also highlights the strength of the Irish market. Ireland has become a key gateway for international investment, particularly from the US, with work that is increasingly complex and global in scope.
Against this highly competitive backdrop, seven Irish law firms are represented in the European 100 and two, including Matheson, rank in the top tier. This reflects both the calibre of law firms operating in Ireland and the significance of the market they serve.
Commenting on the ranking, Managing Partner, Darren Maher, said:
“We are pleased to be recognised in the first year of this new methodology. The new methodology captures how a firm is run — it is not just about scale, it is about the sectors you target, the clients you work with and how you deliver that work. We have been very deliberate on these points for a long time, and our success as a firm follows from that consistency.
We are very grateful for the trust our clients place in us and the ongoing commitment of our colleagues across the firm. We remain focused on delivering innovative, high-quality legal advice and on creating long-term value for our clients.”
