Partners finalize operating agreement for upcoming combination of Harris Beach, Murtha Cullina

ROCHESTER, N.Y. — The partners in Rochester–based Harris Beach PLLC and Murtha Cullina LLP on Tuesday have approved an operating agreement that will govern the upcoming combined firm of Harris Beach Murtha. Harris Beach has offices in Syracuse, Ithaca, and other locations in New York. Murtha Cullina has offices in Connecticut, Massachusetts, and White Plains in Westchester County. The firms announced their intent to combine in May and will operate as one firm beginning Jan. 1, 2025. The operating agreement will “create a regional legal powerhouse,” the announcement contends. Harris Beach Murtha will have more than 250 attorneys across 16 offices in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, and the District of Columbia. “The overwhelming vote in favor of the Operating Agreement is a powerful testament to the strength of this combination. I am delighted with the firms’ continued progress toward a successful combination and the enhanced capabilities Harris Beach Murtha will offer our clients,” Chris Jagel, CEO of Harris Beach, said in the announcement. “Together, we will deliver expanded, innovative services to an extended geographical footprint that will support our clients’ unique needs.” Harris Beach and Murtha Cullina will continue integration efforts while they work together toward completion of all necessary reviews and closing conditions. The firms will continue to operate as separate, independent entities until the operating agreement takes effect on Jan. 1. Until then, Jagel and Andy Corea, managing partner of Murtha Cullina, will co-lead an interim advisory committee ensuring clients continue to receive high-quality, focused services throughout this process.