The match would considerably strengthen their fighting power by bringing together the mainly Europe-and Middle East-based SJ Berwin with King & Wood's offices in China, Hong Kong and Australia. Both sides are working towards voting deadlines that extend until the end of July. 'Market sources have suggested the deal faces the most resistance in Australia,' says a report in Legal Week. Although the advantages of geographical coverage are obvious, nothing can be taken for granted. The Mallesons side of King & Wood Mallesons has previously discussed merger prospects with both Linklaters and Clifford Chance.