Nationwide Layoff Watch: Morrison & Foerster Suffers Significant Layoffs (53 Lawyers, 148 Staffers)

Earlier today, we learned that a number of associates have been let go from Morrison & Foerster. According to a firm-wide memo that was just released, 53 associates have been laid off across all MoFo offices. We also understand that 148 staff members were let go.

The firm just confirmed the reports to ATL:

Morrison & Foerster has reduced its legal and non-legal staffing in its U.S. offices to align our firm with client needs in this extraordinary economic downturn. We notified 53 attorneys and 148 staff of the termination of their employment. These decisions are exceedingly painful, but necessary to assure that we address the current economic challenge from a position of financial conservatism and strength.

Tipsters in L.A. report that 13 associates were let go from that office. Our New York sources say that 12 associates were let go in New York City. We understand that all class years were affected, including first years.

“I will be fine,” said one affected associate. “But it’s a sad day for people here.”

MoFo had remained relatively quiet during these times of legal industry upheaval. But the firm did suffer partner defections from their D.C. office earlier this week.

No firm is immune to the 2009 market crisis. And it’s still only January.

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News of the layoffs was first published by Legal Pad (while we held our post to give the firm a chance to issue a full statement). Read the firm’s full statement, after the jump.


MORRISON & FOERSTER — MEMORANDUM — LAYOFFS

Morrison & Foerster has reduced its legal and non-legal staffing in its U.S. offices to align our firm with client needs in this extraordinary economic downturn. We notified 53 attorneys and 148 staff of the termination of their employment. These decisions are exceedingly painful, but necessary to assure that we address the current economic challenge from a position of financial conservatism and strength. Notwithstanding the difficult steps we are taking today, the state of the firm is strong and we are confident about our future. Our deep bench of legal talent, geographic and practice diversity and healthy balance sheet continue to serve us well and enable the firm to compete effectively. We remain committed to serving our clients efficiently while investing strategically in the development of the firm.

Those affected are eligible for severance pay and health care benefits. We deeply appreciate the dedicated and valuable contributions these individuals have brought to our clients and the Firm.

MoFo is Dropping the Axe [Legal Pad]

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Earlier: Musical Chairs: Goodwin Procter’s Gains or MoFo’s Losses?

Prior ATL coverage of law firm layoffs