ATL: Blank Rome May Lay Off Up to 50 Associates

Above the Law, always the first to hear about law firm layoffs, informs the blogosphere that Philadelphia’s Blank Rome is kicking at least 12 associates to the curb:

As we continue to focus on helping our clients manage through these challenging economic times, and in order to position the Firm for continued success in 2009, it is important that we take the necessary steps to adjust our attorney and staff complements in the context of our clients’ current and anticipated needs. These are purely economic decisions – this is a group of talented attorneys and staff who have made valuable contributions to our Firm.

Our tipsters report that at least 12 associates and staff have been let go so far. But:

Also, there is an unconfirmed report that when this ends the total of layoffs will be 50. Good lord.

Blank Rome LLP is the 84th largest law firm in the US according to the AmLaw 100. It employs about 500 at its eight offices in the US and Kong Kong.

If you know anything about layoffs at Blank Rome, or about layoffs in general, or about anything at all, let us know!