AmLaw100 firms Locke Lord and Edwards Wildman are merging effective Jan. 10, creating a top 50 firm with 1,000 lawyers in 23 offices.

This morning, we talked to Alan Levin, pictured, managing partner of 600-lawyer Boston-based Edwards Wildman. He'll be a vice-chair of the combined firm, to be called Locke Lord Edwards, along with Locke Lord's Dan Schlessinger and Bill Swanstrom. It'll be chaired by Jerry Clements. Alan tells us it's currently "all systems go" on integrating lawyers, discussing how to run practice groups, and managing logistical issues such as space needs. The two firms--both founded in the late 19th century--are "culturally very much alike," he says, including a practice-centric, rather than office-centric perspective.

With Jerry, above, at the helm, Locke Lord Edwards will be one of around 4% of law firms headed by women, according to the Washington Post. Alan tells us the two first talked years ago about a possible combination. Around May this year, he spoke to Jerry, found many similarities in their approach, and moved quickly. They're looking to grow in Europe, as well as in private equity, energy, IP, financial services and insurance. The firms plan to have a full partner retreat in April, and nearer on the horizon, employees are already planning to have holiday parties together.