Biglaw

Former Biglaw Chair Died By Suicide, Inquest Reveals

He's remembered as an 'inspirational leader.'

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Paul Rawlinson

Back in 2018, Baker McKenzie then-Global Chair, Paul Rawlinson, took a temporary leave from the firm due to “exhaustion.” The following year, Rawlinson passed away, though not many details were known about his death at that time. Now we’ve learned that he died by suicide.

Law.com is reporting that during a virtual inquest held yesterday by the Surrey Coroner’s Court in the U.K., it was revealed Rawlinson died by suicide. They also heard that Rawlinson was suffering an “acute depressive illness,” and was undergoing treatment at a Swiss rehabilitation center, Kusnacht Practice, at the time of his death.

The firm made the following statement:

“Paul’s sudden death in April 2019 was a tragedy, most obviously for his family, but also for Baker McKenzie, where he had been a long serving partner and inspirational leader in various roles. He was a man of enormous charisma and energy,” Baker McKenzie said in a statement Wednesday. “The circumstances surrounding Paul’s death are a private matter for his family and we continue to request appropriate respect for that. As painful as events have been for his many friends and colleagues in the firm, our thoughts throughout have been with Paul’s wife and children, and will continue to be, as they move forward.”

These details of Rawlinson’s death provide a poignant reminder of the mental health issues that often run rampant in Biglaw. If you or someone you know is depressed and in need help, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255) or a lawyer assistance program in your state.

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headshotKathryn Rubino is a Senior Editor at Above the Law, and host of The Jabot podcast. 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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