Take select handful into confidence to get their opinion. Rest of set asked, sworn to secrecy. Senior clerks brought in at this time. While heads of chambers, treasurers and senior clerks have access to who earns what, this information is not specifically looked at. Clients are not researched at this point - would lose secrecy.
Full chambers vote.
Critical path mapped out, setting out realistic completion date and everything that needs to be done before final merger can take place. Chambers finance committee starts forming new way to charge rent based on agreed criteria. Clients and press informed, launch party arranged, information sent out.