Every law firm has felt the repercussions of losing a key Partner. Whether it is the feelings of betrayal, the hit to firm morale or the rumours that circulate within the industry, you can count on this event shaking a law firm to its core.

Add to this the complexity of key clients following that Partner to their new firm and you’ve got a situation that requires careful management and navigation. According to a LexisNexis legal insights blog, though there are elements of a departure you can’t control, there are elements you can manage when faced with this difficult situation. Here are the following five things at the top of the to-do list:

1. Nail Down Internal Communications First.

Take control of the narrative. Nothing is worse than the internal rumour mill. The news will spread like wildfire and the myriad of incorrect theories that will most definitely emerge will be difficult to quell or dispel.

Ensure the message is professional and cordial and provides a message that supports stability. As the article’s author says, something along the lines of “we thank her for her contributions to the firm and wish her nothing but the best in her new endeavor,” should suffice.”

2. Work on a Joint Communication Between the Partner and the Firm to Existing Clients.

While a departing partner is permitted to notify clients separately, it is highly recommended that a joint statement is issued as counselled by the ABA Standing Committee on Ethics and Professional Responsibility in a formal opinion issued in December 2019.

A client can certainly follow the partner to their next gig, but a joint statement can provide a more stable message and instill greater client confidence to avoid them jumping ship altogether.

3. Work with the Partner to Establish a Client Communication Strategy.

Working together to understand the nature of the relationship with each client and the client’s expectations can assist in formulating a strategy that helps support the client through the transition. Understanding this in detail also allows you to be prepared for a case where the client leaves with the Partner and implement a strategy to try to salvage the relationship with the firm or build a plan to fill the gap.

4. Prioritize Protecting Client Data.

Firms have an obligation to assure the ethical transition of client matters when lawyers elect to change firms. Ensuring the client’s records are organized, up-to-date and kept confidential will greatly minimize the risk to the firm.

5. Get Ahead of the Media.

Like your internal communication, it is key to control external messaging as much as possible. Rumours that paint the departure in a negative light can harm the reputation and brand of the firm.

Building a media strategy is key and should follow the same approach of professionalism and courtesy as the internal messaging.

There’s no doubt that this kind of transition can be complex. As a legal recruiting firm experienced at transitioning all levels of legal resources and entire practice groups, Lépine Talent can help you navigate these waters in a way that helps support your firm and your reputation.