Messerli Kramer and Gries Lenhardt Allen Announce Strategic Combination

Recent News
Posted Jan 12, 2026

CONTACT: Joshua Hasko
jhasko@messerlikramer.com
612.672.3665

MINNEAPOLIS, MN — JANUARY 12, 2026 — Messerli Kramer (“MK”) and Gries Lenhardt Allen (“GLA”) today announced that the two firms have combined under the Messerli Kramer name, creating an expanded and strategically aligned law firm designed to deliver increased capabilities, deeper bench strength, and enhanced client service across a broad range of practice areas.

The combination brings together two firms with complementary strengths, shared values, and a long-standing commitment to practical, results-driven legal counsel. By aligning their talent, experience, and resources, the combined firm is positioned to better serve clients both locally and nationally, and the addition of GLA’s St. Michael and Blaine offices provides MK with valuable regional nerve-centers as well.

“We’re thrilled about what this combination represents for our alignment with clients and our ambition in the market,” said Joshua Hasko, President and shareholder at MK. “Both firms share a client-first mindset, a commitment to collaboration, and a culture that values long-term relationships. Together, we are stronger, more versatile, and better equipped to meet the evolving needs of our clients.”

The combined firm now features 65 attorneys and positions MK as one of the largest Minnesota-headquartered law firms, serving clients across existing practice areas while now expanding service offerings and industry depth. Clients can expect continuity in their legal teams, along with access to a broader range of attorneys and resources.

“This was not about scale for scale’s sake,” said Nate Allen, shareholder and GLA’s managing partner prior to the combination. “It was about finding a firm that shared our approach to the practice of law: thoughtful, responsive, and grounded in trust. Messerli Kramer brings a depth of experience and infrastructure that complements our team exceptionally well, and as GLA continued to expand, we needed a strategic partner that could allow us to meet the evolving needs of an expanding client base.”

Leadership from both firms collaborated closely throughout the process to ensure a seamless integration for clients, attorneys, and staff. The combination reflects a shared vision for sustainable growth while preserving the entrepreneurial and collegial culture that has defined each firm.

“This is a true partnership,” said Brett Larson, Minneapolis Division Head and shareholder at MK. “We approached this deal with mutual respect and a clear focus on how we could elevate the experience for our clients and our people. The result is a firm that is greater than the sum of its parts, without losing the identity or values that brought us here.”

The combined firm will operate under the Messerli Kramer name and will continue to build on both firms’ legacies of excellence, integrity, and client service.

About Messerli Kramer

Founded in 1965, Messerli Kramer is one of the most well-respected law firms in Minnesota, with offices in Minneapolis, St. Paul, Plymouth, St. Michael, and Blaine, along with satellite offices across the country. We have a well-earned reputation within the business community of providing sound, reasoned and comprehensive legal advice. With an emphasis on building lasting relationships with our clients, our professionals take the time to listen and understand their legal issues within the larger framework of their business as a whole. Known for our dedication and responsiveness, our attorneys and staff are focused on finding pragmatic solutions and producing remarkable results for our clients.