Chicago’s Schiff Hardin has announced it is taking steps to cut costs, in the hope of avoiding further layoffs.
From the memo, signed by managing partner Ronald S. Safer:
I know you have read with interest, and undoubtedly some trepidation, the news of law
firms slashing personnel, lawyers and staff alike. We have no intention of following that lead…… We will curtail our summer associate program by shortening it to 8 weeks and making the program more content focused. We will delay the start date for our Fall Associates to January 1, 2010…
…we will eliminate this year’s Staff Appreciation Luncheon and Picnic. We will not have Holiday Parties this year. Similarly, the Attorney Dinner Dance will not be held this year. The Equity Partners’ Retreat will be replaced by a business meeting which will be held in Chicago. We will, however, hold our Service Recognition Luncheon for staff again this year…
… Associates, like Partners and Of Counsel Attorneys, will be responsible for 100% of the premium for health and disability insurance. We will continue to share this cost with members of our staff…
Finally, we are offering a Voluntary Early Retirement Option…
Thank you for your consideration and understanding.
The firm laid off some administrative staff in February.
Schiff Hardin employs more than 400 attorneys, practicing out of seven offices nationwide.