BigLaw firm confirms layoffs, doesn't say whether lawyers are affected
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Winston & Strawn has confirmed staff layoffs in connection with its formation of a new resource center that will deliver professional support services to lawyers and clients around the clock.
Winston & Strawn did not say how staff members were affected or whether associates were also laid off, Above the Law reports.
The blog reached out to Winston & Strawn after receiving tipster reports that “a hefty chunk” of associates had been laid off and nearly all secretarial positions had been eliminated.
The new group is called the Winston Resource Center, and it was created “in response to a fundamental shift across the legal industry in how clients and lawyers interact,” according to the statement obtained by Above the Law.
Winston’s statement said its new virtual professional services model led to “elimination of certain roles.” Some affected employees will be transitioned to “newly created roles” at the firm, and some will be offered early retirement, the statement said.
Here is Winston & Strawn’s full statement to Above the Law:
“In response to a fundamental shift across the legal industry in how clients and lawyers interact, Winston & Strawn is forming the Winston Resource Center, a virtual, cross-functional group that will provide 24/7 professional support services for attorneys and clients. This innovative restructuring addresses evolving work practices while improving operating efficiencies. As this model includes an elimination of certain roles, Winston will assist our valued, dedicated and appreciated employees either by transitioning them into newly created roles at the firm, offering early retirement opportunities or providing career counseling.”
