Cadwalader set to cut staff from London office

Cadwalader Wickersham & Taft has confirmed that it is set to make redundancies in its London office following the walkout of seven partners last month.

The firm said three lawyers, three paralegals and 10 support staff are subject to the redundancy consultation.

A statement read: "Cadwalader Wickersham & Taft has today launched a redundancy consultation with certain employees in its London office, made up of both lawyers and support staff. We regret the potential loss of these talented professionals who have served the firm well. The firm remains committed to London and rebuilding the office."

The news comes as the firm reaches an amicable agreement with Paul Hastings concerning the defected partners, after Legal Week last month reported that the firm had issued the team with letters before action alleging that they had breached the confidence terms of their partnership deed.

As also reported by Legal Week, Paul Hastings could also have to take on more Cadwalader associates than originally anticipated under employment laws covered by the Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations (TUPE), but the firms declined to comment on the specifics of the agreement reached.

Cadwalader said: "Cadwalader and Paul Hastings are pleased to confirm that an amicable resolution has been agreed between them regarding Cadwalader personnel. The goal of both firms has been to recognise the interests of affected employees. The terms of the agreement reached are confidential and none of the parties will be commenting further."

The firm's former global managing partner Bob Link this month moved to London to take over the reigns and oversee the office's recovery.

The London departures came amidst a series of departures from Cadwalader's New York office last month, which included co-head of restructuring Bruce Zirinsky leaving for Greenberg Traurig.

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