Stricken Weil’s juniors in limbo

The City of London Law Society (CLLS) said yesterday that it is on standby to help UK trainees and junior lawyers potentially marooned by the looming collapse of venerable Wall Street firm Weil, Gotshal & Manges.

Dozens of solicitors and other workers at the US firm’s Fetter Lane, London office appear to be facing redundancy after Weil’s leaders recommended that partners vote to ‘pursue an orderly wind-down’ of the 95-year-old firm. The announcement follows a series of high-profile partner departures and failed merger talks. 

The Law Society is prepared to take calls from any trainee needing support. ‘We offer a range of support to our members, including pastoral care which can be accessed through the Law Society helpline,’ said a spokesperson. ‘There is also guidance available to trainees and our career clinic offers a free one-to-one 30-minute consultation with a legal career coach. We would encourage all trainees who are seeking further support to get in touch with us.’