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The Magic Circle isn’t dead yet – but it is facing some serious challenges

After a landmark report called for radical reform of the UK's elite legal set, insiders say the fight with the US isn't over yet

By James Booth
'To suggest it’s the end of the Magic Circle or they can’t play at the top table is absolute nonsense in my view'
'To suggest it’s the end of the Magic Circle or they can’t play at the top table is absolute nonsense in my view' Photo: Jason Alden/Getty Images

Reports of the Magic Circle's death have been greatly exaggerated.

That is according to partners, in-house lawyers, legal consultants and recruiters who argue that the UK’s legal elite are here to stay — while conceding they face serious challenges from their US rivals.

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