‘No Layoffs’ at WilmerHale, But Firm Asks Some Lawyers to Find New Jobs

They're not layoffs, Wilmer Cutler Pickering Hale and Dorr insists. But some firm lawyers are being urged to look for work elsewhere, based in part to a drop-off in legal work because of the dismal economy.

Under a new career advancement program implemented last year, an unspecified number of associates and counsel are being told they should pursue other career opportunities if they appear unlikely to advance at WilmerHale. However, these suggestions don't qualify as layoffs, co-managing partner William Perlstein tells the Blog of Legal Times, because those so advised will still have employment until this fall.

“There is certainly an economic component in situations where you have someone who is doing OK and who would otherwise be kept. But with less work, and if they’re not making the progress they should, they are being told they should start looking for another position,” he tells the BLT. “Nobody is being handed a check and told that they have to leave tomorrow."

Similarly, the firm insists in a written statement provided to Above the Law that no layoffs have been made and none are expected.

"That said, many of our clients have been adversely affected by the recession and we therefore have seen a decline in demand for legal services in some practice areas," the statement continues. "This does have consequences for how we manage attorneys, and economic considerations and demand for services do affect the career guidance we give lawyers, but we have not conducted layoffs and have no plans to do so."