Chicago-based Schiff Hardin, after declining revenue and lateral departures in recent years, is seeking a merger partner, according to several sources, including one who identified Washington, D.C.-based Arent Fox as a current suitor to Schiff. 

Two Chicago recruiters said it is widely known in the city’s legal circles that Schiff is pursuing discussions over possible combinations. Another source, a leader at a separate firm in D.C., indicated Schiff was speaking with Arent Fox, but it’s not clear how advanced the discussions are.