Two of the most recognizable law firms involved in public policy combined yesterday, as Washington, D.C.-based Patton Boggs LLP acquired the Breaux-Lott Leadership Group.

Patton Boggs has played a key role in every major piece of legislation and regulatory decision for nearly half a century, while the Breaux-Lott Leadership Group was one of the nation’s fastest growing lobbying boutiques.

“This acquisition is a strategic coup and a cornerstone for our bipartisan growth,” said Thomas Hale Boggs Jr., chairman of Patton Boggs.

Now serving as special senior counsel, former Louisiana Democratic Sen. John Breaux and former Senate Majority Leader Trent Lott, R-Mississippi, will work from Patton Boggs’ Washington office, along with their sons John Breaux Jr. and Chester Trent Lott, three public policy advisers, and three staff members.

“We will continue to provide boutique-level personal attention to our clients with the added benefit of the wide-ranging policy, legal, and business services that only Patton Boggs can provide,” said Breaux.

This acquisition is the latest growth in a series of strategic additions by Patton Boggs during the past year, including the appointment of former FCC Chairman Kevin Martin; Suedeen Kelly, a former commissioner with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission; and Dick Thompson, a veteran in the pharmaceutical and food and drug sectors.