Weil’s top lawyers are exploring new opportunities at rival firms, following the US law firm’s shock announcement to wind down. Ramona Nee, a private equity specialist, is in talks with Kirkland & Ellis, potentially bringing over 40 colleagues.
The move is part of a larger exodus of senior talent from Weil, with other high-profile departures to firms like Cravath, Swaine & Moore and Sullivan & Cromwell. Meanwhile, Gibson Dunn is reportedly preparing to welcome a group from Weil’s private funds practice, with almost 40 lawyers potentially making the switch.
It’s still not confirmed if Weil’s trainees will be part of any transfers to Kirkland or Gibson Dunn. Since the firm takes on about 15 new recruits annually in London, roughly 30 current trainees now face an uncertain future regarding their training commitments.
The upcoming shutdown has also left many students who’ve already committed to joining in later years in limbo. The City of London Law Society has promised to assist those impacted, especially focusing on trainees and junior attorneys.
This shift in circumstances highlights the stark contrast at Weil, where senior partners earn massive profits—averaging about £3.6 million each. Though the financial details of the reported relocations are undisclosed, the partners involved are reportedly being courted by some of the most prestigious US law firms.
Colin Passmore, chairman of the City of London Law Society, emphasized that the group’s top priority is the entire Weil team in London, particularly the trainees and junior lawyers who are naturally worried about how these changes will shape their professional paths.
Weil announced last week that its management committee had recommended an orderly wind-down, bringing months of senior departures, unsuccessful merger discussions, and leadership uncertainty to a head. The New York-founded firm has around 1,200 lawyers globally and has been in business for more than 90 years.
The firm’s partners will soon vote on the proposal, with assurances that staff support will continue during the transition. City office associates have been given a 90-day severance package before the expected closure on December 31, while the firm will maintain assistance for employees throughout this period.
