In response to the devastating wildfires currently sweeping through Southern California, numerous Biglaw firms have opted to close their physical offices in the region, transitioning to remote operations to ensure the safety of their staff and clients. The fires, particularly the Palisades Fire, which remains uncontained, have prompted this strategic shift among firms located in critical areas such as Los Angeles and Santa Monica.
Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe, facing a Level 2 evacuation warning, has decided to close its Los Angeles and Santa Monica offices. Thompson Hine, although not directly within the evacuation zone, also closed its Santa Monica office, allowing employees to work remotely. Their proactive approach underscores an emphasis on safety and business continuity, as stated by John Conkle, the Los Angeles partner in charge at Thompson Hine. The firm’s move to maintain operations remotely reflects a commitment to prioritizing the well-being of its workforce.
Other major firms, including Cooley and Goodwin Procter, are situated in areas under immediate threat or warnings. Cooley’s Santa Monica office is notably impacted by poor air quality conditions, prompting its temporary closure. Efforts to reach Goodwin Procter and Cozen O’Connor for comment on their operational strategies during this crisis were unsuccessful, leaving the status of their offices uncertain amid the escalating emergency.
This swift transition highlights the legal sector’s adaptability to natural disasters, drawing attention to the ongoing need for contingency planning in the face of environmental challenges. As reported, the orderly shift to remote work arrangements not only facilitates uninterrupted legal services but also reaffirms the firms’ dedication to safeguarding their personnel. For a more detailed account, view the full report from Above the Law.