How To Announce Law Firm Layoffs: A Suggested Template

What should news releases about law firm layoffs say? Well, we've seen so many versions in recent weeks -- some honest, some not so honest and many confusing -- that I thought this template would help those struggling to strike the right tone and balance in these tough times. This sample should be used as a guide to get you thinking about your own unique situation, so please don't copy anything here verbatim.

ABC Law Firm today announced that because of the continuing economic crisis, it had to lay off 10 associates in its Corporate and Real Estate practice groups and five administrative positions in recent days.

"We are sad whenever we have to let good people go and truly hope that there will be no more reductions in lawyers or staff," said managing partner John Doe. 

He said the firm offered all those let go generous severance packages, including a continuation of their health benefits for ___ months, and believes this will help them while they look for jobs elsewhere. The firm has also contracted with a leading career counseling and recruiting firm to ensure former employees have full access to job opportunities in the weeks and months ahead.

Doe also announced that the firm is implementing other cost reductions, including the elimination of its holiday party this year as well as its annual lawyer retreat planned for early 2009. Instead, the firm will host a small holiday party for underprivileged children in its offices on December 23. 

The firm is also drastically reducing the entertainment budgets for all partners and will defer bonus compensation for six months. It is also considering a plan making it mandatory for equity partners to contribute considerable capital into the firm for one year.

"We must find ways to further reduce costs in these uncertain times and we think these initial changes will position us better when the economy improves," Doe added. 

Doe noted that despite these necessary atorney reductions, the firm's other practice areas remained strong in profits and revenues, adding that he expects substantial growth this coming year in litigation and corporate bankruptcy work.

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What do you think would make a good press statement regarding law firm layoffs? Please comment.