Biglaw Modernization Leads To Layoffs

Is 'care' the same as 'generous severance package'?

It’s getting to be a familiar tale: law firms couching staff layoffs in terms of moving forward or in this specific case, “implementing our strategic plan, which focuses on proactively modernizing the way we run our firm.” Today, we’ve learned Stoel Rives is laying off 17 staff members across its offices.

Though in a firm wide email, managing partner James Torgerson notes the layoffs only account for 2.1 percent of the firm’s workforce, that seems like cold comfort for those who find themselves without a job. But hey, the firm assures everyone the decision was made with “care.” Let’s hope Stoel defines “care” as “generous severance package.”

Also of note, Torgerson announced an outsourcing agreement with legal support vendor DTI, which will take over the reception, IT help desk, catering, and records departments:

In addition, we have concluded that fully outsourcing certain services is necessary as part of our practice modernization process. As a result, we are partnering with DTI, a company we believe can provide us with modern business methods, training programs, best practices, and cost efficiencies. DTI is one of the most experienced legal process outsourcing service providers. It has more than 100 local offices in over 50 regions and 7,000 employees globally. DTI currently supports 27% of AmLaw 150 firms and 50% of the ten largest law firms in the country with onsite management services.

Over the next several months, DTI will take over the business services role that RICOH has been performing, and also will staff Reception, IT Concierge, Catering, and Records. The affected departments will work closely with DTI during the transition.

Here’s hoping all those laid off find new positions quickly.

You can read the full email from the managing partner on the next page.


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headshotKathryn Rubino is an editor at Above the Law. AtL tipsters are the best, so please connect with her. Feel free to email her with any tips, questions, or comments and follow her on Twitter (@Kathryn1).

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