Charlesbank Invests in Newly Formed WSHB Support Services

Charlesbank Capital Partners has made a strategic investment in WSHB Support Services, a newly established management services organisation supporting US law firm Wood Smith Henning & Berman (WSHB). The investment will support the firm's expansion and technology development while preserving its independence.

Announced on 19 October 2026, the transaction establishes a separate organisation responsible for providing non-legal operational infrastructure to WSHB. The law firm's attorneys will retain sole authority over legal practice and client matters. Financial terms were not disclosed.

WSHB operates across 23 US states, with more than 550 attorneys working from 43 offices. Established in 1997, the firm represents insurers, self-insured corporations and institutional clients.

Daniel Berman, WSHB's executive chairman and co-founder, will become chief executive of WSHB Support Services. Stewart Reid will remain firmwide managing partner. Both will continue leading the law firm alongside co-founders Stephen Henning and Kevin Smith, with all four joining the board of the new organisation.

Charlesbank is a middle-market investment firm with experience in professional services and insurance services, sectors relevant to WSHB's operations and client base.

Deal Snapshot

Buyer / Parties: Charlesbank Capital Partners; Wood Smith Henning & Berman

Target: WSHB Support Services

Sector: Legal services / Professional services

Deal type: Strategic growth investment

Value: Undisclosed

Geography: United States

Identified advisers: Piper Sandler, Riverbrook Capital, Weil Gotshal & Manges, Kirkland & Ellis, Frankfurt Kurnit Klein + Selz, Gipson Hoffman & Pancione, Troutman Pepper Locke

Deal Rationale

The investment will allow WSHB to enter new geographic markets and develop its existing practice areas. Charlesbank's backing will also fund investment in artificial intelligence, data science and technology infrastructure. By placing operational functions within a separate management services organisation, WSHB can pursue these investments while its lawyers maintain control over legal work and client relationships.

Advisers to the Transaction

Charlesbank Capital Partners — Investor:

• Piper Sandler served as exclusive financial adviser.
• Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP served as legal adviser.
• Kirkland & Ellis LLP served as legal adviser.
• Frankfurt Kurnit Klein + Selz PC served as legal adviser.

Wood Smith Henning & Berman — Law Firm:

• Riverbrook Capital served as financial adviser.
• Gipson Hoffman & Pancione served as legal adviser.
• Troutman Pepper Locke LLP served as legal adviser.

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