Simmons set to cut up to 69 jobs in London

The firm kicked off the 30-day review today (17 February) with up to 20 associates, 35 secretaries and 14 other business service and support staff at risk of redundancy, with the cuts affecting Simmons' capital markets, real estate and banking divisions.

Commenting on the review, Simmons managing partner Mark Dawkins told Legal Week: "We are responding to market conditions. The next 12 to 18 months will be very challenging for some areas of the firm - we have to align ourselves with what clients want efficiency-wise and we have to adjust to the changing world."

The consultation comes after the firm asked its March 2009 intake to consider deferring until 2010 due to the current economic climate.

The firm offered its 17 trainees the option of starting in 12 months time, with two trainees opting to take up the offer. The other 15 trainees will begin their training next month as agreed.

News of the Simmons consultation follows a number of similar staffing reviews across the legal industry during February.

DLA Piper recently launched its second consultation in just three months, with up to 140 jobs including 30 fee earners under threat.

Days before DLA's announcement (February 9) Lovells launched its own consultation which could see 94 London staff, including 18 fee earners, made redundant.

Simmons currently employs around 850 members of staff in London.

More news, deals and comment on Simmons & Simmons

Simmons & Simmons on the Legal Week Wiki