Dionne & Gass LLP, a Boston law firm specializing in real estate, commercial finance and business matters, is combining its operations with Saul Ewing LLP, a Philadelphia-based law firm with nine offices on the East Coast.

The merger, which will become effective July 1, will turn Dionne & Gass into the new Boston office of Saul Ewing, according to a statement. The firm will continue operations at its current location at 131 Dartmouth St.

"This is a classic win-win," said Dionne & Gass Partner Richard Gass. "Saul Ewing and Dionne & Gass share a reputation for excellence in the practice of law and a strong commitment to exemplary client service."

Gass will serve as managing partner of Saul Ewing’s Boston office. Sally E. Michael will become vice managing partner of the office.

"This is a great opportunity for our firm and for our clients," said Saul Ewing Managing Partner David S. Antzis. "Boston is a natural fit for us."

Dionne & Gass lawyers Dana Lanzillo, Don Lussier and Joanne Robbins will also join Saul Ewing as partners. Jim Shulman will join Saul Ewing as special counsel and Gabriel Safar will join as an associate. All of the attorneys will be members of Saul Ewing’s project and resource development department and real estate practice group, according to a statement.

Richard Dionne, one of the founders of Dionne & Gass, will not be joining Saul Ewing in order to pursue other business opportunities. However, he will sublease an office at the current location.

"I think this is a great fit in every way," said Dionne. "I have no doubt our respective clients will realize immediate benefits from this combination."