Is Thelen Next?

What’s going to happen to Thelen? That is the question many are asking in the wake of Heller Ehrman’s untimely demise.

As we have previously reported, Thelen has not yet been able to merge with another firm, while suffering through a slew of partner defections. They’ve even canceled their 2009 summer program.

Today brings more bad news for Thelen. Pillsbury announced that they have acquired Thelen’s China practice group:

[A] group of approximately 20 attorneys, including partners Tom Shoesmith, Meg Utterback, Joe Tiano and Lou Bevilacqua, to be based in Pillsbury’s Shanghai, Washington, DC and San Francisco offices.

This may not be as crippling as losing a rainmaking IP practice group like Heller did. But the losses are adding up for Thelen.

Thelen’s attempt to quell the rumors, after the jump.


The firm has been relatively silent while Heller disintegrates. But a tipster sent us the following communication from Thelen chairman Steve O’Neal:

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From: O’Neal, Steve

Sent: Friday, September 26, 2008 4:19 PM

To: SF ATTORNEYS & STAFF

Subject: Have a Good Weekend

I understand the rumor mill is churning away and some big announcement is anticipated. Sorry to disappoint everyone. I appreciate that an information vacuum tends to be filled with inaccurate data. I am writing simply to let you know that we (the Office of the Chair, the Merger Committee, and the Partnership Council) are continuing to look at merger opportunities and at the continuation of our practice in our present configuration.

Now, some of you may ask: why am I sending out a memo that really does not provide news of any truly significant development. The answer is: because in the absence of this communication, who knows what crazy rumors might circulate. So, two final thoughts. First, all of us appreciate your efforts and loyalty. Second, have a good weekend, and we’ll see you all on Monday.

It’s a bit weird to receive an office-wide email wishing you a good weekend. But hey, at least everybody knew they still had a job to come back to on Monday.

Still, one of our tipsters was a tad unsettled by the unexpected communication:

A less reassuring reassurance would be hard to draft.

Do you think that O’Neal’s letter will stop the crazy rumor mill from churning away? Check the comments thread to find out.

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Pillsbury Expands International Corporate Capabilities with Thelen China Practice Acquisition [Pillsbury]

Earlier: Law Firm Merger Mania: Nixon & Thelen You Don’t Have To Go Home But You Can’t Stay Here

Musical Chairs: Picking on Thelen is the New Bloodsport