Ober Kaler, Baker Donelson complete merger

Ober Kaler, one of Baltimore's largest law firms, has completed its merger with Tennessee-based Baker Donelson.

The combined law firm will operate under the Baker Donelson name, with 800 lawyers in 25 offices. Financial terms of the deal, which took effect Jan. 1, were not disclosed.

The merger, first announced in October, creates one of the largest health law practices in the country, according to the company.

Ober Kaler initiated the deal as a way to expand its geographic reach and the scope of its services, former CEO S. Craig Holden said in October.

"We are very proud to officially be part of Baker Donelson," said Holden, now a member of Baker Donelson's board, in a statement Tuesday. "We are focused now on collaborating with our clients and getting them integrated and aware of the additional resources this combination brings."

For Baker Donelson, the deal was an opportunity to strengthen its presence in the key health care markets of Baltimore and Washington, D.C.

The combined company employs 1,600 people, including more than 210 attorneys and support staff from Ober Kaler. The merger was not expected to result in lay-offs.

sarah.gantz@baltsun.com